Contemporary terrace: how to compose it? How best to furnish it with the right furniture and accessories?

Furnishing a contemporary terrace requires careful planning and an accurate assessment of the size, exposure and objectives of the furnishing project.

With the right attention to detail and a clear vision of the end result, it is possible to create an outdoor space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Let us see in this step-by-step guide what decisions need to be made and how to make the best choices for each case.

What do you need to pay attention to when planning the furnishing of a contemporary terrace?

When venturing into the project of furnishing a contemporary terrace, attention must be paid to several elements to ensure that the final result is satisfactory and fits the lifestyle and aesthetic needs of the various clients.

The first aspect to assess is the size of the terrace. This element will directly influence both the type of furniture and the arrangement of the furniture. If the terrace is developed in a limited space, it is important to make furnishing decisions that optimise it as much as possible, perhaps opting for multifunctional furniture or flexible solutions that take up little space . Conversely, when faced with larger contemporary terrace, one has greater freedom in the choice of furnishings and can indulge in different areas with different functions and aesthetics.

Among the aspects to be assessed very carefully is also the exposure of the terrace. If the space is in full sun for a large part of the day, it will be necessary to ensure that the furniture is adequately protected from both the sun and other atmospheric agents. In this case, the presence of tents, parasols or pergolas could be envisaged, which have the task of creating shaded and sheltered areas and making the environment more enjoyable even on the hottest days.

In addition to size and exposure, it is essential to define the objectives of the furnishing project. This involves understanding how you intend to use the space and what atmospheres you want to create. For example, if you want to turn the terrace into a relaxing oasis, you could favour comfortable furniture and elements such as comfortable sofas, armchairs, chaise lounges  and hammocks.

As a general guideline, it is always important to keep in mind the overall style of the house and its surroundings. Indeed, a contemporary terrace should blend harmoniously with the architecture of the house and reflect one’s personal taste. You could opt for minimalist furniture and clean lines for a contemporary look, or go for natural materials and neutral tones for a more relaxing and cosy atmosphere.

Some of the best ideas for furnishing a contemporary terrace

Contemporary terraces are often generously sized, and it is generally a good idea to provide a cover that shelters at least one area of the outdoor area and provides a cosy space in which to spend time relaxing.

Which type of enclosure is preferred depends on both individual needs and the local climate. If the objective is to protect the terrace from the weather or excessive sun, a fixed cover such as a gazebo, canopy or pergola may be a good idea.

If, on the other hand, you only need to create a sheltered space for a limited period of time, you could resort to the use of tents or parasols, which allow you to flexibly adjust the exposure to the sun according to the need of the moment.

With regard to furniture, it is important to select pieces that suit the size of the contemporary terrace and emphasise its modern style. Sofas and armchairs are practically a must: they are comfortable, stylish and invite relaxation. To complete the outdoor area, you can then add elegant tables and chairs, which are perfect for eating your various meals in the open air and for spending evenings in the company of friends.

What are the tips for furnishing a contemporary terrace?

To achieve a beautiful overall result and to make the terrace even more welcoming and elegant, lighting plays a very important role. Proper lighting can in fact transform the terrace into a welcoming place both during the day and at night. Specifically, a combination of soft lighting and spot lighting is ideal for creating different atmospheres and enhancing the key elements of the décor.

The choice of materials used for terrace furniture is decisive. To give the room a modern look, wood, metal or natural stone can be used.

As for furniture, it is advisable to choose pieces that reflect the modern style of the terrace and that are comfortable and functional. As mentioned previously, sofas, armchairs and outdoor beds with clean lines and durable materials are ideal options for creating a cosy lounge area, while tables and chairs with geometric shapes and bright colours can certainly add a touch of liveliness and originality.

An element that is often overlooked but can make all the difference when furnishing a terrace is the outdoor carpet. That’s right: a well-chosen carpet can define the space and add warmth and comfort, as well as protect the floor and dampen noise. In this sense, it is advisable to opt for materials that are weather-resistant and easy to clean, such as polypropylene or polyester.

Finally, the addition of plants and flowers can help create a more natural and relaxing ambience on the contemporary terrace. Potted plants or planters can bring a touch of colour, texture and fragrance, while climbing or vertical plants can be used to increase privacy while better defining the space.

Il Piccolo, a second generation family business, opens its showroom in Lugano. With over 50 years of experience, Il Piccolo brings with it a wealth of technical and design knowledge of the highest level, thanks to the many interiors designed and furnished around the world. In addition, Il Piccolo represents many of the best international luxury furniture brands. We design, manufacture and sell the best in design. Also with regard to La Cornue kitchens, we follow the customer from the design to the realisation of the project, integrating the whole process with a precise and professional service.CONTACT US