The expert guide to outdoor furniture trends in 2023

Australia is globally renowned for its laidback, outdoors-focused lifestyle, and our homes are, in many ways, the ultimate reflection of this way of life. 2023 has already seen some interesting outdoor furniture trends pop up, but it's no easy feat deciding which ones are worthy of inclusion in your backyard, terrace or balcony area. Australian-owned, family-run furniture retailer Bay Gallery shares their insight into which trends should make it into your outdoor space this year.

Aluminium has many desirable qualities, from incredible sturdiness and durability to being lightweight when handled. This clever material also doesn’t rust or deteriorate over time, making it the perfect complement for harsh Australian summers.

“Because it’s low-maintenance, durable and doesn't leach like some timbers, [aluminium is] ideal for outdoor settings,” explains Kieran Mey, Business Development Manager at Bay Gallery.

To cater to consumer demand for aluminium, the brand has launched an innovative timber-look aluminium range that combines the warmth and aesthetic of wood with the durability of aluminium.

This stylish trend links back to biophilic design, where organic curves represent the natural world. With its soft and subtle look, outdoor furniture with curves creates an inviting aesthetic that can bring a sense of calm and relaxation to the space.

Look out for products such as round tables, dining chairs with curved armrests or circular cushions.

“We believe that white will still be a crowd-pleaser in outdoor furniture this year, particularly when paired with warm timber accents,” says Kieran. He adds that grey tones are also making a comeback, gaining popularity in homes that showcase a monochromatic or neutral palette.

The best outdoor spaces stay looking bright and open all year round. To achieve this, opt for neutral hues like white, cream, and grey. These colours create the illusion of a larger area, giving your outdoor space that highly-coveted resort feel.

A blend of coastal and Hamptons-style furniture perfectly resonates with Australia’s laid-back lifestyle. The most efficient way to create this look is by using a combination of soft curves, woody textures and a neutral palette.

Sophisticated yet subtle, a coastal Hamptons aesthetic makes any outdoor space a holiday retreat, inviting contentment and quiet luxury into your home and capturing the essence of living 'the Australian dream'.

Whether you’re upgrading old outdoor furniture or starting from scratch, Kieran advises shoppers to consider factors like “material quality, durability, weather resistance and maintenance requirements”.

“Be wary of extremely low prices, as they may indicate compromised quality,” he adds. “Enquire about the length of the warranty, the fabric used, whether cushion covers are removable, and if the cushions have fast-dry foam.”

“Investing in better materials and construction ensures your outdoor furniture will look great and provide lasting comfort and enjoyment.”

Ready to upgrade your outdoor furniture? Visit the Bay Gallery on ArchiPro today.

Words by Aleczander Gamboa