As interior designers, we love the thrill of trend forecasting. From paint colors and furniture silhouettes to design styles and aesthetic comebacks, there’s something creatively gratifying about spotlighting up-and-coming looks (and implementing them into our own homes and client projects). While we do think it’s important to know when to pass and when to dive all-in, design trends are what make the field feel fresh, exciting, and ever-changing.
Which brings us to the topic of the hour: outdoor decor and furniture trends for 2024. When mulling through the spring look books of some of our favorite home brands this year, a clear theme emerged: retro, 1950s and 60s-inspired furniture, particularly crafted from powder-coated steal and wrought iron, is back in a big way.
Take Sarah Sherman Samuel’s new outdoor collection for Lulu & Georgia, for example. Featuring curved, wrought iron furniture, scalloped umbrellas, and classic striped bolster and disc throw pillows, the line is a little modern, a little nostalgic, and next-level chic.
CB2’s outdoor line with interior designer Paul McCobb is another good example. It features modern interpretations of his 1952 Pavilion Collection, including timeless wrought-iron dining chairs, outdoor sofas, and more. Factor in Anthropologie’s new outdoor line with Business & Pleasure Co., which is brimming with fringed umbrellas, and vintage-inspired iron sun loungers, a clear trend emerges.
“This look borrows elements from the retro 1960s Palm Beach aesthetic, and pairs it with modern silhouettes and clean lines for a slight edge,” says lead Havenly designer Heather Goerzen. “I’m absolutely loving it for spring 2024 and beyond — it’s on-trend, yet incredibly timeless.”
To bring the look to your patio, start with a base of wrought iron furniture, be it a dining set or a sofa and accent chairs, and layer a jute rug underfoot for some natural texture. Add in a little retro flair with classic prints, like Cabana Stripe and Banana Leaf throw pillows, and a scalloped, fringed, or striped outdoor umbrella to finish the look. Cocktails of all kinds (including afternoon martinis) are welcome.
Love the look as much as we do? Bring the retro Palm Beach look home with our designer edit.
Shop the Trend
- Sofa: Lulu & Georgia
- Cabana Stripe Pillow: The Inside
- Banana Leaf Pillow: The Inside
- Bistro Table: CB2
- Wicker Chair: Lulu & Georgia
- Scalloped Umbrella: Anthropologie
- Cabana Stool: The Inside
- Iron Outdoor Chair: Anthropologie
- Striped Disc Pillow: Lulu & Georgia
- Bolster Pillow: Lulu & Georgia