It’s that time of year when our clients start dreaming about their outdoor spaces ... and we have some great ideas for you all! This past year, outdoor spaces were more important than ever -- and moving forward, we want to continue to encourage you to create an outdoor space that is an extension of your home. Carry the vibe you have inside outdoors! Today we want to share some inspiring images and speak to what makes our hearts sing when designing spaces such as these. And stay tuned, because we have some fun projects we can’t wait to share as they near completion. 

Please remember, we are experiencing longer than normal lead times across the board with all our vendors! Plan now so you can have everything you need in time for the summer months. We’d love for you to reach out at hello@designbarbend.com if you need help putting together a furniture plan for an outdoor space. It makes us happy! :)

PRO TIP: Remember to treat your outdoor space just like you would your inside spaces! No more buying a “set” that all matches. Gone are the days of walking into a showroom and buying the first set you see on display! It’s all about curating pieces that create a cohesive look and feel without being matchy matchy. Our goal is to mix and match pieces to create the same character and charm as inside your home.

ACCENT CHAIRS

Accent chairs are a great way to add character to a pre-existing set of outdoor furniture. Maybe you already have a sofa or sectional but you just want to freshen the look by adding a pair of accent chairs to your seating area? It will make all the difference … trust us! You don’t have to buy all NEW for a fresh look.

• PRO TIP: Don’t be afraid to mix different materials when planning your outdoor layout. In fact, it will be more interesting if you do! For instance, mix metals with textural woven pieces for more interest and character.

*** All of these below are unique and could be used indoors too … and we absolutely love them! We have some favorite lines we source for all of our outdoor spaces. Reach out hello@designbarbend.com for inquiries as most of these are available only to the trade.

COFFEE TABLES

Just like accent chairs, coffee tables can be mixed with existing outdoor pieces. Or, if you’re looking to buy all new but want to add something unexpected, this is a good option. We also love using ottomans as a small table, just like we do for indoor spaces. Add a pretty tray for your appetizers and drinks, or remove it when you just want to kick up your feet and relax in the sun!

• PRO TIP: If you have a large outdoor sectional, try adding a round coffee table. It makes for easier movement when the sectional is at full capacity. Also allows more room for legs and for adding accent tables for setting out cocktails, etc.

SOFAS & SECTIONALS

If you need a big daddy sectional, we love this one below. The rounded corner trend is definitely happening with furniture these days -- why not carry it outside too? Sectionals are great when you have the space for a bigger piece, but we equally love a singular beautiful outdoor sofa and pair of chairs for smaller spaces.

• PRO TIP: The materials used with these textural and woven pieces are made for weathering outdoor conditions, but we still recommend covering or bringing in your furniture during cold, rainy Central Oregon winters.

LOUNGIN’

Ok, you know the vibe we’re going for here … loungin’ by a pool sipping on your favorite refreshing summer cocktail! Well, you don’t actually need a pool to create this vibe. Just add a couple of loungers (or this double lounger below) to a small patio where you want to create a personal space for relaxing with your loved ones.

DINING TABLES

Outdoor dining spaces are one of our favorites to design. Eating al fresco is so luxurious and beautiful on a warm summer night! Again, we know we sound like a broken record -- but don’t buy sets of dining tables and chairs! Add accent dining chairs to your table -- it’s just so much better :) We paired up below to give you some ideas!

• PRO TIP: Many times the same vendor will have pieces that coordinate and are made to be combined in various ways. We can help make suggestions on chairs or tables or both and how to combine them so you can create this layered but cohesive look.

ACCENTS

Accents, accents, accents ...  yep, accents! Did we get our point across?! This is for when you just want to refresh a space and not commit to new outdoor furniture, or do want to buy outdoor furniture and are not sure how to add the pieces to create your “room.” Accents such as planters and outdoor pillows really are the magic sauce. Here are just a few of our favorites that will help you complete a space. 

• PRO TIP: Group planters together to add interest in height and scale, and mix various deciduous plants with annuals.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Please don’t overlook your outside lighting! So many builders feel outdoor lighting is not important, but in reality it is a big deal. Upgrade to beautiful outdoor sconces on the side of your home, or add a hanging pendant to a covered patio space to add ambiance. 

BAR & COUNTER STOOLS

Cocktails anyone? We are absolutely OBSESSED with pass through windows like in this image. The idea of people sitting at an outdoor bar and chatting it up with friends & fam inside their kitchen while they prepare an outdoor dinner is so FUN! These bar or counter stools are perfect for this application, or anywhere you want to add some seating for sipping cocktails and entertaining.

OUTDOOR RUGS

Like for indoor spaces, rugs ground an outdoor space. So whether it’s your deck or patio, by adding a rug you immediately add warmth and define the space as a ROOM. We love these beauties because you can literally just hose them off! No need to worry about stains. 

• PRO TIP: We use some of these in kitchens as well, where kids and pets come into play. Perfect for catching spills and accidents while warming up the space. 

D|B OUTDOOR STYLE BOARD

(Insider tip- most of these items are not available on our online shoppe but that doesn’t mean we can’t get you pricing! If you are loving something on our style board or above, please inquire at hello@designbarbend.com)

THANK YOU FOR READING. HAPPY SUNDAY STYLE!

XO D|B