Welcome Spring…

Every week, interior designer Sally Henninger shares her thoughts on design, furniture and the custom made world.

With winter ending and the weather warming comes the anticipation of being outdoors, and I believe everyone with a yard needs some nice patio furniture.

A bench is a particularly nice addition to any yard and makes a great place to read a book on a sunny day or have drinks in the evening.  This amazing bench from Tony O’Malley Custom Cabinetry is stunning.  I can imagine it at the end of an expansive yard.  You could leave it as is, have it painted white, or, if you’re daring, have it lacquered red to really pop.  Best of all, you can customize it to your liking.

Lutyens Cypress Garden Bench by Tony O'Malley Custom Cabinetry at CustomMade.com

A cushion on it would also be nice (and guests would appreciate it)! Many fabric houses are doing some great outdoor materials these days.  Sunbrella is a stand-by and great for use outdoors.

This teak table from Westchester Wood would be great on a porch for dinners in the warm weather with family and friends.  It would look great with either wrought iron or wicker chairs around it … and maybe some sunflowers in the middle, because, let’s face it, food always tastes better with a nice ambiance!

Outdoor Teak Table by Westchester Wood at CustomMade.com

Here are some photos for inspiration.

I am loving this tent designed by Ruthie Sommers, so springy and fresh.  I can picture many lunches here under the shade!  You could have a tent custom made from outdoor fabrics you select, and it would be a great place to host a party.

Tent designed by Ruthie Sommers

This yard designed by Mary McDonald is my idea of heaven.  Crisp blues and whites, you can imagine having iced tea and catching up with friends here.  Here is another beautiful outdoor space designed by Mary McDonald.

Yard designed by Mary McDonald

Those of us living on the East Coast, of course, can’t enjoy a spot like this year round, but we can dream, right?

Outdoor space designed by Mary McDonald

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About Sally Henninger

Born in Newport, Rhode Island, Sally learned to cultivate her design aesthetic at an early age.  After attending Boston University and holding numerous design internships, she ventured out on her own in 2007.  Her style is sophisticated classics with an updated sensibility.  Her taste lends itself to classic interiors that are timeless and suited to her clients’ needs.

Would you like to see more benches, teak tables, or outdoor furniture created by our artisans?  Browse CustomMade’s galleries.