Bedroom 4
Tackle rich tones Warm wood and terracotta might not sound like natural bedfellows, but this divine dining space shows how well the two can work together. Mid-century furniture has the clean lines and simplistic shapes required to carry off all kinds of creative colour combinations. Go for green accents, including plenty of plants, to stave off any ‘1980s peach’ associations (in case you don’t remember, it was a particularly sickly shade of the soft fruity hue).
Consider your entertaining styleAlso think carefully about how you like to entertain. “If you like to host sit-down meals, then a large outdoor dining table and comfortable chairs are key,” says Smith. “If cooking for a crowd isn’t your thing, then outdoor lounge seating is great for relaxing with a glass of wine.”If space is tight, look for flexible pieces that be adapted for the occasion. “Ceramic stools can be used as side tables or seating, or they can be clustered together to form one large coffee table,” Smith adds.Other space-savvy designs to consider include outdoor coffee tables with storage for items such as cushions and table accessories, and platform-style sofas that boast built-in ledges where you pop a glass of wine or a plate of nibbles.
Understand upholstery A subtle way to incorporate this colour is on fabric, and little is more elegant in a living room than a neat upholstered armchair. Don’t be afraid to steer away from a matching suite and choose a different style and fabric to your sofa. This debonair duo sit pretty thanks to their classic straight-armed design, which will weather the years wonderfully.
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