Ready, Set, Go Summer!

Longer days and warmer temperatures are calling my name. It’s time to prep the patio and porch for summer living in the great outdoors! From everything I’m seeing, the top trend continues to be outdoor furniture with an indoor look and the durability to withstand the elements. Isn’t this dining set, below handsome?

Photo Courtesy of SutherlandFurniture.com 

The aluminum frames, above, are upholstered with an all-season, synthetic woven fiber that is resistant to frost, heat, chlorine and fading in the sun, and the seats are wrapped in a canvas weave. The natural colors are so organic and soothing – oyster for the cushion and sand dollar for the rest – I love the way they quietly blend in with the environment. This dining set is comfortable, durable and handsome enough for special occasions, but casual enough for family cookouts.

Photo Courtesy of JanusetCie.com

Who knew that a high-backed arm chair could find a home in the great outdoors? This one does it with style, comfort and practicality. The frame is aluminum and the upholstery is a handwoven, man-made fiber with an outdoorsy, woven look. The delicate legs give this chair a breezy, summer profile. A book, a glass of wine…aaahhh!

Photo Courtesy of SoutherlandFurniture.com 

There’s no way this marble table is going to blow away in a strong wind! At a hefty 182 pounds, its bold C shape and richly veined pattern will make a memorable impression. It kind of reminds me of that old-school video game, Pac-Man. Munch, munch!

Photo Courtesy of BrownJordan.com 

This modern remake of the Hollywood Regency style, above, caught my eye. I like the graceful sweep of the arms and back legs in contrast with the squared-off elements. The cushions are removable, and the fabric comes in an amazing 70 different colors and patterns, from solids to stripes, checks and herringbone, so you can update the look whenever you get the urge. Sun, sun, here I come!

Photo Courtesy of SummerClassics.com 

Classic outdoor furniture styling hasn’t disappeared, but it has been updated. This minimalist pair of arm chairs features a fabric sling seat and back with marine grade, stainless steel frame and slow-growth teak accents inlaid into the arms. The teak injects is a warm, high-end look and allows us to pair these airy chairs with a variety of table options.

Photo Courtesy of BrownJordan.com 

If you like old-school, this mid-century arm chair is a must-have. The resilient, basket-weave fabric reminds me of badminton and barbecues in the back yard, and it comes in 22 colors!

Photo Courtesy of MrBrownLondon.com 

Is that a giant fastener? No! It’s actually an industrial-strength, cast-concrete table with an understated elegance and a not-so-subtle heft. I like the way the horizontal bands ringing the pedestal give it a sense of movement and some texture. Because it is simple and natural, we could pair that with a variety of chairs. Now I’m ready to grab a frosty glass of lemonade and a stack of magazines and head outside!