It is finally summer in Portland, which means we are spending as much time as we can outdoors—working, relaxing and of course feasting on all of the PNW bounty. Our patios and backyards have become an extension of our homes and outdoor rooms. The level of curation that you put into an indoor space should be carried through to your outdoor spaces. Equipped with all you need from sunup to sundown, we’ve done the sourcing to help you recreate our favorite seasonal space.
Furniture
A quintessential Parisian bistro table, the Arc En Ciel Folding Table and Chairs are made in Italy of steel with a powdercoated polyester finish that withstands the elements. They both completely fold flat for slim and compact storage. Plus, “arc en ciel” means rainbow in French. C’est magnifique.
A canvas-and-teak adjustable sling chair is perfect for a laid-back afternoon with an iced tea (or margarita) in one hand and a book in the other. Stylish and a classic since the 1920s, sling chairs look good on any patio. Lightweight and low profile, this one from Serena & Lily is a beauty—easy to quickly pick up and go or to fold flat for easy storage.
Lighting
Twinkly overhead lighting adds a feeling of being sheltered while also creating ambiance. Multiple strings of tiny lights remind us of the stars. While there are tons of cheap options at your local store, we recommend investing in a set that is of commercial quality and will withstand being left out to the elements. This cafe-style set with incandescent bulbs can be hooked up to a dimmer, allowing for a wide range of illumination. If tiny pinpoints of light is more your aesthetic, this LED christmas-style cluster is perfection.
Tabletop
Begone the red solo cups of college folly and ubiquitous backyard bbqs! Grasp some style in the gorgeous design of this Seagrass-hugged glassware. From Food52, the tumblers are sold in sets of 6 in a tight weave or open cage pattern and with pitcher or carafe. Pick one pattern or mix and match—you can not go wrong. Simply add your favorite beverage and cheers the summer repeatedly!
Gather Round
Nothing is more emblematic of summer evenings with friends gathered around a fire. As designers, we are always searching for a beautifully composed outdoor fireplace. Here are 2 options that we’re in love with.
We breathed a collective sigh of relief when we were introduced to the Stahl Firepit. Compact and sexy, it is a set of metal plates that ingeniously connect using a slot system. This is a great option for someone who may not need a permanently affixed firepit or wants to set it up seasonally. In varying sizes (and a portable version) with coordinating grill plates, we can easily incorporate them into patios of any size and for those who want to cook over an open fire.
The Rais Gizeh Outdoor Fireplace has been at the top of our list for sometime. Made of thick-gauge Corten steel with a stainless steel grate, this unit is best suited for a larger patio and for long term set-up. Use it as a gathering place for great conversation or even as a cooking spot—it’s our favorite way to prepare clams with lots of butter, parsley, white wine and shallots. Hellooo summer.
Textiles
We always admire strong women-run businesses, entrepreneurs and artisans. Handmade by female Mayan cooperatives in Guatemala, the Luna Zorro San Francisco Throw is a refined option for dressing up your outdoor table, wrapping up in or laying out on. It’s a great multi-purpose staple for any patio.