Inspiring Outdoors

Newsflash! Bend is moving away from the traditional ‘lodge look’ with its muted browns and greens, to a sleeker, more contemporary style, both in the home and out.

Complements Home Interior’s Patti Juber refrains from sighing in relief, but you can hear it in her voice.

“Most of my clients are moving away from understated neutrals to more trendy color choices,” she said. “Think white on white with a pop of chartreuse. Or, mix three to four patterns in navy blue.”

Whether you’re updating your backyard and deck or patio, or starting from scratch, using trending colors will add a fun and fresh look.

Patio World’s Paula Dutton agrees that this year’s colors are playful and punchy.

“Terra cotta and shades of orange are the colors of the season,” she said.

Add a splash of color with affordable accessories such as rugs, side tables, lanterns and pillows. Or if your budget allows, update your tables and seating to embrace the outdoor living-room concept—a trend which shows no signs of slowing.

To get started, think furniture versus ‘patio set.’ Glass-top and mesh tables have fallen out of favor, so choose wrought iron, aluminum, or wooden tables for a contemporary look. Replace metal-framed patio chairs with durable, woven-resin armchairs and sofas. Add upholstered ottomans for additional seating or stretching out on a gorgeous afternoon.

When you want a little less sun, Shade on Demand’s Dave Latimer suggests adding a pergola or lattice patio cover that lets you custom-tailor your exposure. In some models, a remote control tilts the louvers up to 160 degrees, shutting out sun, rain, or snow.

“Retractable solar screens or clear vinyl windows give you even more ability to climate control your backyard living space,” Latimer said. Or, add drapes to patio structures to block sun and wind in an elegant fashion.

Outdoor umbrellas provide shade while helping to define your dining area. When the sun sets, an umbrella with built-in LED or clip-on lights can lend a magical air to the evening. Further the mood by hanging strands of Edison lights, also known as party lights. Choose white lights with simple bulbs or whimsical lanterns, depending on your mood. Top tables with battery-operated candle lanterns to add warm and subtle indirect light.

Finally, lengthen your day with an outdoor fire pit or yard heater. Tabletop gas and propane fire pits allow guests to stay comfortable even if the temperature drops.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable update or a complete overhaul, here’s a list of products your backyard is asking for.