In Audrey Hepburn's garden, no corner goes unused. An archival image from 1971 shows how the actress transformed a forgotten, shady spot into a gorgeous outdoor entertaining area – it's a timeless design moment that continues to inspire our approach to outdoor living in 2026.
The secluded garden idea is part of Audrey's 'La Paisible' (meaning 'The Peaceful') property in Tolochenaz, Switzerland, where she lived from 1963 until she died in 1993. La Paisible was always about escape for Audrey, serving as a tranquil site to raise her family, and her beautiful outdoor dining space is no exception.
It features a luncheon table covered in a flower-patterned tablecloth with swirling iron outdoor chairs. The table features a collection of modern glassware, including a green carafe and glasses (like these chic glasses from Anthropologie), with a grouping of pink and yellow roses in a silver vase brightening the look.
As we explore outdoor dining ideas for the warmer seasons ahead, we're looking to Audrey's bright and colorful design for inspiration. Here's a sneak peek into the actress's garden corner, an edit of the best products for recreating her look, and plenty of expert commentary on why her bold design is having a resurgence this spring.
Shop Audrey's Look
Audrey adorns her table in a blue and white daisy-covered tablecloth. This vinyl one is water resistant for long-lasting gatherings in the outdoors.
This pretty four-piece set features a table, two chairs, and a loveseat. The antique green material feels naturally aged and charming, just like the one in Audrey's garden.
From its charming, twisted handles and rim to its aged silver finish, this vase exemplifies the traditional elegance of silver decor. Style this on a bookshelf – with flowers or without – for a characterful look.
Green glasses are incredibly elegant with a blue tablecloth, and these ones from Anthropologie are especially beautiful. The simple pattern is casual enough for summer entertaining, but elevated enough for dinner parties.
A carafe is the chicest way to serve wine in the summer sun, and this understated design makes it even cooler. When you're not using it for entertaining, it would be adorable next to the bedside.
If you're thinking of recreating Audrey's planting technique, you'll need lavender plants, and this is one of the best deals we've seen. At just under $7.50 a plant, it's a steal.
As bright colors and personality-filled patterns re-emerge as one of the biggest interior design trends of 2026, these same impulses are translating to our outside spaces. Design expert Lena Gierasinska explains: 'A garden party theme is the perfect opportunity to embrace colour and creativity. Playful prints, vibrant florals, and unexpected combinations bring energy and joy to your tablescape.'
Lena advises: 'You can also look into pattern play, which adds personality. Try layering striped runners, checked napkins, and colour-blocked plates to give a curated but eclectic look. Spring and summer are all about colour confidence, don’t be afraid to experiment with vibrant hues, contrasting patterns, and bold statement pieces. The key is to strike a balance between playfulness and elegance.'
Audrey’s outdoor dining area is a masterclass in atmosphere, demonstrating how tactile textures, confident color, and thoughtfully chosen accessories can create a seamless indoor-outdoor aesthetic. With the right set-up, an alfresco dining space becomes more than functional – it becomes a defining design moment.
For more inspiration, be sure to explore our round-up of the biggest table decor trends for 2026.
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