How to Maximize Your Summertime Spaces
By Alexis Chicoye April 24, 2012
This article originally appeared in the April 2012 issue of Seattle magazine.
HOT SEATS
The Paola Lenti outdoor collection, exclusively at Inform Interiors (South Lake Union, 2032 Eighth Ave.; 206.622.1608; informseattle.com), is informed by sultry shapes and radiant colors. We’re drawn to the adjustable chairs bearing Lenti’s signature hand-woven Rope cord fabric, such as the Sand Chair ($2,933 and up), which feature a stainless steel structure and a waterproof seat, and the shapely Wave Chaise Lounge ($6,460 and up).
SLICK SIDE
West Elm’s (South Lake Union, 2201 Westlake; 206.467.5798; westelm.com) minimalist powder-coated, three-tiered Layered Side Table ($149), available in brilliant poppy and polished white, can be right at home indoors, but definitely makes a perfectly petite outdoor iced-tea resting spot.
BRIGHT BAGS
Crate and Barrel’s (University Village, 2680 NE 49th St.; 206.937.9939; crateandbarrel.com) Marimekko Pieni Unikko II Outdoor Bean Bag ($79.95) makes you happy to take a seat. It’s also weather- and UV-ray-resistant and has a built-in handle that makes it a snap to change your location. Be sure to check out Marimekko’s other goods, such as its Melamine Plates ($6.95 each), and its full range of sunny patterns.
WONDERFUL WHIMSY
Anthropologie’s (University Village, 2520 NE University Village St., No 120; 206.985.2101; Downtown, 1509 Fifth Ave.; 206.381.5900; anthropologie.com) romantic style comes through loud and clear in the charming Le Versha Chair ($248). The work of British designer David Le Versha, this curvy, iron garden chair, which draws its influence from classic wrought-iron fencing, comes in four colors and is polished off with an antique finish that will weather the outdoors.
GREEN SWING
Hang in style with Design Within Reach’s (Belltown, 1918 First Ave.; 206.443.9900; dwr.com) Loll Swing ($225) made from repurposed materials, such as old milk jugs and 100 percent recycled plastic. Available in nine bright, fade-resistant hues, this swing is sure to bring color and cheer to your backyard even when not in use. Let the lollygagging begin!
LET THE SUN SHINE
There’s no better way to light up an outdoor space than with simple solar power. IKEA’s (Renton, 601 SW 41st St.; 425.656.2980; ikea-usa.com/seattle) new Solvinden series of lamps, pendants and ground stakes ($14.99–$39.99) converts the energy of the sun and wind into power for warm LED outdoor lighting. Conveniently cordless, these lovely lights will illuminate the night for four to 12 hours. Just leave it to nature.
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