Outdoor furniture: New purism in the open air

Consciously doing without is currently also an ongoing trend in the outdoor furniture sector. New collections have an air of elegant minimalism.

Bauhaus is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. In addition to the influential design school, a conscious, reduced language of design is always associated with it. "Less is more" – the credo of the former modern style is once again gaining significance today. Many present items of furniture are characterised by a plain design, also for the terrace and garden. Countless manufacturers of outdoor furniture are betting on elegant purism for the coming season. Reserved shapes and materials are creating a new linearity outdoors.

Consciously simple

The current minimalist approach for outside doesn't primarily have anything to do with saving resources – even if that does happen to be a sustainable side-effect. The reduction down to the essentials corresponds much more with a new lifestyle that has a penchant for simplicity. It is about a more conscious perception of beauty in simple and authentic things, even if their execution is by all means allowed to be of higher quality.

Colourful accents

Clear contours and filigree shapes characterise a new generation of consciously discrete outdoor furniture. Curved round steel combined with textile woven mesh, padding or natural wood dominates the choice of material. The simplicity of the design is frequently accentuated using bright colours for the frames, seats and table tops. Cantilever chairs or models on runners underline the slim impression.

Homely purism

In spite of all this reduced clarity, the current outdoor collections still have an inviting and elegant effect. Curved lines often lend the design a soft impression. Furthermore, the combination between textiles and natural materials lend the simple designs a homely touch. Furthermore, enhancing cushions, rugs and other accessories from the living area create a cosy atmosphere.

Trend towards reduction

The Bauhaus classics themselves are also experiencing a revival for outdoors. The tubular steel chair by Marcel Breuer or the cantilever chair S 40 by Mart Stam are meanwhile available as weatherproof outdoor editions. The desire for leaving things out is thus not only promoting a retro trend for the outdoor area, but also a new lightness in the open air living room.