Outdoor Style

CLASSIC
Inspiring Space: A screened porch sitting area by designer Beth Elsey is as elegant as any indoor room.

Sofa, lounge chairs and coffee table, Veneman Collections. Sofa and chairs covered in Sunbrella fabric. Lanterns above sofa, Holland & Company.

 

“Terracotta pots by Italian Terrace are some of the best I’ve seen in a long time. I was intrigued when I discovered the line because it’s so fresh and different; we’ve used quite a few in our projects.” –Alex Smith, Alex Smith Garden Design

“The days of big and bigger are over. Now, the public is embracing suitable scale in houses and gardens. As both get smaller, the details are more important than ever. We’re having requests for veggies along garden borders, outdoor fireplaces, pools and water-recycling elements.” –Marcia Weber, Gardens to Love

 

 

MODERN
Inspiring Space: A sleek pool area at a contemporary residence in Morningside offers a pared-down approach to outdoor living.

Architecture by Bradley E. Heppner Architecture; landscape architecture by Howard Design Studio; furnishings by Amy D. Morris Interiors

 

“This year, I am using a lot of green and white in planting design. The combination can’t be beat! My favorite greens are boxwood, Pachysandra, fern and holly. Whites to pair with these include Mount Hood, Thalia or Erlicheer Daffodils; Maureen, White Triumphator or Mondial Tulips; or Excelsior White Foxglove. Containers made of zinc or limestone look great with this color combination.” –John Howard, Howard Design Studio

“A favorite new plant of ours is Farfugium; it’s a Japanese plant that works as a great substitute for hosta. Some have big, bold leaves and others, a more crinkly texture. In late fall, they produce big, yellow, daisy-like flowers.” –Bill Hudgins, Lush Life Home & Garden
 

RUSTIC
Inspiring Space: The porch at the Palmetto, Georgia, country home of Jared Paul and Kelley Harris blends southern hospitality with a modern verve.

Vintage table and quilt. Dr. No dining chairs designed by Philippe Stark for Kartell.

 

“Garden is now carrying unique concrete products such as oversize spheres and aerated concrete features and seats. Concrete is mixed with soils, stones and other natural elements to create off-color and lightweight garden ornaments. These one-of-a-kind, handmade features make a flat lawn or a shady nook colorful and architectural.” –Matthew Klyn, Garden

“For spring container gardening and landscaping, I’m drawn to white and gray. I love to use plants with a dusty, grayish tone—like eucalyptus, Dusty miller and Artemisia—because they pair beautifully with whites, blues and emerald greens. I’ll use them all spring.” –Brian James Davis, Cachepot Floral Design & Garden Design