Since more Canadians are treating outdoor spaces like rooms in their homes, Western Living asked Melina Tai, manager of Ginger Jar Furniture to share her tips on creating the perfect outdoor retreat. To view the article, visit: westernliving.ca/shopping/5-tips-on-creating-your-outdoor-oasis/
1. Mix and Match
Melina recommends applying indoor concepts outdoors, saying, “it’s not necessary to exclusively use one manufacturer or collection to keep decor cohesive.” Instead, pick and choose a mix of styles, shapes and materials, and add an iconic piece to make your space stand apart from the crowd.
2. Natural and Organic
“Design trends are veering towards organic and natural,” says Melina, “as well as the rounded look.” Stone-, marble-, and ceramic-look tabletops are also on trend and stand the test of time with next-to-no upkeep. To add longevity to your décor, Melina suggests choosing neutral upholstery and adding pops of colour and pattern with pillows, throws, and tableware, which can easily be updated.
3. Performance Umbrellas
No one wants to be forced indoors because of insufficient shade. Umbrellas should be large enough to shade an area without overcrowding your space. Wheeled-base umbrellas or those with flexible tilting or rotating arms offer mobile shade. Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics deliver superior resistance to fading and degradation from sunlight and chemical exposure.
4. Light Up Summer Nights
Canadian summers are brief, so why not use contemporary outdoor lighting to maximize outdoor time? Ginger Jar has a wide range of plug-in or portable options, plus furniture and planters that illuminate.
5. Finishing Touch: Planter
Planters create synergy between nature and outdoor furniture, and they’re a great way to divide space and add privacy. Showcase your plant collection with several planters in similar colors, materials, or styles, or inject some height with tall planters. Ginger Jar has diverse shapes, sizes, and colours available in store (and more by special order), making it easy to find distinctive and durable planters to complement your decor.
