This Colorful Patio Is Made for Family Lounging All Summer Long

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To make the most of summer’s long, sunny days, interior designer and stylist Meta Coleman created a colorful, family-friendly outdoor-living space at her home in Provo, Utah, that riffs off retro. The choice of predominantly primary colors alongside bold patterns was inspired by a ’70s-era photograph Coleman saw of three women wearing mismatched striped dresses, dancing barefoot in the street. “I haven’t been able to get that image out of my mind so I decided to pay homage to it with my backyard patio design,” she says. Her interpretation mixes timeless stripes with small mod florals and prints from Finnish design house Marimekko. “I recommend varying the scale of your patterns and incorporating some of the color from the main pieces into the accessories,” she says. She opted for low, deep seating that’s both “comfortable and practical.” The red vintage fireplace adds height to the space but it proves useful too. “We can prepare our dinner in the fire and enjoy its warmth when nights start to get chilly.” Tap into this bold look with a few well-selected, high-impact pieces.

Courtesy of Deck Towel

A lightweight towel can also work as a vibrant throw. Drape it on the back of an outdoor sofa or use it for warmth.

Buy: Linen Beach Towel, $110.

Courtesy of World Market

Create some much-needed shade with an umbrella in nautical hues.

Buy: Navy-and-White Single Scallop Tilting Outdoor Umbrella, $230.

Courtesy of Serena & Lily

Channel vacay vibes with a tropical-themed accent pillow.

Buy: Palm Pillow Cover, $78.

Courtesy of Loll Designs

One of our favorite summer activities is eating dinner outdoors. A table for resting plates and drinks is a necessity!

Buy: Lollygagger Cocktail Table in cloud white, $335.

Courtesy of 2Modern

Put a sunny spin on a classic bistro chair by Fermob.

Buy: Fermob Metal Bistro Chair Set of 2 in honey, $244.

Courtesy of Overstock

Trade in your boring, solid cushions for a preppy stripe.

Buy: Indoor/Outdoor Corded Loveseat, $336