Outdoor design is definitely a trend on the rise.
Since it’s summer, one may argue it’s normal that everyone is talking about outdoor design. But there’s more to it.
It’s a fact that nature acts positively on our brain, bringing a soothing and regenerating effect. Which is what inspires the biophilic design approach.
But back to outdoor design...
Let’s explore how biophilia connects to the rise of outdoor design as a design trend.
Outdoor design becomes a trend
Looking at the latest interior design developments, it is clear that the industry is turning to nature as a source of inspiration, and not only to mimic natural shapes.
The healing effects of nature on our minds are being mentioned more and more often. And spending more time outdoors is an obvious strategy to benefit from them. Time spent outdoors gives our mind a break from the restless society we live in, helping us to preserve and improve our wellbeing on a daily basis.
This being the background, it comes without saying that the bland foldable tables & chairs that used to be called outdoor furniture are no longer enough!
So here comes the need for better outdoor designs.
Now more than ever, companies are focusing on outdoor furniture, expanding their existing catalogues or even creating dedicated outdoor collections when they didn’t have one. The objective is making outdoor spaces as well-designed as interiors, both in terms of beauty and functionality. This translates into high-performance fabrics that don’t fear the elements, modular furniture to shape and adapt the space as needed and a gorgeous aesthetics that has nothing to envy to indoor furniture.
Embracing nature in outdoor design
Greenery is obviously one of the first ingredients of outdoor spaces, but not everyone has access to a big garden.
Good news: the outdoor design trend is also thinking of the ones among us that only have a small space outdoors. For instance, it's becoming more common to see planters integrated into furniture, making space for more greenery without taking up any extra space.
Outdoor design calls for natural materials
If spending time outdoors is a way to connect with nature, it makes total sense for outdoor furniture to embrace natural materials.
Wood, rattan and wicker are the first that come to mind, but they’re not alone. Clay and terracotta are also used often and their colour brings in a beautiful earthy vibe.
Another interesting outdoor-friendly material is cork. Despite not being used so often, it is a great option for the outdoor as it’s naturally waterproof! Cork comes in a variety of different colours and its soft touch adds a soothing natural texture.
Cuddling furniture
Going outdoors to unwind calls for a relaxing space. And looking at the newest outdoor furniture collections, comfort is indeed a clear priority.
These days, outdoor furniture incorporates more organic shapes – that are naturally soothing to the human brain. On top of that, a mix of soft finishes and fluffy upholsteries are a clear invite to sit back and relax.
Many sofas and chairs also come with a higher back that is clearly inspired by sound-proof chairs.
They create a sort of alcove, inviting to escape from the surroundings and dive into a moment of full relaxation. Which is exactly what biophilic design would call a refuge corner!
This also ties in with another rising trend in current society: silence.
As a bottom line, outdoor furniture is now so beautiful that one could totally use it indoors too!
