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Color Corner: Outdoor Fabrics |
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Written by Missy Allison
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Monday, 24 August 2009 |
As the weather of the season continues to beckon us outdoors into mid-autumn, it is a lovely time of year to consider your outdoor spaces and furnishings. Late summer is when retailers discount their outdoor merchandise, which provides an opportunity to upgrade or simply update at generous savings. For custom looks, there has never been a better time to peruse the selection in outdoor fabrics and bedeck your exteriors with upholstered coverings, companion pillows, and even draperies.
Yesterday’s outdoor fabrics were thick and hearty, designed to withstand the elements of rain and shine, and were available in solids and awning stripes almost exclusively.
Contemporary looks in outdoor fabrics are blurring the line between inside and outside with textures like silk, satin, velveteen, and chenille, all with mold, mildew, fade, and water-resistant finishes.
The sumptuous look and feel of these fabrics bring the comfort of the indoors to your outdoor spaces.
The diversity of patterns, weaves, and colors can be splashy and bold, or mimic the look of your indoor furnishings by creating a seamless transition.
Outdoor fabric pioneer and industry standard, Sunbrella, has embraced the modern styles and textures with fervor, offering some beautiful choices.
Other makers with fabulous outdoor coverings are: Waverly, Duralee, the Soleil collection by Kravet, and the Groundworks collection by Lee Jofa.
Utilizing the resource library of your local interior designer or visiting local fabric stores and design centers will introduce you to the virtually unlimited selection.
Outdoor fabrics and furnishings have morphed into extensions of our indoor lives, placing a high importance on look, feel, and comfort. Breathe life into your outdoor living areas and enjoy them long into the season.
Missy Allison is an area interior designer and co-owner of www.luckystargallery.com. |
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