This summer, the hottest room in the house isn’t actually inside the house at all.
Across Canada, patios, balconies, rooftops, and backyards are being transformed into outdoor living rooms that borrow heavily from the world’s most beautiful boutique hotels. Think plush seating, layered textiles, portable lighting, oversized planters, and curated corners designed for everything from morning coffee to sunset cocktails.
The trend reflects a broader shift in how we want to live. Rather than reserving outdoor spaces for occasional entertaining, homeowners and condo dwellers alike are creating destinations that feel like an extension of their interiors.
The foundation starts with comfortable seating. Canadian furniture brand Article has embraced the movement with contemporary outdoor sectionals and lounge chairs that look just as sophisticated as their indoor counterparts. Meanwhile, Vancouver-based Cozey has expanded its modular approach to outdoor living with stylish, customizable seating designed to adapt to everything from compact condo balconies to sprawling backyard patios. For those who favour a more minimalist aesthetic, EQ3‘s outdoor collection pairs clean-lined silhouettes with durable materials built to withstand Canadian summers.Meanwhile, ‘s outdoor collection pairs minimalist silhouettes with durable materials designed to withstand Canadian summers.
Texture plays a major role in making outdoor spaces feel welcoming. Designers are layering outdoor rugs, cushions, and throws to create warmth and visual interest. Simons Maison has become a go-to source for affordable striped cushions, woven accessories, and Mediterranean-inspired accents that instantly elevate a space.
Lighting is another key component of the resort-inspired look. Portable rechargeable lamps, once reserved for luxury hospitality settings, are now finding their way onto backyard dining tables and condo balconies. Brands like Philips Hue and IKEA offer cordless options that create ambience long after the sun sets.
And no boutique hotel-inspired retreat would be complete without greenery. Faux olive trees remain one of the season’s most sought-after décor items, appearing everywhere from Crate & Barrel to CB2. For those with a green thumb, oversized terracotta planters filled with lavender, rosemary, and ornamental grasses deliver a similar European feel.
The final touch? An outdoor entertaining station stocked with beautiful glassware, a pitcher of citrus-infused water, and perhaps a chilled bottle of rosé.
After all, if summer is short, every square foot deserves to feel like a vacation.
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