What’s Hot and What’s Not: 5 Must-Have Patio Pieces for the Summer

Early summertime in Texas is the perfect time to enjoy sitting on your patio. From relaxing with a good book, to hosting friends and family, your patio is the perfect summer hotspot. But as with all home decor, there are trends that change with the years. Here’s a look at what’s hot and what’s not, with 5 must-have patio pieces for the summer.

1. Hot: Modular Outdoor Sectionals

Not: Traditional Patio Sets

Gone are the days when a basic table and chairs were enough for your patio. Modular outdoor sectionals are on trend, offering both versatility, and style. These sofas can be rearranged to suit your space or occasion, and provide ample, comfortable seating for guests. Look for weather-resistant materials like rattan or aluminum frames with washable cushions and covers. Modular sectionals allow for creativity and flexibility, and are perfect for spreading out to relax and read, or for entertaining a number of guests.

2. Hot: Outdoor Fire Pits

Not: Basic Patio Heaters

Fire pits are definitely hot – and not just in the literal sense. They’re the new summer essential, perfect for ambiance or even camping inspired snacks and meals. Fire pits serve as a focal point for your space, as well as a communal spot for cozy gatherings. Choose a style that fits with your patio’s size and style – whether it’s a sleep propane fire table, or a rustic wood-burning pit. Make sure to follow the safety guidelines and take care in the placement of your fire pit in relation to walls and ceilings.

3. Hot: Stylish Shade Solutions

Not: Plain Umbrellas

While traditional umbrellas offer protection from the sun, stylish shade solutions like pergolas, sail shades, and cantilever umbrellas provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Pergolas can be adorned with climbing plants or string lights, which creates a whimsical and charming appearance. Sail shades come in a variety of shapes and colors, and add a modern touch while keeping your patio cool. Cantilever umbrellas offer flexibility with their adjustable angles, allowing you to shade different areas throughout the day. These options offer superior sun protection and style to aid in the overall look and feel of your outdoor space.

4. Hot: Outdoor Rugs

Not: Bare Patios

An often overlooked element, outdoor rugs can transform your patio from a plain area into a stylish extension of your home. They add color, texture, and comfort underfoot, making your space feel more inviting. Choose rugs made from durable, weather-resistant materials like polypropylene, which can withstand the intense Texas sun, heat, and rain. Patterns and colors can complement your patio furniture, creating a cohesive and completed look. Bare patios can look stark and unfinished, but outdoor rugs bring warmth and personality to your outdoor space.

5. Hot: Smart Outdoor Lighting

Not: Simple String Lights

While string lights serve their purpose, such as on pergolas or as fence accents, smart outdoor lightning takes ambiance and functionality to the next level. Smart lights can be controlled via mobile apps, enabling you to change colors, adjust brightness, and set schedules. Solar-powered options are eco-friendly and help cut energy costs. Consider a mixture of accent lights like pathway lighting, spotlights, and lanterns to highlight different areas and to create a layered effect through lighting. This sophisticated lighting solution enhances safety and sets the perfect mood for any evening gathering.

Bonus Tips

To further elevate your outdoor space, consider incorporating some of these ideas:

• Greenery: Potted plants, hanging baskets, and vertical gardens can add life and color to your patio, creating a tranquil and natural environment.
• Comfortable Cushions and Throws: To create an outdoor space with a living room feel, invest in high-quality, weather-resistant cushions and throws to make your seating area cozy and inviting. Choose vibrant colors or patterns as accent pieces, or neutrals to tie the space together.
• Outdoor Kitchen or Bar: For those who love entertaining guests, an outdoor kitchen or bar can really level-up your hosting game. Cook and serve meals or snacks without missing any of the fun with these outside entertaining elements.
• Water Features: A small fountain or water wall can add a soothing, serene element to your patio, perfect for unwinding at the end of a long summer day. The running water will prevent mosquitoes from spawning, and you may even catch a bird or two taking a quick sip from the cool, circulating water.

Finding Outdoor Elements with Furniture Source International

From trendy outdoor sectionals, to accent pieces and beyond, Furniture Source International has everything you need to create the perfect patio space. We choose high-quality materials that are resistant to the intense summer weather and sun that Texas is famous for. Come see our expansive showroom to pick out your perfect pieces, or ask us about custom orders if you don’t find exactly what you’re looking for. Texas is getting ready to turn up the heat – so make sure your patio has the hottest features on display this summer.