BOSTON – Home furnishings and décor retailer Wayfair Professional has studied millions of customer searches to determine this year’s top outdoor trends.
While some trends are holding strong from last summer, like expanded outdoor kitchens, Wayfair said other trends are new for the season and will provide inspiration for those looking to elevate spaces.
The six trends for 2021 include:
Monochrome Metals – Searches for metal outdoor furniture nearly doubled this spring. People are looking for powder-coated finishes, matte finishes, galvanized metal, minimalism and clean lines.
“This simple, unassuming material is getting a makeover thanks to vibrant colors and textured finishes,” said Olivia Giacobbe, Wayfair interior designer. “We suggest playing up a single head-turning hue for a sleek, cohesive setup.”
Natural Wonders –Teak patio furniture search numbers were up nearly 65%, according to Wayfair statistics. Searches included warm beiges and browns along with jades and aquamarine along with stone, wicker, jute, and raw edges. “Warm earth tones and organic elements like wood, sisal, and stone can come together to create an open-air escape that’s as inviting as any living room,” said Eva Anderson, Wayfair interior designer.
Inside Out – Wayfair stats show that searched for outdoor sofas were up 84% along with consumers looking for stormy grays, teak, concrete, stone, wood paneling and clean glass. “After months of staying inside and becoming so accustomed to the amenities of our homes, the idea of lounging outside in a space that affords both style and comfort is truly ideal,” Anderson said.
Garden Escape – Searches for raised garden beds were up by 75% according to Wayfair, along with people looking for neutral colors, greenery, terracotta, galvanized metal and greenhouses. “Environmentally responsible gardens have been trending, and the addition of protective structures like sheds and greenhouses let these spaces stay in use all year long,” Giacobbe said.
Bright Urban Oasis – Able to work in even a small outdoor area, adding punches of color is gaining traction. Consumers are searching for color blocking, pattern mixing, bright planters, painted rattan and compact furniture. “Saturated hues and bold silhouettes lend lots of energy to even the tiniest patios,” said Billie Gage, Wayfair interior designer. “Compact pieces have more intention behind them, which makes for a functional and easy-to-customize space.”
Outdoor Kitchens – Wayfair stats show that searches for outdoor bar stools were up by 66%. Consumers also looked for subway tiles, teak, stainless steel, slatted furniture and built-in appliances. “An open-air kitchen is an opportunity to elevate the simple joy of alfresco dining and maximize time spent in nature,” Gage added.
Wayfair experts said this year, outdoor spaces continue to be redefined and transformed by adding all the style and amenities of the home’s interior with consumers looking to create beautiful multipurpose spaces for working, cooking, relaxing and connecting with nature.
