Bring in the color

When it comes to outdoor accessories, bright colors and bold patterns are the key trends for summer 2013.

“People often think that the outdoor palette only consists of browns and neutrals, but your outdoor space is no place to be boring,” said Aimee Beatty, in-house stylist for Pier 1 Imports.

Jackie Hirschhaut, vice president of public relations and marketing for the American Home Furnishings Alliance, said the vibrant colors point to a sense of optimism and livelier days ahead.

“Outdoor fabrics and finishes include bold pops of color for this season’s outdoor spaces. These graffiti brights include lime green, tangerine orange and vivid blues, from turquoise to azure,” she said.

“We’re seeing it all over the place, but there are lots of blues and citrus colors,” agreed Marissa Brown, vice president and design director for Martha Stewart Living Omnipedia. “They are kind of cheerful colors mixed with bold patterns.”

She said also popular this year are two-tone looks, especially featuring contrasting or coordinating trims.

“Brighter tones liven up the patio, deck, pool area — anywhere everyone gets together outdoors at home,” said Ross Manning, vice president at Tuesday Morning. “Adding new vibrant colors in chair cushions can make a big difference in a seating area.”

Brown said when it comes to outdoor décor, particularly accessories and accents, people are more willing to take a bit of a risk. They will use bold colors or patterns such as chevrons to instantly update their look. Accent pillows are a great way to accomplish this.

It’s a bit like adding hardware to your kitchen cabinets, she said.

“Let your décor reflect the best in summer by accessorizing with fun, whimsical accessories,” Beatty said. “Pier 1 Imports’ outdoor collection is full of characters and movement. From frog-shaped garden stools and colorful indoor/outdoor wall art, to whimsical planters and our signature Swingasan (part swing, part Papasan chair), there’s no shortage of décor that will be a hit this summer.”

Manning said ceramic stools are great summer accessories. They are fun and functional and can double as side tables. They also are popular because they can be moved easily to anywhere in the yard extra seating or table space is needed.

“Most come in great manageable sizes, 17-20 inches high, with a seat area 12-15 inches diameter. They are fun, practical and inexpensive,” Manning said.

You also can update and add a touch of fun with traditional and practical accents such as umbrellas, which can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, Manning said.

Another hot accessory for outdoor spaces this year is lanterns.

“Lanterns are very much ‘in.’ They come in wonderful, bright, vibrant colors like red, yellow, lime green and orange to really give a lift to that patio table,” Manning said.

Beatty said the lanterns keep the mood bright, and you can add interest and variety to the look with hurricanes and candles around the patio.

To reduce the risk of fire hazards and keep the lights burning during breezy conditions, Beatty and Manning suggest using light-emitting diode candles, some of which can be operated by remote control.

You can also bring in pattern and color with an outdoor rug, which also helps make the space feel cozier and provides a cohesive look.

“A rug sets the foundation for the environment,” Brown said.

You can put a rug under or around an area, such as a deep seating group, to tie everything together or define a space. It works just as it does for an inside space, she added.

“There are so many great rug options for outdoor use. There are also indoor/outdoor rugs that can be used in the house or on the patio,” Manning said. “Color is great for an outdoor area and so many of today’s outdoor rugs offer that opportunity to spice up the patio.”

When selecting a rug that will be used outdoors, Manning said to “choose a rug that will stand up to the elements. Polypropylene material is best for outdoor use. Don’t purchase a rug that is not intended to be used outdoors; it may look nice but it won’t last and give you the enjoyment and value you want.”

He also recommends being careful with sizes, making sure your furniture sits nicely on the rug. “A rug that is too big for the space looks out of place and one that is too small can make the seating arrangement awkward.

“Also, outdoor rugs, while able to let rain and water through will not be able to keep up with a summer thunderstorm or deluge so be aware of where your patio drain may be and roll the rug off the drain before the downpour, if it normally covers it.”