Designers and their clients continue to pre-occupy themselves with bringing the outdoors in, and it’s not really hard to see why. Fiddle-leaf fig trees and split-leaf Philodendrons, floral motifs and the jungle look are on the hot list for 2018 because in an increasingly complicated world, they’re a refreshing reminder to breathe, reconnect with nature and live each day to the fullest.
But we draw the line at new modern outdoor loungers. While they could feel at home cozied up inside with textured pillows and a leggy side table, we love them just as nature intended — on a pretty patio or in a well-appointed backyard. Read on for five reasons that back us up.
Sixties low armchair — Fermob
Instead of bringing the outdoors in, extend indoor decor out. An outdoor space can feel just as homey with new collections like the Sixties from Fermob. Lightweight and stretched like a cocoon, the low armchair is perfect for lounging in an urban retreat. The woven resin seat rests on an aluminum frame and comes in a range of rich, earthy colors, including the gorgeous Cactus green show here.
Style this modern backyard beauty with a low aluminum table and a colorful rug.
Risom outdoor lounge chair — Knoll
Designer Jens Risom’s 1943 collection of chairs and tables for Knoll became an instant classic and helped put Knoll on the map. Passing the true test of good design, Risom still resonates 75 years later. Newly re-engineered for the outdoors, the 2018 Risom collection features oiled teak frames and Sunbrella webbing in six colors, including charcoal, navy, ochre, carbon, antique beige and fern.
Besides the lounger shown here, Risom is available as a side chair, an ottoman, and round and square side tables.
Monterey — Barlow Tyrie
In the 1950s, California became a symbol of the American dream, and the modern design movement that so resonated with Californians made its way into homes across the country. Barlow Tyrie’s Monterey armchair and its coordinating pieces feature a solid teak frame with a choice of braided all-weather brown or chalk-colored cord for the seat and back. This paired-down look is best not messed.
When styling this lounger, opt for simple accessories to keep the vibe California cool.
Kantan — Brown Jordan
In 1956, outdoor furniture designer Tadao Inouye collaborated with Brown Jordan to create Kantan. Kantan, which means “simple” in Japanese, was an instant hit among Modern design lovers from coast to coast. According to the company, the Kennedy family compound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, even had a set.
Fast forward to the twenty-tens: The company’s re-introduced Kantan feels just as fresh. Now a trifecta of collections comprising a total of 26 unique pieces, Kantan features the classic Modern look reimagined in materials like the natural brass and Sunbrella Suncloth fabric shown here in sage. Personally, we'd love to see this chair in an outdoor kitchen.
MBRACE — Dedon
Who needs a hug? Or some outdoor hygge for that matter? Designer Sebastian Herner’s MBRACE collection for Dedon has it covered on both accounts. This easy-going low-back lounger features a woven seat, a soft cushion and a solid-teak base, all together capturing what the company calls “the spirit of barefoot luxury” with a Nordic twist.
We like this likable lounger styled poolside with a textured outdoor throw and a cozy fire pit.
How do you style your Modern outdoor lounger? Share with us in the comments.