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With summer in full swing, it’s time to get your outdoor space ready for the season. But before you dive headfirst into revamping your patio or backyard, make sure you’re not making any furniture mistakes. From odd arrangements to improper exterior finishes, we’ve got the lowdown on the outdoor furniture mistakes you need to avoid to ensure your outdoor oasis is the envy of the neighborhood. So grab a cold drink, kick back on your weather-resistant cushions, and discover the right way to organize your deck, patio, or backyard this summer.
1. Poor quality furniture
“Be intentional with your furniture selection,” says interior designer Lindye Galloway. “When purchasing furniture, people often choose pieces that look nice, but are made from materials that end up wearing down over time due to weather and heavy use.” Instead, she recommends investing in high-quality furniture that will stand the test of time. Not only will it look better, but you’ll also be doing the environment a favor.
2. Choosing the wrong fabric
Have you ever overlooked the fine print on a label that says “keep out of direct sunlight” or “water resistant” – not waterproof? According to David Harris, design director at Andrew Martin, “one of the biggest mistakes you can make when decorating your outdoor space is choosing the wrong fabric for your furniture and accessories.” Not all fabrics are made for outdoor use, and many people find this out the hard way. “Thankfully, the days of slippery nylon cushions and covers are long gone. There are now a huge variety of luxurious, well-designed fabrics that can be used,” says Harris. “Outdoor fabrics and eco-digital prints perform incredibly well against light and fading, and can also withstand a shower or two.”
3. A furniture-first approach
Many people make the mistake of purchasing outdoor furniture first and then trying to tailor the space to their needs. Instead, Galloway suggests designing the space based on the experiences you want to have there. “Whether you want your backyard to be where you entertain guests or enjoy relaxing, once you visualize how you want to use the space, it will be much easier to select the right furniture,” she says. In other words, design your backyard with purpose and intention rather than on a whim.
4. Prioritize aesthetics over functionality
Another common mistake with outdoor furniture is overlooking functionality in favor of aesthetics. “While it’s tempting to prioritize looks, ensuring outdoor furniture is functional is crucial to creating a comfortable and practical space,” says Harris. She recommends opting for practical outdoor furniture that’s lightweight yet sturdy, easy to clean, move, and store properly when not in use.
5. There is not enough shade
Don’t be blinded by the sun. While we all like to make the most of the nice weather, creating cool, shaded spots is just as important. “Many outdoor spaces have plenty of lounging spots in the sun, but none for shade,” says Galloway. “I recommend incorporating umbrellas on the roof or positioning furniture around foliage to keep cool and create places to relax effortlessly.” Shaded areas are a must for outdoor dining (one of the best parts of summer!), and an awning or patio cover will give you and your guests a welcome, cool respite from the scorching sun.
6. Overlooking proportions
It’s easy to overlook proportions in an open outdoor space, but they’re just as important as they are indoors. “If your backyard is expansive, create multiple intentional arrangements that appear grander in scale,” says Galloway. “Similarly, if your outdoor space is smaller, choose proportions that allow for plenty of walking room and keep the area open and airy.” Consider how people move through the space, and always account for any chairs that are pulled out.
7. No focal point
Interior designers love creating a focal point in a room. Having a focal point can add visual interest and provide a central element to base our design decisions on, resulting in a beautiful, cohesive space. The same theory applies to your backyard. “Even outside, many people forget how important it is to ground the space,” says Galloway. “My favorite way to do this is by incorporating a rug.” In addition to grounding the space, a bold, colorful rug provides a cozy, homey feel and creates a focal point full of personality and style.
8. Contradiction between interior and exterior decoration
Do you think your home’s interior and backyard are two entirely separate spaces? If so, you might be thinking wrong. “At Andrew Martin, we view outdoor spaces as an extension of your interior aesthetic,” says Harris. “This approach has become popular in recent years with more and more types of products available for indoor and outdoor use, from rugs and cushions to furniture.” It extends your interior design style seamlessly from the inside to the outside, ensuring a seamless transition between both spaces. “Whether you opt for bold, vibrant colors or softer, subtler tones, choose a style that resonates with your home and your personality,” she says.
