New York City is still thawing from a blizzard as I write this – and yet, Crate & Barrel's new outdoor lineup has got me dreaming of sun-drenched escapes. Bali, for instance – long perched on my bucket list – is elegantly echoed in the teak-rich warmth of the brand's tropic-inspired sub-collection of the same name.
But if I were to crown one forever-favorite oasis, it would almost certainly be France. Luckily, Crate & Barrel’s new Galleria assortment is already transporting me months ahead from the dreary city slosh – and across the Atlantic – to warmer air, linen dresses, and those endlessly charming cobblestoned streets.
Whimsy radiates from each piece of outdoor furniture, with its airy negative space between teardrop-shaped backrests in blackened, all-weather steel. Meanwhile, curved stretchers and ball-foot accents deliver a hand-forged, wrought-iron effect worthy of a far-flung château garden.
Look closely, and you may clock the piped upholstery on the Galleria Curved Sofa. This is a tailored, hotel-coded detail we’ve been seeing in the bedding arena – now stretching its (apparently) Parisian legs into outdoor furniture trends.
Galleria – which includes one bistro set and three seating separates – essentially reads like the antique patio furniture you’ve been stalking on resale sites, only to find it either in tragic condition or excellent condition for tragic prices.
It's an elegant compromise, tiding me over until taking a week of PTO feels a little more reasonable.
Those graceful armrests lend a whisper of whimsy to gardens or patios. Striking on their own, even more so as a pair.
At 35 inches in diameter, this bistro table is a fabulous fit for smaller backyards (and equally chic on a terrace or balcony). Skip the full set if you’d like; the tabletop plays well with the outdoor chairs you already own.
This curved sofa doesn’t require much persuasion to gather 'round – guests will naturally follow those elegant lines. Consider placing two opposite each other to form a circle around a fire feature, or – if you’re hosting a larger gathering – opt for the 144-inch version instead.
Set the Scene
If the Galleria collection were landing on my firescape tomorrow, here’s how I’d finish the Euro summer scene.
Nothing derails an alfresco affair quite like an accidental ‘oompah’ moment – this is your slice of France, after all. This acrylic stemware is so chic and unfussy, you won’t miss the crystal you left inside.
This petite portable lamp packs a surprising punch in terracotta, which makes a sweet counterpoint to all that blackened steel. Set the mood at the bistro table, carry it to the sofa, then bring it inside when the evening winds down. With more than ten hours of glow time, it’ll be glowing all evening.
It may be your version of a Euro summer, but that’s still no excuse for warm wine. This woven wicker cooler is discreet enough not to crowd that beautiful tempered-glass tabletop, yet capable enough to chill your best Sancerre.
If you’ve made it this far, you’re already entertaining the idea of expanding your outdoor furniture archive. But if you need a final nudge, there are occasions when a ‘nice to have’ becomes an actually necessary upgrade.
Certain telltale signs, such as fading finishes or wobbling frames, signal it’s time to retire your current backyard setup. Learn exactly when to replace your outdoor furniture, then make room for something far more charming (like the beauties above).
