Of all the reasons to love an Outer sofa (comfort, durability, the OuterShell), we often hear that versatile styling is high on the list. We intentionally designed our sofa to support a variety of aesthetics (modern, traditional, vintage, bohemian), rather than define them. Accessorizing an outdoor space adds warmth, personality, and visual appeal — and makes it even nicer to spend time outside.
We asked two of our talented designer Hosts, Erin Wheeler of Sunny Circle Studio and Geri del Vento, how they liven up their outdoor seating areas, exactly what pieces they use, and the links for where to buy them. Read on for some sage advice and to shop their beautiful backyards.
Erin Wheeler @ Sunny Circle Studio
Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Wheeler’s outdoor area — a spacious deck overlooking lush trees and greenery — is an extension of her styling and design aesthetic: beautifully modern and perfectly inviting. She plays with different patterns and textures to add visual eye candy. Strands of cafe lights wash everything in a muted glow after dark.
“I got a chance to get outside and spruce up my patio this weekend and was so excited to add the (yet-to-be-released) Outer rug into the mix! We rearranged all of the furniture to make the space feel larger and more open, and I love how the rug grounds the space and provides a bit of texture and softness. Speaking of texture, the sofa steals the show!
“I kept the overall styling pretty simple — bringing in a couple of throw pillows, a throw blanket, and plenty of flowers to make the space feel cozy and comfortable.”
Shop Erin’s Gorgeous Patio
Hot Mesh Lounge Chairs (available in multiple colors)
For the modernist: these sleek, stylish, and comfortable seats are bold without being overwhelming.
Black and White Embroidered Throw Pillows
The Outer sofa’s neutral, solid fabric makes accessorizing with throw pillows a fun way to change up decor season after season.
Elevate the entire space with Carrera marble, seen here as a polished wheel atop a tidy steel base.
A must for outdoor living areas — some sun protection makes it possible (and more enjoyable) to sit outside all day long.
Enjoy the patio well after sunset in a lighting scheme that flatters the space beautifully — and everyone in it.
Geri del Vento
This Miami mama never ceases to inspire with her hot takes on style, design, and DIY decor. Her Instagram is loaded with fun (and practical) ideas on everything from kids’ birthday parties to exterior design. To celebrate summer’s arrival, del Vento shows us the power of pairing neutrals with a pop of color.
“I LOVE classic muted, neutral colors and timeless design pieces. They transition from season to season very well. To make my designs relevant seasonally I add a pop of color. As seen here with my Outer sofa, I went with black, white, tan, and pop of yellow (for summer!).
“Second, I like to pick furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes. Win-win! For example: my stools serve as side tables. If I need more seating, I use them for that instead. Lastly, I add a few accessories, like a lantern and plant, to cozy up the space.”
Shop Geri’s Fun and Festive Set-Up
A touch whimsical and a touch practical. Great for housing bug-repelling candles.
When life hands you fake lemons, use them as decor — and your pop of color.
Two unique patterns (color block and herringbone) in neutral colors offer some pattern and visual texture, but make it easy to change your color palette for the season.
Just like the Outer comes with its own built-in protection, these festive side tables double as stools when there are more butts to accommodate.
