The Spoga+Gafa International Garden Fair, set for Sept. 4-6, in Cologne, Germany, recently published its outdoor trends for 2016-2017. According to Spoga+Gafa, some of the latest trends for outdoor include:

-Outdoor furniture has become more playful. Manufacturers are creating charming and amusing designs - often in bright colors. Stools and armchairs are often lightweight due to struts or mesh-like looks that are used. The result is a transparent, delicate look. The playful trend is then rounded off by cheerful animal motifs on cushions and accessories, as well as floral patterns.

-The "Modern Country" trend is a blend of tradition, modern, nature and art to form a harmonious overall picture. The focus is on braid and teak; both materials were freed from their heaviness so that the design language of the garden furniture has a much more delicate appearance.

-The manufacturers are not only relaunching well-known classics in the indoor segment, the companies are also reviving retro styles in the outdoor section. Manufacturers are rediscovering the classic garden furniture forms such as the foldable beach chair. Furthermore, traditional indoor looks are making their way outdoors.

-Whether in makeup, on the fashion scene or in the living area - taupe has long since been a must-have. The same applies for the balcony and the terrace. The warm natural color is timeless and discrete, has an elegant, timeless effect and is not dull. The manufacturers are playing with many alternatives here: gray, greige, brown and beige are extremely popular.

-Barbecuing is once again a favorite pastime in 2016 and the technologies are becoming more and more sophisticated. Food can be smoked, roasted, cooked and baked outside, so manufacturers are now presenting multifunctional and compact grills. Lastly, barbecuing equipment and accessories such as waffle and sandwich attachments and intelligent roast thermometers are on the rise.

The 2016 Spoga+Gafa is open to trade visitors on Sept. 4-5, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sept. 6, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

(Source: casualliving.com)