When we think about investing in garden furniture for the new season, we are often drawn to durable forms that will withstand the weather year-round and feel solid and reliable. But Alexandra Daddario has turned that sturdy stereotype on its head with her choice of elegant soft gray furniture in a delicate metalwork design, and it fits beautifully in her serene backyard.
Amongst the feathery-leaved Japanese maple trees, neat box hedge-lined pathways, and stone buddha statues, Alexandra Daddario's outdoor furniture blends, rather than interrupts her calming aesthetic.
Sleek metallic forms with a lattice back and spindle-not jar with the surroundings. Pretty navy cushions with a delicate white print complete the look, bringing an indoors-out vibe that reads relaxed and elegant.
I've spoken to the experts for their input on the garden furniture to shop now to get Alexandra Daddario's boutique hotel look that would feel equally at home on an Italian terrace as in her backyard. Plus, I've given you a headstart with some garden buys to recreate her vibe, from a 3-piece bistro set (Bed Bath & Beyond) to some simple and stylish seat cushions from Target that steal her look.
Shop Alexandra Daddario's Zen Garden Look
Just one or two of these stylish chairs could create a moment in a quiet corner of your garden, paired with a small bistro table to rest a coffee and a book.
This 3-piece set has a similar look to Alexandra Daddario's garden furniture with the lattice-work back, however it boasts an taller frame for an elevated look that would be perfect for cocktail hour.
Designed for use both indoors and out, this pretty chair has more of a flourish than Alexandra Daddario's garden furniture, and comes in both this grey-ish mint hue as well as white for a fresh look.
Made from durable weather resistant fabric in a delicate navy and white print similar to the cushions on Alexandra Daddario's garden furniture, these promise to bring both comfort and style to your outdoor living area.
Bring some of Alexandra Daddario's zen to your garden with a stone meditating Buddha statue. This one stands 28" tall, is in a gray magnesium finish and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
This beautiful Japanese maple will provide light feathery green foliage in the spring and orange leaves in the fall for seasonal color that's perfect for a zen-inspired garden like Alexandra Daddario's.
Beautiful French doors open out onto Alexandra Daddario's patio – a pristine terrace surrounded by soft greenery and light-colored stone, so the addition of solid wooden or black metal furniture would instantly add an unwanted heaviness to such a serene scene. That's why her choice of light grey furniture feels inspired, and, thanks to the color choice and the cushions, it feels like an extension of the indoors out, as we prepare to throw open our own doors with the arrival of spring.
Darren Mason, the Managing Director at Cornilleau, explains: 'We’re seeing gardens and terraces evolve into fully functioning outdoor living rooms. Some homeowners want spaces that work harder, somewhere they can entertain, dine, relax, and even work. Furniture often needs to be as considered and versatile as the pieces you’d choose for your interior.'
On light gray furniture as a design choice, Mike Fretto, Co-founder and Creative Director at outdoor furniture brand Neighbor, says: 'I think this works well because it reduces contrast without completely disappearing. Black or other punchy colors can feel a bit graphic or high-contrast in a garden, whereas a light gray reads more like a neutral backdrop. It blends in a bit more and perhaps lets the greenery and natural materials like wood or stone take the lead.'
Opting for furniture that blends, rather than dominates, is clearly a conscious design decision by Alexandra Daddario to highlight her beautifully leafy planting, whilst the light stone floor tiles and Buddha sculpture (Raymour & Flanigan have similar) maintain that softness.
But you don't have to go for gray furniture. The best colors for outdoor furniture are often lighter hues that reflect heat from the sun. Powder-coated metal pieces like Alexandra Daddario's can come in any shade, but look particularly effective in grays, creams, and pastels, and allow for delicate and ornate detailing like this mint green chair from Anthropologie.
When it comes to patio furniture ideas, 'powder-coated aluminum is the gold standard for metal furniture outdoors,' states Mike, as it resists corrosion and is versatile and lightweight. 'A simple seat pad or tie-on cushion [such as Target's Arden outdoor chair cushion] can make a big difference in comfort,' he adds. 'Keep it light, and easy-to-maintain, performance fabrics that can handle sun and moisture are key.'
If you've been looking for furniture to bring a lighter touch to your garden, this is just the inspiration to give it a go – think slim and elegant designs in a soft palette that will enhance your planting scheme, and be sure to avoid these outdated backyard trends if you want to keep your outdoor space feeling fresh.
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