Summer is knocking, the grill is calling, and your backyard is full of potential just waiting to be unlocked. Whether you’re staring at a blank slate patio or a space that’s been crying out for a refresh, getting your outdoor area dialed in doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it’s kind of the fun part. Let’s break it down.

Start With the “Why”: What Do You Want Your Space to Do?

Before you fall in love with a sectional or a fire pit (we get it, it happens fast), ask yourself one simple question: How do I actually want to use this space?

Are you the host with the most, dreaming of long summer dinner parties with friends gathered around a beautifully set table? Or maybe your version of paradise is a loungy, laid-back setup where nobody has anywhere to be. Poolside chaise moments with a cold drink? Evening fire pit conversations that go way too late on a Tuesday? All of it is valid. All of it is achievable.

Knowing your “why” makes every decision after it so much easier:

• Dining: A quality outdoor dining set, maybe with a shade solution like a Tuuci umbrella overhead, sets the scene perfectly.
• Lounging: Think deep-seated sofas and sectionals built for sinking in, like the beautiful teak pieces from Bouteak or the effortlessly cool designs from Brown Jordan
• Poolside: Chaises, a shade umbrella from Treasure Garden, and easy-clean materials that can handle the splash zone like pieces from Houe.
• Fire gatherings: A central fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs or cozy club chairs makes for a magical evening setup, every single time.

Pin down your purpose and you’ve already done the hard part.

Space Is Everything: Size It Up Before You Shop

Here’s the truth: space determines everything. A piece that looks perfect online can completely overpower a small balcony, or completely disappear on a large patio. Knowing what you’re working with keeps you from making expensive mistakes.

Large patios and decks are a dream to work with. You have room to create multiple zones: a dining area over here, a lounge situation over there, maybe a bar cart tucked in the corner and a fire pit to anchor it all. Think of it like designing rooms, just outdoors and with better views. 

Small spaces like balconies, front porches, or compact patios are absolutely worth investing in. A couple of well-chosen chairs, a small bistro table, and a little greenery can turn even the tiniest spot into your favorite place to be. Fermob’s iconic French bistro pieces were literally made for this.

Mid-size spaces are the sweet spot for flexibility. Want dining AND a lounge corner? You can do both. This is where a thoughtful layout really pays off and where our designers love to work their magic.

Measure twice, dream once, and let the space guide you.

Now the Really Fun Part: Your Style

This is where your personality gets to show up. Outdoor furniture has come a long way, and the range of styles, materials, and vibes out there is genuinely exciting.

Classic and natural? Think warm teak, clean lines, and that timeless lake-house or cabin feel. Bouteak and Ethnicraft do beautiful things with solid wood that only get better with age. Adirondack chairs from Loll Designs made from recycled materials check every box for durability and charm.

Contemporary and sleek? Deep cushions, clean silhouettes, and sophisticated material choices. Brown Jordan has been defining elevated outdoor living for decades, and Jensen Outdoor brings a beautiful Scandinavian sensibility to the mix.

Parisian patio vibes? Fermob’s powder-coated metal pieces are as charming as they are tough, in a color palette that’ll make your neighbors stop and stare.

Something that can take a beating? Modified wood and high-performance materials give you the look of natural wood with the durability to handle whatever Vermont throws at it, rain, snow, sunshine, and everything in between. Something our designers recommend here are comfortable pieces by Loll Designs or Trex Outdoors

Whatever direction you lean, there’s a look that’s distinctly you waiting out there.

Ready to Make It Happen? We’re Here for It.

Getting your outdoor space right is equal parts exciting and a little bit a lot. That’s exactly why our team of designers is here: to help you take all of those ideas swirling around in your head and turn them into a space that genuinely works for your life, your budget, and your backyard.

And there’s nothing quite like seeing things in person. Stop by our Burlington Outdoor showroom to walk through full setups, touch the materials, sink into the cushions, and get a real feel for what clicks for you. Some things you just have to experience to know.

Come see us. Bring your inspiration photos, or just your curiosity. Our designers are ready to help you build the outdoor space you’ve been dreaming about all winter.

Book a Design Consultation  |  Visit Our Showroom