1. Consider the space
The first step in planning outdoor areas is to consider the size of the space, and how you want to use it. Is it compact to allow for a small café table and chairs, or slightly larger for relaxing lounge chairs – or perhaps it’s large enough for sun loungers and a dining table with drinks area. Knowing the space you have to work with, and how people will interact within it is key. Ensure pieces selected are right for the space and how it will be used, avoid crowding the area.
2. Ensure flexibility
Flexibility is key. Assess how you want to entertain in the space – for example, with a growing family, consider stacking chairs, stools, benches or modular lounging pieces to host those unexpected guests! Pairing a table with chairs on one side and a bench seat on the other so it can be multi-purpose is one option. It’s better to have a flexible approach that you can reduce and expand where required. What you leave out, is just as important as what you include!
Because we make-to-order at Tait, items can be powder coated in the same colour, or you can have a harmonious collection in fun, tonal colours that work together, ensuring a cohesive space.
3. Layer
Layers help to create a warm and inviting area for sharing a meal, enjoying the sunshine and making memories. Furniture should sit happily within the space, without dominating. Considering what extras you can add in to build a more complete look with maximum wow factor is always a good idea! Layering nesting tables, drink trolleys, firepits, umbrellas, cushions and planters that can be moved easily when gathering is a great option as they add depth and ensure the space looks lived in. Greenery is wonderful to add life to a space too – Tait has some great planters on wheels so they can be moved seasonally and easily watered.
4. Blend colour, materials and natural elements
If you can see the outdoor space from the house it’s good to have a flow through of colours, materials and natural elements for consistency of design. Look to the garden or building materials to complement your outdoor space and create an entertaining oasis with lush garden plants. Adding to this, consider whether there is a style the furniture should reference – a tropical garden, modern minimal or a retro space – perhaps a Palm Springs vibe. If you want the space to be long lasting, keep the colour palette more neutral and always try to reference the house building materials as a guide, bringing colour in with fabrics and scatters.
Australian earthy tones which complement building materials, architecture styles and native plants are increasingly utilised. For colours – green is still really big, and rust and brown has made a big comeback. Textured fabrics, powder coats, boucles and weaves are everywhere. I’m thrilled to see comfort, longevity of materials and sustainability becoming important as people increasingly consider where products come from.
5. Invest in quality pieces
Buy beautiful quality that works hard outside and is low-maintenance, allowing more time to enjoy life! Luxe finishes, such as porcelain which we include on our Trace Dining Table, or mirror polish on the Swing Chair, create an inviting, stylish environment – a sanctuary! In the same way you decorate indoors, there’s a lot of options outdoors.
If you’re planning your outdoor space for Summer visit our website or book a design consultation in one of our showrooms in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, and celebrate Summer with Tait.
Well-designed, well-made outdoor products that are both reflective of Australia’s enviable outdoor lifestyle and built to withstand the harsh Australian elements are important. Make sure you select UV-safe powder coat materials and be realistic about how much maintenance you want to do. A simple cleaning and maintenance program is ideal, just like a car, it’s good to wash things down. Invest wisely!
BROWSE OUR RANGE
World-renowned for his design innovation and distinct Australian aesthetic, we recently sat down with our friend and frequent collaborator, the very talented Adam Goodrum to share more about our Voom collection.
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With another successful year drawing to a close the Tait team would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support.
This year marked 30 years of Tait being owned and operated in Australia, committed to shining a light on Australian designers and creating high performance pieces for local and global audiences.
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We sat down with Susan Tait, Creative Director of Tait to find out the top 5 items to consider when planning the perfect outdoor entertaining space.
1. Consider the space
2. Ensure flexibility
3. Layer
4. Blend colour, materials and natural elements
5. Invest in quality pieces
The 2023 Interior Design Excellence Awards was full of innovative design and talent last night, with our Voom Collection Highly Commended in the ‘Object, Furniture, Lighting – Professional’ category. To be acknowledged is always a huge honour, recognising the work of our entire team to bring the Voom Collection to life. Huge congratulations to Tait designer, Ross Gardam for winning the category with his innovative Volant chandelier, a modern chandelier that’s akin to a kinetic sculpture, also made in Melbourne.
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We are thrilled to be part of the brand new The Design Files Design Directory – launched this week! Featuring Tait products from our Voom Lounger to Swing Chair, Seam Dining Chair to the Trace Drinks Trolley, it’s a haven of design inspiration.
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Warmer weather and longer days are just around the corner. Bring your holiday home this Summer with Tait and transform your outdoor space in time for the New Year. With just six weeks left to place your order for guaranteed pre-Xmas delivery, now is the time to be planning which table you’ll be entertaining at, or which lounge you’ll be relaxing on this holiday season.
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