Life Alfresco: Crate & Barrel’s Indoor-Outdoor Living Tips For Autumn 2023

by Naomi Chadderton September 27, 2023September 27, 2023

Looking to give your alfresco spaces a new lease of life in time for an upcoming wave of winter garden parties? Crate and Barrel has you sorted

As Audrey Hepburn once famously said: life is a party, dress for it. Of course, your outfit isn’t the only thing that requires plenty of thought when playing host to a stylish garden party this season — your outdoor space needs to be seriously chic, too. Luckily that’s where Crate and Barrel comes in. “Our new outdoor collection brings a fusion of modern minimalism and natural charm while also being tailored to the Middle Eastern climate,” in-house interior designer Mohamad Ahli tells Harper’s Bazaar Interiors. “It’s just what you need to elevate an outdoor space into a hub of relaxation and connection.” Here he shares his top tips for hosting a perfectly presented alfresco soirée…

Nail The Trends

“Over the past couple of years, minimalistic modern design has taken centre stage, characterised by its clean lines and uncluttered aesthetics,” explains Ahli. “There is also a growing appreciation for the beauty of natural elements and this is interwoven throughout our collection, spanning a varied range of materials, accessories and décor choices.”

Balancing timeless shades with bold contrasts, neutrals take the lead in Crate and Barrel’s AW collection, with off white and beige pieces taking pride of place in both the Batten and Fen lines. “They are beautifully complemented by the warmth of red teak accents while, for those seeking a bolder touch, the Shinola collection introduces impactful black pieces paired with rich brown teak for striking contrast,” adds Ahli.

Mohamad Ahli is the in-house interior designer at Crate and Barrel

Comfort Is Key

Any good host knows that when it comes to throwing a memorable dinner party, comfort is key, so be sure to invest in the new collection’s quality cushions, rugs and throws to keep guests cosy once night falls. “Accessories also allow you to infuse your space with character and charm, striking the perfect balance between sophistication and self-expression,” explains Ahli. There’s a whole spectrum of different patterns and shades to choose from, ranging from muted pastels to bolder hues, with something to suit all tastes.

Stay Sustainable

“Sustainability plays a pivotal role in current design trends, which is something we embrace wholeheartedly,” continues Ahli. The teak outdoor furniture found in the Bennet, Fen and Shinola lines, for example, is made from sustainably-sourced FSC certified teak wood, while many styles are also crafted from state-of-the-art weather-resistant material designed to stand the test of time, including Sunbrella cushions that don’t fade in the sun, UV-resistant rope and lightweight aluminium.

Fresh and clean muted tones are set against white backdrops for timeless style

Plan Your Space

To transform any backyard or balcony into a social hub, it’s important to invest in timeless designs including expandable tables, outdoor kitchen sets and mobile beverage carts that ensure your outdoor space is comfortable for guests to move around and interact. “Try creating cosy pockets by strategically placing seating arrangements and warm, ambient lighting,” advises Ahli. “Consider using firepits or stylish throws to keep everyone warm and comfortable in the cooler months.”

Update empty corners with oversized palms or cacti, perfect for the Middle Eastern climate

Make Time For Tablescaping

A souped-up way of saying setting your table, tablescaping is still all the rage this season, so be sure to play with textural layers, colourful patterns, florals and candles to create a feast for the eyes. “It’s also important to choose unbreakable and outdoor-friendly tableware to minimise the risk of accidents while maintaining an elegant presentation,” adds Ahli. “Our 2023 collection has a variety of acrylic options which are both stylish and practical, allowing you to set a beautiful table without worrying about breakage.”

The Batten collection is available for the kitchen and outdoor spaces

Get Creative With Cooking Appliances

Incorporating interactive cooking appliances to enhance the dining experience is always a great idea. “Crate and Barrel’s OONI pizza ovens can add a fun and engaging element to the party, allowing guests to get involved with the meal prep”, adds Ahli.

“Try creating cosy pockets by strategically placing seating arrangements and warm, ambient lighting.” Mohamad Ahli

Bring the indoors out with furniture that is as fabulous as it is functional. Case in point? This dining set courstesy of Crate and Barrel’s Shinola collection

Dinner Party Essentials

The must-have buys from Crate and Barrel’s AW 2023 collection that will bring your garden to life…

Planters

From elegant terracotta pots to modern planters in various sizes, indulge in an array of exquisite planters and faux greenery to infuse life and vibrancy into your outdoor space.

Lanterns

Illuminate outdoor soirées with the warm glow of lanterns that make use of the charm of candlelight to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere that lasts throughout the evening.

Rugs and cushions

Serving as both functional and decorative elements, choose from a myriad of weather-resistant rugs and cushions of various colours and textures that redefine outdoor comfort.

Unique centrepieces

From intricate ceramic bowls to sculptural pieces that draw the eye, unique centrepieces can serve as focal points, adding an artistic touch that elevates the overall aesthetic of your outdoor dining setup.

See all the highlights from the recent Harper’s Bazaar Interiors x Crate & Barrel ME event here.

Shop the Crate and Barrel Outdoor Collection at crateandbarrel.me

All images courtesy of Crate & Barrel