It's nearly patio season, and with that, we are thinking about ways to make these outdoor living spaces feel as serene and inviting as possible. Bright whites do the trick: with their cooling properties and soft ambiance, they make a great fit for outdoor furniture, from chairs to tables.
Courteney Cox is on board with the peaceful hue; having recently posted a video to her Instagram page of her sprawling yard, featuring a patio space fitted with white lounge chairs and a matching, white wood coffee table. The light pieces complement the surrounding greenery and gray, wood deck slabs beautifully – and it's a design choice that experts say will last for years to come.
White's adaptability and classic, calming nature are what make it such a popular design option for outdoor furniture, experts say.
'Few choices evoke crisp elegance and versatility as much as white patio furniture in outdoor décor,' says Nina Lichtenstein, Founder and Principal Home Designer at her eponymous company. 'Whether it's a classic wrought iron set, sleek modern pieces in resin, or chic rattan designs, white patio furniture effortlessly complements a range of styles while allowing for creativity in outdoor spaces.'
Nina Lichtenstein is the founder and principal home designer at her eponymous design studio, based in Westchester, NY. Nina believes that home design should capture a family’s unique spirit by how it serves the family's daily needs while nourishing the soul. She has been celebrated for designing, renovating, and building elegant living spaces.
The caveat of white furniture is that because it's so adjustable, there are endless choices for decor pairings. Lichtenstein offers a tried and true idea for inspiration:
'Go for timeless appeal by pairing white furniture with navy blue cushions or throw pillows, evoking a nautical theme,' she suggests. 'Add striped accents or crisp white umbrellas for a more elevated look.'
For those looking for a more minimal scheme, Lichtenstein recommends combining white furniture with clean lines, geometric patterns, and bold pops of color.
While timeless, white outdoor furniture can also be chosen based on material and shade to evoke current trends.
'With its association with coastal aesthetics and Mediterranean style, white patio furniture plays a starring role in evoking breezy, seaside-inspired settings,' Lichtenstein says.
Meanwhile, selecting white furniture made of natural materials, like bamboo or rattan, taps into an eco-friendly frontier.
To keep white furniture looking as crisp and fresh as it does upon purchase, Lichtenstein suggests diligent upkeep.
'Clean white furniture regularly with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt, dust, and grime,' she states. 'For stubborn stains, use a mixture of vinegar and water or specialized outdoor furniture cleaners.'
She also encourages applying a protective coating or sealant on certain materials to enhance resistance against UV rays and moisture, and therefore avoid discoloration.
Shop the look
Below, we have rounded up some white, patio-ready pieces.
