Share

We don’t know about you, but… we can’t wait to get back outside. Probably more than any other year, we’re being beckoned by the great outdoors (or, more likely, the great backyard or great balcony). After a year indoors, we’re looking forward to some time in the sun, even if it’s just with our immediate family or closest friends for now. And the time to plan for that is here! 

Our Spring Outdoor Preview pulls together some of our favorite pieces from top brands and sellers in the space, with items for everything you’ll need. Comfy seating? Got it. Charming tables for resting a drink? Yup. Bright backgammon table you never knew you needed but now can’t live without? Got that too. Below, browse a selection of our picks in every category, and be sure to shop the full outdoor preview for everything on offer.

Terrace with checkered floor and rattan lounge chair on Chairish
Design by Jennifer Garrigues. Photo by Troy Campbell.

Chaise Longues

Whose favorite type of seating isn’t a chaise longue? You’re required to lay down, they’re basically designed for lounging poolside, and they’ve got a delightfully bizarre and difficult spelling. Need we say more? This season, expect plenty of colorful options as well as expertly constructed teak pieces perfect for a mid-afternoon nap. And be sure to check out Summer Classics to see some of our favorites.

Outdoor sitting area featuring wood sofas with white cushions and lanterns
Design by Gauthier~Stacy. Photo by Tricia Shay.

Outdoor Chairs

The chaise longue’s slightly less attention-grabbing (but let’s face it — more versatile) cousin. Outdoor chairs have come a long way from the days of simple aluminum and thatched plastic in the backyard — these stylish seats would look just as home indoors as they would outside. We’re loving the gorgeous luxe chairs from Summit Furniture in particular.

Covered porch with gray armchairs and round side table on Chairish
Design by Howard Design Studio. Photo by Emily Jenkins Followill.

Dining & Side Tables

With the proliferation of new outdoor seating options, it’d be unfair to leave tables out of the fun. There are new tables of every size and shape available, whether you’re looking for a large item for dining, a classically sleek side table, or small, whimsical drinks tables. Check out Casa Cosima Outdoor for some chic teak pieces.

Covered patio with beige drapes and hanging lantern ceiling lights on Chairish
Design by Jeff Andrews. Photo by Laura Hull.

Lighting

This is another category that has seen a major renaissance over the last few years, with lights of every style to rival the bright beauties you find inside. There are infinite lanterns and outdoor sconces available as well as charming cordless table lights and even chandeliers (for your tropical backyard cabana, of course).

Outdoor sitting area with stone coffee table and blue wire rocking chair
Design by Scott Sanders. Photo by Peter Murdock.

Pillows 

Probably the most prolific outdoor category is actually fabrics, as designers (and parents) adopt them for furniture that might take a beating outside… or a rogue Lunchable dropped inside. That means about a zillion new gorgeous pillow options as well, perfect for dressing up your seating areas and making them work for different seasons and occasions. Check out the iconic Schumacher for some of our faves.

Poolside lounge chairs with blue cushions and yellow-and-blue-striped umbrella
Design by mr. alex TATE. Photo by Alex Alonso.

Umbrellas

No, not for rainy days at the beach. Channel your inner Palm Beach scene queen with a colorful, retro-inspired umbrella that makes everyone want to step into the shade. Check out our collaboration with Santa Barbara Designs for an umbrella that matches any vivid outdoor style. Ella, ella, ella, ay.

Outdoor dining set with colorful textile throw blankets and silver lantern
Design by Bardes Interiors. Photo by Chris Davis.

Tabletop

This is a category where you can really let things sparkle. From colorful glassware to playful placemats and unique cutlery, outdoor tabletop pieces can add a sense of whimsy to outdoor gatherings.

Outdoor sitting area with wood armchairs and yellow-tile fireplace
Design by SUBU Design Architecture. Photo by Kelly Peak.

Outdoor Rugs

You’re not just limited to jute and other natural materials outdoors (not that we don’t love them too). Outdoor rugs come in all shapes and sizes, from simple runners to vivid new rugs for dining areas.

Outdoor orange backgammon table with wicker and metal chairs on Chairish
Images courtesy of Oomph.

Games & Game Tables

Put down the phones and play a different type of game. We’re seeing lots of adorable games and luxe tables from brands like Oomph that take playing outside in a whole new direction. 

February 24, 2021

Dennis Sarlo is the executive editor of Chairish and a lover of all things design-related. Prior to joining the team, he served as the executive editor of Dering Hall and was the first site director of Architectural Digest. He was also part of the founding team of travel startup Jetsetter. He lives in New York.