Just because a space is outdoors doesn't mean it can't be thoughtfully designed. An artful combination of beautiful materials makes any space feel enchanting and welcoming. Since the '70s, bamboo outdoor furniture has been one of the best materials for creating this feeling, and Freddie Mercury's home is the blueprint.
Archival photographs from 1975 show the Queen frontman posing in his garden. The singer's patio idea features a round bamboo table and a bamboo sofa accented with gorgeous block-printed cushions. A barrel-style planter and stone flooring ground the material with natural texture and a celebration of the surrounding world. Trellises up the wall, add an additional wooden accent and a space to grow vines, if Freddie were interested.
With the renewed interest in expressive spaces and natural materials sparked by a revival of '70s trends, this look is sure to emerge as a major contender for the biggest trend of 2026. Lena Gierasinska, Design Expert at Barker and Stonehouse, explains, 'When it comes to outdoor furniture, the key is to strike a balance between style, comfort, and durability.'
Recreate Freddie's Look at Home
This bamboo table is the ideal side to a pretty porch sofa. Its durable design can withstand the elements, and the look will be on trend for years to come.
These pragmatic whiskey barrel planters have a well-positioned drainage hole and a stylish look, which would be a great complement to bamboo furniture. Arrange with an easy-to-grow plant that tolerates different levels of sunlight.
This beautiful cushion has tassel details and cotton fabric for a comforting feel and stylish look. It would be beautiful on an outdoor sofa.
She continues: 'Stylish garden furniture often mirrors interior trends, and as consumers increasingly see their garden as an extension of their interiors, this has never been truer. Natural textures like teak and rattan, soft curves, and calming, earthy tones are all set to be popular in 2025. For practical reasons, prioritize weather-resistant materials. Low-maintenance materials are essential. Cushions should be made with quick-drying, UV-resistant fabrics, and frames need to withstand the elements without compromising on aesthetic appeal.'
The popularity of bamboo, rattan, and other natural materials aligns with the larger trend towards outdoor living rooms. Lena advises: 'Gardens and outdoor spaces have fast become an extension of our living areas, so it’s important to consider ways in which you can style these spaces to be both beautiful and practical. Rattan furniture will create a laid-back feel and can be adorned with bold scatter cushions to complement the colour scheme of your garden. From lounge chairs to dining suites, rattan instantly adds relaxed character and style to your garden.'
Bamboo will never fade out of style, and Freddie Mercury'a patio shows exactly why. The beautiful staples brings texture and warmth to any space where it is used.
