Get ready, Chicago, it’s that time of the year again: Patio season!
Well, almost... The one thing we can be sure of is that we never know what kind of weather we’re going to get around here. Last week, we were basking in true summer weather, and the next thing we knew, it’s snowing again. So, if you made the mistake of setting up your patio furniture too early, don’t worry, you’re not alone. But fear not, it’s time to dust off those patio furniture sets and get ready for the upcoming spring and summer season.
Whether you’re redecorating or setting up your outdoor space for the first time, we’ve got you covered with some new outdoor finds that will take your patio game to a whole new level. From furniture to décor to hosting supplies, we’ll help you create a space that will make your neighbors envious.
First thing first, when designing any outdoor area, it’s crucial to consider the architecture and aesthetic of both the interior and exterior of your home. We can’t stress enough how important it is to create a feeling of continuity between the two. Our second tip is to establish the function of the space you’re working with. Don’t have a huge patio? No problem, we’ll make sure it’s functional and serves an end goal function that you’ll love. And last but not least, don’t be afraid to treat your outdoor space like an extension of your indoor space. Use durable outdoor rugs, fun lighting, and décor like pillows and throws to create a cozy living room or dining room vibe.
So, while we wait for the official start of patio season and now that we’ve covered some tips to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing patio, let’s take a look at some of our favorite patio products that can help elevate your outdoor space. But before we do that, we want to show you one of our urban patios. Despite having limited space and not wanting to spend a fortune on building out a kitchen or pergola, we were able to create a cozy oasis to enjoy the summer weather. We’re still putting the finishing touches on it, because let’s face it, as interior designers, we focus on other projects so much that our own end up being secondary, but we wanted to share it with you as inspiration for what you can do with your own patio.
Design: Studio MAK
Shop the products we used on our patio by clicking the links within the mood board. Although the lounge chairs displayed in our patio are no longer in production, we have included a comparable alternative for your convenience. We highly recommend Article’s outdoor furniture for its durability and value, as it has endured several harsh Chicago winters without any issues.
While we all love a sunny (and warm) day in Chicago, our skin deserves some relief from those harsh rays. Lucky for us, we don’t have to construct a complex patio cover to achieve some much-needed shade. Instead, invest in a stylish outdoor umbrella that provides ample coverage. Not only will it protect your skin, but it can also add a pop of color and style to your patio setup. Follow our links to shop for some of our favorite outdoor umbrellas.
UMBRELLAS
Design Credit: Pure Salt
Adding outdoor umbrellas to your patio is an excellent way to create a stylish and functional outdoor living space. Outdoor umbrellas not only offer protection from the sun, but they also add a pop of color and style to your patio decor. With a wide variety of styles, colors, and sizes available, you can easily find an umbrella that complements your outdoor furniture and reflects your personal style.
Consider a cantilever umbrella for a modern and sleek look or a classic market umbrella for a timeless touch. Many umbrellas have features like tilting mechanisms and UV-resistant fabrics,so you can enjoy your outdoor umbrella for many seasons to come.
So, whether you're looking to create a cozy spot for al fresco dining or a relaxing oasis for lounging, an outdoor umbrella is a must-have accessory for any patio. One other tip we like to suggest, especially for Chicago for Chicago summers is to invest in a sturdy umbrella with a steady base to avoid it breaking or tipping over in the Chicago winds.
Here are some of our selections of umbrellas for your Chicago outdoor patio:
SOFAS & SECTIONALS
Design Credit: Studio McGee
A comfortable lounge area is a must-have for any outdoor patio space. When arranging your furniture, be sure to create a conversational layout that encourages relaxation and connection. And if you’re looking for some fresh new pieces to elevate your setup, we’ve got you covered with our latest product pick that is perfect for your Chicago patio.
LOUNGE CHAIRS
OUTDOOR COFFEE TABLES
ARTIFICIAL PLANTS & PLANTERS
Artificial plants and planters are not only a great option for indoor spaces but also for outdoor patios. Outdoor artificial plants are designed to withstand the elements, including sunlight, rain, and wind, without fading or deteriorating. They are an excellent choice for those who want to add greenery to their outdoor living spaces without the hassle of maintaining real plants. Artificial plants are perfect for those who live in areas with extreme weather conditions (Hello, Chicago!) or have limited access to natural light. With a variety of outdoor planters available, you can easily create a stylish and functional outdoor living space.
Here are just a few selections for your outdoor space:
OUTDOOR RUGS
We love using outdoor rugs when designing outdoor patios. Outdoor rugs are an easy way to add style and comfort to your outdoor patio and make the space feel like an outdoor living room. They not only provide a soft surface for your feet but also add color and texture to your outdoor decor. Most outdoor rugs are designed to withstand the elements, including sun, rain, and mildew, and they are made of materials that are resistant to fading and staining, but make sure to do your research and choose wisely. The heavier the rug, the better.
With a variety of styles and sizes available, you can easily find an outdoor rug that compliments your patio furniture and reflects your personal style. Choose a bold and colorful rug to make a statement, or go for a neutral design that blends seamlessly with your decor. Outdoor rugs are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas.
Whether you're looking to create a cozy seating area or define your outdoor dining space, an outdoor rug is a versatile and stylish addition to any patio. Check out some of our favorites below!
