As we drain every last drop of summer sun, it's only natural for thoughts to turn to fall decor, but in my case, I'm already fantasizing about spring/summer 2026. Specifically, I've started thinking about the type of furniture I want on my patio, partly because I can invest now to ensure I have what I want ahead of time (and enjoy my pieces for a few more weeks before the seasons change).
Choosing a color that will look just as chic a year from now means relying on a tried-and-true neutral, and Dwayne Johnson just made that choice simpler. The Rock shared a glimpse of his patio, in which I spotted a light gray loveseat that reminded me of this color's eternal power.
While some designers have debated gray's influence over recent months, Dwayne's outdoor furniture makes a case for this versatile neutral. His photo dates back to 2021, but his seat (and pillow) look just as stylish in 2025. It's a sign I can trust it to remain just as beautiful for next summer, and almost certainly the one after that.
Shop the gray patio furniture edit
Perfect for relaxing long into the evening, this your go-to for cozy outdoor seating with a friend (or a good book). It's designed to withstand the elements, making it a reliable choice for your patio or garden, no matter the weather.
You don't need a sofa to follow The Rock's example. Add some greenery to your patio with this sleek, low planter. It's the perfect way to tap into this versatile color without a sizeable investment.
This spacious three-seater sofa provides comfy cushions and ample seating, perfect for entertaining, the Dwayne Johnson way. Each piece is hand-finished, resulting in a smooth and flawless surface that exudes high-end quality, sure to last for many summers long.
If you've already decorated with gray indoors, you'll know how versatile this tone can be. It's unitrusive, meaning you can decorate it with bolder pillows without overwhelming your space, but it also looks stunning when used as a stand-alone color (as we see on Dwayne Johnson's patio). Keeping things understated also allows the greens of your garden to steal the attention they deserve, as designers explain.
'Gray outdoor furniture with a minimalistic design offers a sleek, modern look that’s visually calming and stylish,' comments Mike Durbridge, the CEO of Andrew Martin. 'In outdoor spaces, its understated tones blend effortlessly with the natural surroundings, allowing the beauty of the landscape to take center stage.'
Bo Hellberg, the CMO at Scandinavian design icon String Furniture, agrees. He emphasizes how gray outdoor furniture serves as the ultimate canvas – the perfect base for any other accessories you might want to bring to your garden.
'Gray is a timeless neutral that brings calm, depth, and understated elegance to any space. Its adaptability means it can be layered for a soft, cocooning feel or paired with bold colours and natural textures to create contrast and interest,' he says.
'The complexity of the shade also makes it an exceptional partner to a wide range of wood finishes, from rich, dark walnut to bright ash, offering endless styling possibilities.'
Are you planning ahead for summer 2026? Your dream garden begins now.
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