Create your own escape | Toronto Sun

Article content

‘Outdoor furniture is stepping up its game’

Article content

Article content

Recommended Videos

Article content

After a harsh winter, you can’t wait to create an outdoor escape this spring and embrace the continuing trend of making your outdoor space an extension of your indoor space.

“For many Canadians, the winters can feel everlasting. The moment a glimpse of warmer days come along, Canadians are eagerly preparing their outdoor spaces to get the most of their time outside,” says EJ Middelhoven, head of communication and design at IKEA Canada.

“We have been seeing more and more that Canadians are using their outdoor space as an extension of their indoor one. Whether it’s having a large yard, a small balcony or a little stoop outside, these spaces serve as meaningful places to enjoy your morning coffee, read a book, spend time with family or just get a breath of fresh air,” he says.

Article content

Article content

“Another seasonal need around this time are options for extra outdoor storage. For many small dwellings, the lack of a garage or storage unit is common. Many outdoor spaces are used for storing seasonal items such as car tires, seasonal clothing or gardening and lawn equipment,” says Middelhoven. “Stylish outdoor storage that fits seamlessly into these spaces are important to Canadians and IKEA has lots of options to offer.”

‘MEDITERRANEAN CHARM’

Bouclair recently unveiled its outdoor collection. “Bring a relaxed vibe to your outdoor space with our fresh collection, inspired by Mediterranean charm, natural textures and a tropical-casual feel for effortless style,” says Bouclair designer Bianka Jean.

Article content

“This year, it’s all about making your outdoor space feel as comfy and stylish as your living room,” says HGTV personality Jo Alcorn, who was on hand for Bouclair’s reveal. “Outdoor furniture is stepping up its game, with a focus on materials that can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them, while still looking fab and feeling comfy.”

Natural materials are a “big hit,” she reports. “We’re talking teak, rattan and bamboo. These materials don’t just look great outdoors; they also add a cozy, warm vibe to your space. Take Bouclair’s Sahara Collection for example. It’s all about an organic, laid-back warmth inspired by desert and tropical vibes. The main materials are natural fibres and textured ceramics, with colours inspired by the desert.”

Article content

Alcorn describes Bouclair’s Tunis Collection as a “little piece of earthy Tunisia, with bold stripes and fresh geometric patterns. A mix of natural fibres and cotton gives it a light, delicate feel. The warm colours are inspired by natural wood, concrete and the blue aqua sky, creating a perfectly balanced look.”

When it comes to colour, “it’s all about bold, vibrant colours,” Alcorn reports. “Picture tropical blues, sunny yellows and lush greens. These colours can instantly make your space pop and create a lively, energetic vibe.”

Bouclair’s Liberia Collection “is like stepping into the tropical, bold coolness of Saint-Tropez. Fun colours, toucans and furniture with an embossed ceramic reactive finish make this style stand out. The bold green colour – a current trend – makes this mix feel super fresh and cool.”

Article content

‘URBAN TOUCH’

The Bogota Collection “is all about urban sophistication with geometric designs and vibrant graphics.” Alcorn says. “The mix of line geographic leaf in a black matte finish adds an urban touch, while terracotta infuses a youthful energy.”

Bouclair’s Corsica Collection, meanwhile, “captures the Mediterranean spirit with bold, natural elements,” she says. “Think fresh palm leaves, broken lines and the feel of ocean terraces. Cobalt, a hot trend in the outdoor market, works perfectly with neutrals for a classic Mediterranean feel.”

Rona has unveiled three collections. Modern Nature is all about minimalism and organic textures. Cushions feature geometric shapes and florals while a dark, neutral colour palette features green accents. The Urban Travel collection features blue and terracotta accents. The Summer Happiness collection features boho chic and artisanal flair. Soft pastels stand out against a canvas of beige and white tones.

Article content

SIDEBAR

Outdoor decorating tips

HGTV personality Jo Alcorn, founder and principal designer of Alcorn Home Design & Build, shares some tips and tricks for creating a trendy and stylish outdoor space:

• Start with a focal point. “This could be a stylish outdoor chair, a pattern or colour. This piece will set the tone for your space and everything else will revolve around it.”
• Layer with outdoor rugs and cushions. “These add comfort and can also inject colour and pattern into your space.”
• Don’t forget about lighting. “String lights, lanterns or solar lights can create a magical ambiance once the sun goes down.”
• Incorporate greenery. “Plants can bring life to your outdoor space. Consider a mix of potted plants, hanging baskets and climbing vines.”
• Personalize your space. “Add elements that reflect your personality, whether it’s a hammock for lazy afternoons, a pizza oven for family gatherings or a bird feeder for nature lovers.”

“In the end, creating a stylish outdoor space is all about embracing the latest trends while also adding your personal touch,” Alcorn says. “With the right furniture, colours and accessories, you can transform your outdoor area into a beautiful extension of your home, perfect for enjoying the summer season.

Article content