Outdoor Dreaming with Coco Camellia: How to Embrace Parisian Alfresco Style This Summer

When it comes to l’art de vivre, or the art of living, there’s nobody that does it quite like the French. From alfresco dining with croissants and cafe au lait to a picnic with rosé and canapés, the Parisian summer isn’t just a time of year — it’s a way of life.

With warm weather on our doorstep and the launch of Lounge Lovers’ new Paris range, now’s the moment to pull out your best tableware, water those plants, and prepare to entertain friends and family all season long. To celebrate the arrival of summer, we spoke with Tara Wokulski, the Interior Designer and Influencer behind Coco Camellia, to get her tips for styling a Paris-inspired alfresco living space.

Inject texture into your outdoor space

Parisian alfresco style is the epitome of effortless chic — and incorporating textures and layering is a failsafe way to bring this relaxed aesthetic into your outdoor living area, says Tara.

“Think about your chair and tablecloth choice and how that would look outdoors. Going with a rattan or woven finish for your outdoor chairs can add loads of texture and interest along with a timeless look and feel."

A common sight outside cafes and balconies in the City of Light, synthetic rattan chairs are as charming as they are classique. These gorgeous pieces instantly infuse any outdoor space with a sense of French glamour, while also being comfortable enough for long breakfast catch-ups with friends.

Another tip? “Pare that texture back with a more simple flat woven material like a linen tablecloth will also help to elevate the space,” Tara adds.

Go au-natural: Create the ultimate holiday aesthetic with the Paris Dining Chair. With its rattan and bamboo-style frame and natural tones, this seating choice exudes coastal charm.

Select furniture that’s made for alfresco dining

You might have the perfect dining set ready and waiting in your home. But before you roll up your sleeves and move it onto the terrace, check that the furniture is actually suitable for outdoor spaces.

Sun, rain and wind can wear down the surface of marble tables, and organic materials can be prone to mold and mildew. Timber and cane furniture is another big no-go in alfresco spaces unless they’re treated, as they can be prone to breaking down.

To ensure your area is fit to entertain for years to come, invest in furniture that’s specifically designed for the outdoors. Faux rattan, teak, aluminium, wicker and iron are all great options thanks to their durability and ability to withstand the elements.

Best of both worlds: Constructed with a powder-coated aluminium frame and synthetic rattan, every item in our Paris collection is made for all weather conditions. Plus, the chairs are designed to be stackable so you can store them away when not in use.

Complement your existing style with seating

Want to create a seamless experience from the moment your friends arrive on your doorstep to when they step onto your balcony? The trick is to match your outdoors to your indoors to achieve a sense of flow and cohesion.

“Have a look at your interiors and try and determine what that style is or what the general colourways are. Then look to bring some of those details into the outdoor area. This may be linen materials, rattans, white or oak finishes,” says Tara.

In particular, pay attention to your seating. More than just a place to perch, these seemingly small pieces have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your dining area.

“Your chair choice should be a feature in this zone so have a little fun and be sure to inject texture, pattern and style. After all, entertaining outdoors is where the fun really is!”

Paris, je t’aime: Have an elevated dining table? The Paris Bar Stool is your best friend. Opt for the white finish for a crisp contemporary coastal style, or make a bold statement with an elegant combination of black and rattan.

The details matter

When it comes to outdoor entertaining, the French know that the devil is in the detail — and these little details make a world of difference. According to Tara, the best alfresco settings combine form and function.

“When styling for an outdoor lunch or any occasion, think of beauty but also practicality. You can layer serving spoons, wine glasses and jugs around a central vase with flowers to create interest on the tabletop, all whilst being functional elements that your guests will be able to use throughout their meal."

Be deliberate with each and every item you include in your setting, from your selection of tableware to your centrepiece. You’ll find that your entire outdoor space has a more striking impact as a result.

Inspire joy with florals

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking. But flowers have a certain je ne sais quoi, and there’s nothing quite as uplifting and stylish as having flowers on the table. Whether it’s fresh-picked cuts from your backyard or a bouquet from your local florist, a floral arrangement is an ideal accompaniment to a fabulous meal with friends.

Want to make it picture-perfect? Match the arrangement to your setting. Complement lighter shades with pink orchids and a pastel vase or create a striking contrast by pairing bright white petals against black seating.

Dreaming of hosting the summer soirees with your loved ones? Shop the new Paris range now.