Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo Ditch Bland Neutrals for This Florida Patio Trend – It Makes Wicker Look So Luxe
The couple is rewriting the rules of outdoor decorating by pairing traditional woven wicker with a rich, vintage-inspired print
When we think of South Florida's most luxe patios, our minds are likely to envision (somewhat predictable) neutrals. While there's nothing inherently wrong with neutral-toned cushions (they're a classic, after all), these hues can risk feeling flat and uninspiring. This is where we can learn from Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo.
On their Fort Lauderdale patio, the couple has embraced a pattern-forward outdoor furniture trend that stands in stark contrast to conventional neutrals.
By styling a classic wicker sofa with rich blue damask cushions (similar to this one at Amazon), they've created a high-contrast look that's just as comforting as its softer counterparts. It's a masterclass in injecting personality into patio furniture, proving you don't have to sacrifice color to achieve peak luxury.
Shop the Messi-Inspired Edit
While this cushion flips the color ratio (Antonela’s has a dark background with dusty blue motifs, whereas this is navy motifs on a light background), it offers the exact same aesthetic. It's the perfect fit for a wicker upgrade.
The cushions on Messi's patio feature a formal, traditional damask pattern. The KLÖSAN (designed by S Edholm and L Ullenius) features a much more modern, abstract motif. It’s chic, but in a casual, Scandinavian way.
Antonela’s sofa looks expensive because the cushions are so thick and plush, not flat and flimsy. These feature a classic tufted design (sewn tightly with buttons or stitches to create dimples), for that same, high-quality look.
I love how effortlessly this sofa fits into a patio or outdoor living room. The warm acacia wood gives it a timeless feel, while the simple design makes it easy to dress up with patterned cushions (Messi style) and a cozy throw.
This sofa has a neutral backdrop that you can easily update with cushions and throws as the seasons change. The all-weather design means it's built to last, and if you're hoping to recreate Messi's outdoor style, this feels like the perfect place to start.
A rattan armchair brings the comfort and style of indoor furniture outside. The sculptural frame gives it a considered feel, while the cushioned seat makes it great for evenings on the patio. It's the perfect spot for an Aperol Spritz.
This design choice exhibits how a classic material can be transformed into something more beautiful. However, achieving this level of comfort comes down to creating a true 'outdoor living room' and choosing the right foundation. Once again, in this case Messi's choice reigns supreme.
'More durable than its natural counterpart, synthetic rattan is the most popular material for garden furniture. UV-resistant and woven around rustproof powder-coated aluminum frames, our rattan furniture can be left out in the sun without worrying about damage,' comments Alex Bridgman, the CEO of Bridgman.
'Incredibly easy to clean, simply wipe down with a cloth and warm soapy water to keep your rattan pieces looking their best. We always recommend opting for a full round rattan weave over half round for unmatched comfort and premium style. The tightness of a furniture’s rattan weave can also indicate its quality, with a loose, unstable weave suggesting that the product will not last.'
While we only see one corner of Messi's patio, Alex recommends investing in more vintage-inspired wicker outdoor furniture to create an outdoor living room space you'll want to use well into late summer and fall.
'Outdoor living rooms are a great way to make your outdoor seating area look chic and expensive,' he says.
'To create a seamless flow from indoors to out, pick soft and comfortable furniture that aligns with the style of your home, with a classic choice such as rattan. To truly capture that luxurious living room feel, opt for a modular furniture set, perfect for basking in the sunshine.'
Even when the World Cup finishes, you'll find us on an outdoor sofa just like Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo's.
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