Euro Summer: Outdoor styling by Zoe Murphy from Mobilia
Teleisha Thomas
October 2024With many travellers returning from their summer holidays abroad, the Mediterranean lifestyle has inspired many to embrace the design aesthetic and to infuse it into their living spaces with that same sense of relaxation and effortless style.
In this article, renowned interior stylist, Zoë Murphy from Mobilia shares her top tips on how to curate your own custom Euro-inspired outdoor living space.
Ficupala Outdoor Table Lamp | Designed by Cassina Studio for Cassina
How to curate your own custom outdoor oasis
"There is growing demand for tailored furniture options, as homeowners seek to infuse personal style into key investment pieces. Beloved brands Kettal and Cassina, offer customisation of furniture configuration, colour, material, and hardware."
Materials
Opt for natural textures such as wood, wicker, bamboo, rattan, and stone to create a warm and inviting Mediterranean feel. Incorporate textured fabrics like linen, cotton, and canvas for cushions, pillows, and outdoor rugs. Add tactile elements like ceramic tiles, terracotta pots, and woven baskets to introduce depth and interest to your outdoor space.
For outdoor furniture pieces that will withstand the elements, choose materials that are durable and weather-resistant, such as teak and aluminium. Consider using ceramic tiles and terracotta pottery to add Mediterranean flair to your outdoor decor. Incorporate natural materials like marble, aggregate stone, teak and cedar for tabletops, countertops for an authentic look.
Trampoline Modular Sofa | Designed by Patricia Urquiola for Cassina
One of my favourite outdoor pieces from Mobilia is the stylish and durable Giro Collection. The core idea and research behind the collection by architect Vincent Van Duysen was about rope, using it in a different way by sewing each piece together to create the shape of the product itself.
Colours
For a coastal vibe, a colour palette inspired by the Mediterranean landscape, including shades of blue, white, terracotta, olive green, and earth tones, help bring that Euro summer escape home.
Use bold and vibrant hues like cobalt blue, turquoise, and ochre to add pops of colour and create a lively and cheerful atmosphere.
For those looking for something different, consider incorporating playful and unexpected patterns to enhance the overall ambiance of your outdoor space.
"Patricia Urquiola for Cassina, interprets the happiness of life outdoors with a collection full of playful designs with rounded and sinuous shapes. The Trampoline collection is stylish yet spirited and is available in a range of different sizes and settings."
Giro Modular Sofa | Designed by Vincent Van Duysen for Kettal
Spatial planning
The first step in styling outdoor furniture is selecting the right pieces for your space. Consider the size of your outdoor area and how you plan to use it. If you have a small patio or balcony, opt for multi-function pieces like a low set dining set. For larger spaces, consider creating zones for a more formal dining set, modular sofa or a pavilion.
Focal point
To anchor your outdoor furniture arrangement, create a focal point such as a fire pit, statement dining table or conversational modular sofa. This will help define the space and give your outdoor area a central gathering spot for entertaining and relaxing. These focal points can help draw the eye and create a sense of cohesion within each zone.
Mesh Modular Sofa Designed by Patricia Urquiola for Kettal | Pavilion Designed by Kettal Studio for Kettal
"Inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle of beach clubs on the coast, Cassina have introduced low dining sets, inviting multi-use of the furniture for either lounging and relaxing or enjoying a meal. Designed to shade and cool or protect from the elements, Kettal Pavilions are customisable structures, available in various sizes and configurations."
Complimenting hues and patterns
To create a cohesive look, choose outdoor furniture pieces that complement each other in terms of colour and pattern. Consider using a colour scheme that complements your home's exterior or existing outdoor décor. Mixing and matching different materials and textures that compliment each other on the colour wheel will add visual interest and balance to your outdoor space.
Incorporate accessories
Accessories can help tie your outdoor furniture together and add personality to your outdoor space. Consider adding outdoor rugs, planters, and outdoor artwork like sculpture or vases to enhance the overall look of your outdoor furniture arrangement.
Lighting is essential for creating ambiance. Use different types of lighting such as rechargeable and waterproof lanterns, table lamps, sconces, and string lights to illuminate each zone. Incorporating plants, trees, and landscaping elements that suite your style and climate can help define and soften the boundaries between different zones. For smaller gardens such as balconies, use potted plants, potted hedges, and trellises to create privacy and separation between zones while adding a touch of nature to your outdoor space.
"These outdoor table lamps from Cassina are versatile and functional with an art deco reference through the delicate curves of the blown glass. They can be positioned as desired and recharged via USB."
By following these styling tips, you can create a well-designed and functional outdoor area that is perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you have a small patio or a spacious backyard, zoning outdoor spaces can help you make
the most of your outdoor living area.
Mesh Deckchair | DESIGNED BY Patricia Urquiola FOR Kettal
The Outdoor Collection from Mobilia is available in a large range of fabrics, metal shades
and hardware. Visit the Richmond showroom to start your Euro summer styling at home.
Mobilia is a family-owned Australian company that offers high-end furniture, lighting and design objects. Founded with an ingrained passion for design and craftsmanship, they curate and represent the world’s most iconic and innovative brands, design masters and pieces.
For more details visit mobilia.com.au
