Our friends at Zillow Digs (of which I’m a member of their board of designers) recently announced the top three outdoor patio trends for 2015 and the three biggest fads headed out of style. See if you agree and if you’re willing to let go of the reported passé looks. 

3 Outdoor Patio Trends

Simplicity and elements of nature are the keys to a beautiful outdoor space this season. Fill your patio with pops of citrus, low-maintenance greenery and soft romantic lighting, but stay away from trendy patterned fabrics, blah beiges and intricate shabby chic furniture, which are now trends of the past.

 

1 / Lime Green Accent Colors

Lime green is the most popular accent color for summer 2015. Expect to see this fresh, natural hue manifest in a variety of materials and textures—from throw pillows and vases to outdoor umbrellas. A highly versatile statement color, lime green offers the perfect complement to outdoor greenery and pairs exceptionally well with other citrus tones, like tangerine and sunshine yellow.

2 / Vertical Gardens 

Low-maintenance, native plants are highly popular this summer, especially given the water shortages in California. Vertical or wall gardens offer a sophisticated home for succulents, herbs and other easy-to-care-for plants, and are one of this season’s biggest outdoor patio trends, especially on condo and apartment decks where outdoor floor space can be especially tight.

3 / Hurricane Candles 

Hurricane candles are this season’s most popular outdoor lighting solution, and are equally as prevalent among budget and luxury spaces. When grouped together on tables or lined up along the patio floor, hurricane candles are romantic and create a wonderful ambiance that can be enjoyed on any budget. 

3 Fads to Replace

1 / Tuscan Colors 

Khakis or yellow-based neutrals are out, as well as anything muddy or Tuscan-themed. While these muted hues can bring warmth in moderation, they feel heavy and faux in outdoor spaces, which contrast with this season’s fresh, streamlined aesthetic. Expect to see a rise in citrus color options in outdoor fabrics, textures and materials, as homeowners move toward incorporating color in their patio spaces.

2 / Shabby Chic Furniture 

Intricate, shabby chic patio sets are fading away as summer 2015 is all about simplicity and clean lines. Detailed wrought iron patio sets will be replaced with sleek outdoor sofas and loveseats adorned with pillows and throws in this summer’s hottest citrus colors. Outdoor spaces are becoming an extension of indoor living, so people will invest in long-lasting furniture that can weather both the seasons and changing fads.

3 / Excessive Patterns 

People grow tired of busy patterns, so keep them to a minimum. Instead, add interest and texture with natural greenery and pops of citrus colors. Look for more solid color choices on pillows and throw blankets.

Kerrie L. Kelly is an award-winning interior designer, author and multimedia consultant. She has authored two books: ‘Home Décor: A Sunset Design Guide,’ published by Oxmoor House, and ‘My Interior Design Kit,’ with Pearson Professional and Career Education. To contact her, visit kerriekelly.com or call 916-919-3023.