Furniture can define the atmosphere of the outdoors and plays a crucial role in creating an inviting, comfortable setting that complements the entirety of the hospitality backdrop, making a nice addition to the indoor interiors. However, like with any furniture, outdoor styles and trends are constantly evolving, demonstrating the importance of capturing the perfect balance between luxury and comfort for your outdoor space. Through utilising the latest trends in hospitality furniture, you can create a relevant space that will fulfil its function and wow guests. Here are some fundamental trends and aspects to consider for your outdoor space in 2017:

The importance of colour

Although the colour of furniture may seem like a simple aspect of design, it entails much more than the aesthetics and should not be overlooked. In the hospitality industry, it is crucial to consider the deeper psychological meaning behind the colour and the outcome this might have on guests. Outdoor furniture can often represent a sense of serenity, nature and calmness, so if the goal of your outdoor space is to construct an aura of relaxation and comfort, it is important that your colour palette mirrors this. Using muted blue and green tones (such as aqua) can cement a feeling of relaxation which can have a positive effect on the guest’s state of mind. Conversely, if your aim is to establish a lively and energetic atmosphere with a theme, use the colour of the furniture to reflect this. Deep pinks and oranges can create an energetic, Caribbean-style vibe which is particularly suitable for establishments aiming to reinforce an energetic atmosphere.

Natural materials

Minimalist metals and man-made materials have dominated the outdoor landscape for years, but 2017 is paving the way for a return of natural furniture and less geometric styles. Clean and modern furniture is subsiding in demand and more establishments are seeking furniture that blends in with nature and has a more rustic ambience. Capturing an organic outside space with raw woods, stone, shrubs and swinging seats can construct a relaxed outdoorsy feel that complements the naturalistic setting. The DIY style can encourage customers to feel comfortable, tranquil and stress-free whilst giving the hospitality setting an ‘at-one-with-nature’ look.

Merging the outdoors and indoors

Removing the boundaries between the inside and the outside can be a great way to mix up a space and create a synergy that runs through the establishment. Bringing cushion-style furniture to an outdoor environment can mirror the comfort of the indoor space and encourage guests to relax. Outdoor furniture can now be purchased with a range of durable upholstery that is both practical and comfy and can be covered with throws and cushions to further mimic an indoor space. Hospitality establishments can tailor this to the needs of guests by getting creative with upholstery materials, choosing from a range of exciting colours and textures.

Mix and match

In previous years there has been pressure on hospitality establishments to have matching furniture that conforms to a single theme. However, 2017 is daring to be more creative and a mismatch of materials, textures and styles can establish a truly unique outdoor ambience. If you can’t decide between wicker and aluminium, don’t! Just pick both. This not only gives customers a range of seating options to fit their mood, but it also makes a space look exclusive, stylish and perhaps even a little artistic. However, the styles must still go well together and shouldn’t clash in an unaesthetic way. This can be avoided by commissioning customised outdoor furniture sets that harmonise to create a tasteful outdoor environment.

Environmentally-friendly furniture

With conscious consumerism on the rise, it is important to consider the bigger picture behind furniture design. More customers are paying attention to environmental initiatives, placing importance on the wider impact of the furniture. Hospitality settings can create a mindful USP by using certified woods and materials that lessen the impact on the environment. This represents a great opportunity to develop a unique personality for the space that will hold more meaning for consumers and develop a distinctive importance for the designs.

Embracing rusticity

There is no longer a need for outdoor spaces to be perfectly modern and immaculate with rustic trends making their way back into the hospitality sector. Timeworn styles, distressed wood, neutral colours and washed-out effects are all a great way to create a rustic, effortless environment for an outdoor space. This can be further complemented with stone paving to accentuate the natural look or conversely metallic finishes to establish a unique diversity within the space.

Minimising maintenance

If you are looking to create a truly remarkable outdoor space but don’t have the time to top-up wood stain, remedy the weather-worn or apply furniture covers, then opting for low-maintenance materials might be the way forward. Aluminium is a good choice for fuss-free outdoor furniture, as it is weather-resistant, doesn’t rust and is extremely lightweight. This means that the furniture will last longer, making it the perfect solution for those looking to create a sophisticated outdoor setting that isn’t time-consuming. It can also be moved around easily, so changing the placement of furniture is a relatively quick way to change-up the environment and refresh the outside space.

It is clear that there are a whole host of trends, designs and themes to make outdoor hospitality spaces truly unique whilst establishing a mixture of luxury and comfort for customers. Whether it is a natural ambience, an environment that accentuates comfort or conscious furniture, there are plenty of ways to ascertain an exclusive outdoor setting for the sunny days ahead.