Trendy or Timeless? Vol.7
It’s that time again, where I take a moment over the weekend to flick through my growing magazine collection and try to decide which home and interior design trends have stood the test of time. From wallpaper and kitchen details to bathroom tiles and soft furnishings, I’ve covered quite a few topics in this series so far, but today we’re heading outdoors!
With the signs of Summer giving us all a little pep in our steps, it won’t be long now until late afternoons and lazy Sundays spent relaxing out in the sun are on the cards. There is nothing quite like a good Kiwi Summer and that’s why as a country we are pretty passionate about some quality outdoor furniture.
Getting creative with outdoor living has no limits, with benches, swing seats, firepits, umbrellas and an infinite number of additions that can turn your outdoor space into an extension of your home. But no matter what budget or size you’re working with, there’s one piece of outdoor furniture that’s a non-negotiable, a cosy place to sit!
So, for this instalment of Trendy or Timeless I had a flick through some magazines dating back to 2017 and pulled some of the outdoor seating options that to me feel truly timeless. Of course, any area of design or decorating should reflect your own personal style and taste, but if you’ve been looking to invest in some outdoor seating for the warmer months ahead and you’re not quite sure where to start, look no further…
01 - The Beanbag
It’s a classic for a reason, the trusty beanbag is one of those pieces that will never go out of style. It’s comfortable, durable, easy to move around and often pretty cost effective, you can’t go wrong!
Whilst there are plenty of great beanbags on the market, I personally think investing in a quality option is key. Hard wearing outer covers are absolutely worth the higher price tag, we have a few Isla Chairs from Coast in our own garden and they’ve endured several Summers and windy Welly Winters with ease.
Coast Isla Chair - Fern
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Beanz Ultra Big Bean - Slate Green
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MM Linen Kalo Outdoor Bean Chair - Ochre
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02 - The Acapulco Chair
The Acapulco or mid-century egg shaped outdoor chair is another style that feels pretty timeless to me. It was popping up in design magazines in 2017 just as much as it is today. We actually owned two chairs of this style purchased from Bunnings a while back and despite their stylish architectural shape, they’re some of the comfiest outdoor chairs out there, maybe even second to the beanbag!
The Acapulco chair style is one that can be found in so many different colours and shapes, many of which being very cost effective and if taken care of properly can be enjoyed for many Summers to come.
Living & Co Acapulco Chair - Green
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Design Warehouse Abbey Outdoor Lounge Chair
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Home Lab Store Piha Lounger - Fern
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03 - HAY Palissade
It wouldn’t be a conversation about outdoor seating without mentioning my absolute favourite, HAY Palissade. These iconic outdoor seats are definitely timeless, although they’ve undoubtedly had their moments of appearing in just about every outdoor living arrangement in design mags!
With a more expensive price tag, I saved up to treat myself to the HAY Palissade table and chairs a couple of years ago and they still bring me just as much joy as they did the day they arrived. Although they lean more on the side of form over function, you can purchase matching cushions that make these chairs a bit more comfy for long Summer afternoons.
If you’re not in the market to invest in the real deal, there are plenty of HAY Palissade inspired options out there that are much more cost effective and still achieve that magazine worthy look.
Early Settler Jesi 2 Seater - Tea Rose
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HAY Palissade Lounge Chair - Low
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HAY Palissade Lounge Chair - High
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04 - The Arnold Circus Stool
The Arnold Circus Stool is a piece of furniture that’s been popping up in design magazines for years and with their huge assortment of colours and stylish shape, they’re definitely a timeless stool. These little gems can be used inside or as side tables or stools outdoors, they’re durable, easy to move around and great for adding a pop of colour to your outdoor living arrangement.
We have the pink Arnold Circus Stool in our back living room currently and in those Summer months it becomes the perfect little portable side table to house a glass of wine or cheeseboard on a sunny afternoon.
A&C Homestore Arnold Circus Stool - Pink
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A&C Homestore Arnold Circus Stool - Cocoa
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A&C Homestore Arnold Circus Stool - Sage
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