Consumers crave comfort and eco-friendly fare
YSN Staff
Renson, which provides ventilation, shading and outdoor solutions for homeowners, has identified several key trends for backyard design in 2024.
Inside Out
This year, the boundaries between the inside and outside of homes continue to blur (sometimes literally, by extending a floor from the interior to the patio). The growing popularity of outdoor kitchens, often elaborately fitted with the latest contemporary must-haves, is one reflection of this trend, Renson said. But interior looks in outdoor spaces are especially popular when it comes to comfort and design, with “cozy rugs, sumptuous cushions and weather-resistant fabrics” all contributing to an inviting and relaxing outdoor environment.
Case in point: Flexsteel, which has transformed of its best-selling indoor Sky collection into the new Sky Outdoor grouping. Designed for the great outdoors, the collection maintains the same high level of comfort and style as the indoor version, Flexsteel said, but with added durability and weather resistance to meet the demands of outdoor living. The line includes customizable modular sofas, chairs, ottomans and sectional pieces made from weather-resistant fabrics and sturdy marine-grade wood frames, plus cushions filled with CloudLux, the company’s down-like polyester. The latter provides a sumptuous feel, while included weather-proof protective covers maintain the furniture’s functionality and aesthetic.
Au Naturale
Those who prefer spending time outside are usually fans of natural materials, Renson noted. Wood is a particular favorite, as it “blends seamlessly into its surroundings and radiates tranquility,” the company said. Wood and other natural materials that provide easy maintenance and long lifespan are often incorporated into garden furniture.
Go Green
Closely related to natural materials and equally in demand are sustainable components and techniques. Not surprisingly, environmentally conscious solutions are wending their way into outdoor living, as consumers are even more likely to reflect on the importance of protecting the environment when surrounded by greenery, Renson suggested. “We are becoming ever more aware of our ecological footprint and are seeking ways to reduce it,” the company said.
The good news is homeowners can now readily achieve a comfortable and personalized outdoor space with a low environmental impact when designing their outdoor living spaces by opting for sustainable materials, Renson said.
