11 Outdoor Summer Style Ideas

We're making the most of sunny days, summer blooms, and cozy outdoor nooks.

Summer is officially here, and that means we are taking our parties outside. From traditional southern porches to covered patios with all of the amenities, we’ve put together eleven ideas to inspire your outdoor gathering of any kind. Keep reading and get our tips for creating gorgeous and company-ready outdoor spaces!

1. Vintage Inspired

back patio
Photography by Marcy Black Simpson

Brilliant pops of color meet cool white woods on this dreamy covered porch. This happy color scheme is filled with bright touches like painted metalwork, ceramic animals, whimsical art pieces, and embroidered linens.

2. Retreat and Renew

front porch
Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele

From peaceful morning routines to lively entertaining, this family’s renovated porch is as inviting as it is beautiful. Clean whites and happy pops of color create a gorgeous setup with plenty of natural light and shade for an afternoon spent reading and resting.

3. Sun-Kissed Bliss

Pursell Farms
Photography by Mac Jamieson

Dreamy surroundings layer effortlessly with brilliant dabs of green and yellow as hydrangeas burst forth in full glory. Pluck a few exquisite blooms from your garden to create a simple yet elegant tabletop arrangement that completes the scene.

4. Breezy Respite

Pursell Farms

Pay homage to the season by dressing a small table for two in shades of lemon, lime, and pristine white. A setting of pillow-adorned dining chairs offers you and your guest a comfortable area to enjoy refreshments, while paper lanterns sway gently in the warm breeze.

5. Relaxed and Refined

patio with kitchen and fireplace and vaulted wood-beam ceiling
Photography by Mac Jamieson

Custom cabinetry and countertops surround a grill and smoker, complete with a strong hood vent clad in shiplap to bring in texture and draw the eye toward the impressive vaulted ceilings. Indoor/outdoor wicker furniture with cushions upholstered in plush, durable fabric adds to both the comfort and panache of this cozy scene.

6. Southern Charm

front porch
Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele

A swinging bench and two coordinating rocking chairs make this retreat perfect for catching a breezy afternoon while staying comfortable. A combination of patterned and solid throw pillows adds personality and style, while a simple potted plant adorns the circular glass table in the middle of the scene.

7. Gather Around

outdoor patio
Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele

This dining table setup is the perfect arrangement for hosting and spending time wit loved ones. Keep things light and airy with soft colors and fresh greenery as a centerpiece.

8. Breath of Fresh Air

outdoor patio
Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele

A wide-open backyard is graced with multiple spots for hosting guests. The warm color of the couch and chair cushions complements the natural greenery and beautiful surroundings.

9. Gentle Neutrals

Photography by William Dickey

Let the natural lighting and beauty of your space shine by using a neutral color palette for furniture and accents. Planters full of favorite blooms and an intimate seating area create a relaxing oasis.

10. Window Treatment

Photography by William Dickey

You can turn a typically unused space into an eye-catching nook by framing a window with a simple bench with throw pillows. Symmetrically place planters on each side and fill with full greenery.

11. Lowcountry Beauty

Rhett Inn
Photography by John O’Hagan

A stunning, two-story wraparound piazza welcomes guests to The Rhett House Inn, a quaint bed-and-breakfast in the heart of Beaufort, South Carolina’s historic district. The Greek-Revival-style house is the perfect place for vacationers to put their feet up as they sip a cocktail and enjoy the fresh air. The brick courtyard is the perfect spot to find serenity with simple furnishings that take nothing away from the lush, airy scenery.