The Uplift is a monthly series in which our Style Editor Nikhita Mahtani uncovers the best decor to bring joy to your home. She consults our experts and picks through thousands of pieces from the biggest designers and retailers to bring you the very best.
We’re all thinking about outdoor hosting and warm days in the sun now that the weather is finally turning a corner, and so, updating our outdoor spaces is currently top priority. If you’re looking for new options for your backyard, whether that’s the best outdoor furniture, some new planters, or simple items like pillows and throws, the editors at Homes & Gardens are here to help.
I’ve asked all of them to give me their current favorite outdoor decor buys, and they didn’t disappoint in the least bit. From bright, colorful decor options to furniture pieces that are durable and weatherproof, here’s everything the Homes & Gardens team is buying right now to update their outdoor spaces for the summer, so you can get some inspiration as you plan your own summer decor ideas. Now, if only the rain would stay away.
‘I count my crockery as decor too, and when it comes to outdoor dining, I always look for materials that can cope with being alfresco,’ says Hebe Hatton, Head of Interiors.
‘Melamine is a great material, but what I love about these Anthropologie plates is you can't tell they aren't ceramic: They look just as beautiful as the real stuff I picked up on my European travels. But unlike those, they can't be smashed on the patio: RIP Portuguese jug, you are missed.’ The versatile shades of blue on each are absolutely stunning, too.
‘What my garden (and I think most gardens) is missing is print and pattern,’ Content Editor Charlotte Olby tells me. ‘I can't wait to roll out this denim blue, weather-resistant rug for some extra softness underfoot.’
The fringed tassels on this option also add an extra dose of personality, and the low pile construction makes it perfect for high-traffic areas.
‘I'm bringing the Unexpected Red Theory al fresco this season with Oka’s red striped stool,’ adds Charlotte. ‘Not only is it great for extra guests, but it also doubles up as a stylish side table.’ It’s made of 100 percent ceramic and is entirely hand-painted, so you can really count on it to make a major statement on your patio.
‘As someone who can’t ever get enough of rattan, this planter basket allows me to continue my favorite retro aesthetic outside,’ says Megan Slack, Head of Celebrity. ‘I love how these ones are subtle enough to let the plants do most of the talking, but they’re also chic in their own way.’
I would suggest you style these at the corner of a patio or terrace, but they’re also trendy enough to stand alone as a textural addition to your home decor. ‘But of course, I’ll be using them for my indoor plants when fall comes, too!’ adds Megan.
‘A bar cart is a must if you love hosting friends and family outdoors during the summer months, and I’ve got my eye on this one from Wayfair,’ News Writer Abby Wilson tells me. ‘The wicker blends in perfectly with a backyard or patio setting, and the detailing makes it a bit more elevated than others I’ve seen.’
It’ll also work just as well indoors when the season’s up, so it’s definitely a purchase that has some longevity to it.
Bird feeders aren’t exactly known to be chic accessories, but this one is an exception,’ adds Abby. Featuring streamlined recycled glass, it’s a subtle addition to any outdoor space.
‘One of my favorite parts about spring and summer is seeing all the birds reemerge, and bringing a feeder into your yard or patio means you don’t have to travel far to immerse yourself in nature,’ she says. If birds are your thing, this is definitely the purchase for you.
As soon as summer rolls around, all I want to do is eat outdoors,’ says eCommerce Editor Laura Honey. ‘After years of pining after pizza ovens, I've taken the plunge and bought a Gozney Arc Pizza Oven for my deck. It's the perfect size for a tray of roasted vegetables, a pizza, or a few calzones.’
Laura recently reviewed the product, too, and she says that since it’s gas-fuelled, it’s incredibly easy to use, even if you have no experience outdoor cooking. Not to mention, it’s simply gorgeous to look at.
Was $1,798, now $1,528 at Lulu & Georgia
‘If money were no object, I'd be buying this Lulu and Georgia outdoor table, especially since it's got 15% off at the moment,’ adds Laura. ‘The warm, earthy tones look beautiful outside, especially if you already have lots of terracotta planters around your yard.’
The sculptural feel on the table also allows it to feel more like a work of art than a piece of furniture, and the two-tone finish makes a massive statement.
‘Adding a few pillows can bring an outdoor sitting area back to life,’ says Content Editor Molly Malsom. ‘I love these striped designs from Anthropologie, as they add a playful pattern to plain outdoor furniture.’
After all, ruffled pillows are super in these days, so you’ll be staying totally on-trend.
‘I love an outdoor rug: It brings in a more cozy texture, and helps to zone different outdoor spaces,’ says Molly. ‘This woven rug is a perfect option. It’s natural, tactile, and brings in a lovely hint of green.’
The border fabric is actually made of Sunbrella for extra weatherproofing, and the durable design will last for ages.
When entertaining outdoors, one of the most important things you can do is make sure to set the mood, and I believe soft lighting is the best way to do that. Instead of doing traditional string lights, this year I’m trying out these bamboo lanterns from Pottery Barn. Not only are they nature-inspired and easily fit into most decor schemes, but the woven texture allows peeks of light to shine through, bringing a warm glow to your summer parties when the sun sets.
A good pouf is a must for the outdoors: It’s so versatile, and can serve as extra seating, a spot for food and drinks, or even just a place to rest your feet. However, all poufs aren’t created equally, and if you’re looking for one for your backyard or patio, you need it to be durable and made of weatherproof material. This option from West Elm has a jute-inspired look, but will withstand the elements with ease.
No matter whether your chosen outdoor activities involve hosting, bird-watching, eating, or just plain lazing, let our editors’ picks inspire you to update your backyard and patio this season. From the best outdoor rugs to some chic decor, there’s a pick for everyone on this list.
