Following a severe winter, you’re eager to design an outdoor retreat for this spring and follow the ongoing trend of turning your exterior area into a continuation of your interior living space.
For numerous Canadians, winter seems never-ending,” notes EJ Middelhoven, who leads Communications and Design at IKEA Canada. “As soon as signs of milder weather appear, Canadians start getting their outdoor areas ready to make the most of spending time outside.
We’ve noticed that Canadians increasingly view their outdoor areas as continuations of their interior living spaces,” he explains. “This could be a spacious backyard, a compact balcony, or even a tiny front porch. These spots function as significant locations for sipping morning coffee, reading a book, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply getting some fresh air.
An additional requirement during this season involves finding suitable solutions for extra outdoor storage. This is particularly relevant for numerous smaller homes which often do not have access to garages or dedicated storage units,” explains Middelhoven. “Many people use their outdoor areas to store things like vehicle wheels, seasonal attire, and garden tools.” He adds, “Canadians value stylish outdoor storage that blends well with their surroundings, and IKEA provides plenty of choices in this regard.
‘MEDITERRANEAN CHARM’
Recently, Bouclair introduced its new outdoor line. “Infuse your exterior area with a laid-back atmosphere using our latest range, which draws inspiration from the allure of the Mediterranean, organic materials, and a breezy tropical theme for an unstudied chic look,” states Bouclair designer Bianka Jean.
This season, the aim is to transform your outdoor area into an extension of your cozy and fashionable living room,” states HGTV star Jo Alcorn, present at Bouclair’s unveiling. “Outdoor furnishings are elevating their standards, emphasizing materials robust enough to withstand anything Mother Nature sends their way, yet maintaining a fabulous appearance and providing comfort.
She notes that natural materials are very popular right now, mentioning items like teak, rattan, and bamboo. These elements not only enhance outdoor spaces but also bring a comfortable, inviting feel indoors. For instance, Bouclair’s Sahara Collection embodies this trend with its focus on organic, relaxed warmth drawn from both desert and tropical themes. This collection primarily uses natural fibers and textured ceramics, featuring hues reminiscent of arid landscapes.
Alcorn characterizes Bouclair’s Tunis Collection as “an earthly slice of Tunisia, featuring striking stripes and vibrant geometric designs. It combines natural fibers and cotton for a lightweight yet refined texture. The warm hues draw inspiration from natural wood tones, concrete shades, and the azure skies, resulting in an impeccably harmonious aesthetic.”
Regarding color choices, “opt for daring and vivid hues,” as stated by Alcorn. “Imagine shades like oceanic blues, radiant yellows, and rich greens.” Such colors have the power to immediately bring vibrancy to your area and generate an invigorating, dynamic atmosphere.
The Bouclair’s Liberia Collection “offers a vibrant entry into the lively, striking ambiance of Saint-Tropez. Featuring playful hues, toucan motifs, and furnishings adorned with an embossed ceramic reactive glaze, this collection truly stands apart. The prominent use of emerald green—a trending shade—adds a contemporary freshness and allure to these pieces.”
‘URBAN TOUCH’
The Bogota Collection “embodies urban elegance through its use of geometric patterns and striking visuals,” according to Alcorn. He notes that the blend of linear geographical leaves in a sleek black matte complements this theme, adding an edgy city vibe, whereas the terracotta elements bring in a fresh and energetic feel.
Bouclair’s Corsica Collection, she notes, “embodies the essence of the Mediterranean through striking, natural components.” She adds, “Imagine vibrant palm fronds, jagged lines, and the ambiance of seaside balconies. Cobalt, which is currently trending in outdoor spaces, blends seamlessly with neutral tones to achieve an authentic Mediterranean look.”
Rona has introduced three new collections. The Modern Nature line emphasizes simplicity with natural elements. It includes cushions adorned with geometric patterns and floral designs, using a predominantly dark, neutral color scheme punctuated by hints of green. In contrast, the Urban Travel range incorporates shades of blue and terra-cotta. Meanwhile, the Summer Happiness assortment showcases a bohemian elegance combined with handcrafted touches. This series is characterized by soft pastel hues set against an understated backdrop of beige and white tones.
Outdoor decorating tips
Jo Alcorn, the HGTV star and head designer at Alcorn Home Design & Build, offers insights into crafting a fashionable and contemporary outdoor area.
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Begin with a central element. “It might be an elegant outdoor seat, a design motif, or a specific color. This item will establish the atmosphere of your area, and all other elements should complement it.”
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Add outdoor rugs and cushions as layers. “They enhance comfort and bring color and patterns into your area.” -
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Remember to consider lighting. “Hanging string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered lights can add a enchanting atmosphere after dark.” -
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Include vegetation. “Greenery can infuse vitality into your exterior area. Think about combining container plants, suspended planters, and creeping climbers.” -
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Tailor your environment. “Incorporate items that showcase who you are, such as a hammock for relaxed evenings, an outdoor pizza oven for hosting relatives, or a bird feeder for enthusiasts of wildlife.”
Alcorn states, “Ultimately, designing an elegant outdoor retreat involves following contemporary styles while still infusing your own uniqueness.” He continues, “By selecting appropriate furnishings, hues, and decorative items, you have the ability to convert your external zone into a stunning continuation of your living space, ideal for relishing the warm months.”
