Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes Are Moving Away From Plain Minimalism in Favor of This Classic Pattern That Transforms Ordinary Outdoor Furniture

Every year at this point in the calendar, as the spring blossoms begin to fade and the warmth of the 2026 summer solstice approaches, we observe the new and exciting furniture trends that influence the most stylish exterior spaces. However, while we look for new inspiration, we continue to revive the patterns and colors that are consistently labeled as timeless – and nobody has nailed this aesthetic quite like Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes.

Mendes, who lives with her husband, Ryan Gosling, recently offered a glimpse of the outdoor furniture they are using to unwind this season. If this footage is anything to go by, they have opted for the most ageless pattern of all: stripes.

Best associated with the nautical design style, stripes are often used to evoke the New England coastal style, which is versatile enough to work in homes far beyond the northeast coast.

Striped furniture, especially in a gray hue like the one seen in the couple's backyard, continues to return to exterior spaces annually – but this is no surprise to designers who say that exterior settings are the best places for such pieces. To get their look, this striped gray pillow from Wayfair is a must, but I've listed some more beautiful options for this summer.

Shop the Striped Outdoor Furniture Edit

'Patterned furniture introduces visual interest and depth to any space. In outdoor settings, where natural elements dominate, adding patterns through cushions, rugs, and even furniture upholstery can break the monotony of plain surfaces,' comments designer Jodi Peterman from Elizabeth Erin Designs.

However, while its good looks are inevitably important, Peterman says these pieces need to be functional, too. 'For instance, in a project, our team designed in Downtown Des Moines with Hubbell Development for Maxwell Apartments, geometric designs, colors, and abstract patterns created focal points that draw the eye and invite guests to explore different areas of the space. A space not only has to look visually appealing, but it needs to function first and foremost,' Peterman explains.

'Using different patterns allows you to play with color and design in ways that plain furniture cannot achieve.'

In the Gosling and Mendes garden, they have kept things timeless with a rich, almost neutral gray-blue color palette that only further emphasizes the nautical aesthetic. However, as Peterman reassures, it is hard to go wrong with any kind of patterned furniture – whether we opt for neutrals or more vibrant hues to match the bright energy of the July sun.

'A bold, patterned outdoor sofa can set the tone for a lively, energetic ambiance, while subtle, intricate patterns can evoke a sense of tranquility and elegance,' she says. 'By choosing patterns that complement the natural surroundings, you can seamlessly blend your outdoor furniture with the landscape, creating a harmonious and inviting environment that you and your guests will enjoy.'

While stripes are the star of the yard, other patterns can bring a similar statement to an exterior space as we move deeper into the 2026 entertaining season.

'Your choice of patterns reflects your personal style and can transform an ordinary outdoor space into a true extension of your home. Whether you prefer classic stripes [like Mendes], playful polka dots, or sophisticated damask patterns, there’s a design to match every taste,' Peterman explains.

'Patterned furniture provides an opportunity to showcase your unique personality and create an outdoor retreat that feels yours authentically! Explore these tips and have fun with them.'

As you curate your own patio or terrace for the 2026 season, remember that staying on-trend doesn’t have to mean reinventing the wheel – sometimes, it simply means looking to the classics.