Statement Pieces Perfect for Springtime Entertaining
How to bring classic spring touches to your outdoor oasis
By John Stevens April 23, 2012
This article originally appeared in the May 2012 issue of Seattle magazine.
Here comes the sun! Kick off the spring entertaining season with a fresh take on elegant outdoor style.
A neutral palette of black, white and gray comes alive with pops of soft, sunny yellow. Want to add some panache to your patio? Start with the beautiful basics, like Summer Classics’ Plaza loveseat and chair, featuring a sturdy aluminum frame, Ancient Earth finish and weatherproof houndstooth fabric from Summer House (Southcenter; 1191 Andover Park W; 206.575.2201; summerhousepatio.com). Don’t be afraid to bring indoor furnishings outside for a little designer drama. Add a few key statement pieces, such as Hickory Chair’s sculptural Nadine and sleek Klismos side tables (both sporting soft gray weathered finishes), and Ryan Studio’s luxe striped throw pillows, all from Masins (Bellevue; 10708 Main St.; 425.450.9999; masins.com). Sophisticated seasonal accents are an absolute must, such as marvelous, mossy Campo de Fiori terra-cotta planters, a textural, rope-handled basket, vintage walking sticks and fabulous floral artwork by Vashon artist Mary Margaret Briggs, all from The Arbour (Bellevue; 10028 Main St.; 425.454.1510; thearbourbellevue.com). Stately vintage silver serving pieces paired with etched glassware from The Sophisticated Swine (Bellevue; 11639 NE Eighth St.; 425.452.9300; sophisticatedswine.com) add sparkle and pizzazz, and terrific tableware completes the look. Villeroy & Boch’s classic, toile-inspired Audun pattern is a perfect choice for posh patio parties, from Macy’s (Downtown; 1601 Third Ave.; 206.506.6000; macys.com).
With a few touches of designer style, any space can be patio perfect. Hooray for spring!
John Stevens (john@stevenswilliams.com) is a design writer and publicist.
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