Every year at this point in the calendar, as the spring blossoms begin to fade and the warmth of the 2026 summer solstice approaches, we observe the new and exciting furniture trends that influence the most stylish exterior spaces. However, while we look for new inspiration, we continue to revive the patterns and colors that are consistently labeled as timeless – and nobody has nailed this aesthetic quite like Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes.
Mendes, who lives with her husband, Ryan Gosling, recently offered a glimpse of the outdoor furniture they are using to unwind this season. If this footage is anything to go by, they have opted for the most ageless pattern of all: stripes.
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Shop the Striped Outdoor Furniture Edit
Waterproof Outdoor Seat Cushions
The easiest way to bring Eva’s look to a chair you already own – these cushions are as classic as they are functional. Made of 100% polyester, this breathable, UV- and fade-resistant cover keeps your cushion looking fresh outdoors.
Becky Cameron Cotton Throw Pillow in Bengal Stripe
The perfect, instant, Eva-inspired upgrade begins with this piece. I love its soft, plush stripes, tapping perfectly into the look. It is meticulously woven with yarn-dyed threads, ensuring vibrant, long-lasting color that will not fade over time, even in exterior settings.
Joss & Main Samya Wide Outdoor Patio Sofa
Before you invest in any striped cushions, you need to perfect your base. This gray outdoor sofa is the best starting point for following Eva’s example to perfection. Layer it with striped pillows for a look that’s direct from her garden.
Maeve Striped Ruffle Pillow
Deckchair stripes continue to be a big trend, evoking vacations and shoresides and summer and fun. A reason to keep this pillow, for sure.
Add an accent to your outdoor sofa with this stunning gray and white striped pillow. Its farmhouse style is warm and inviting and the textured material brings in visual interest.
Haviland Upholstered Ottoman
An alternative to Eva’s pillows, this ottoman is comfortable, versatile, and stunning in the stripe finish. It works beautifully as a footrest or extra seat, season after season.
‘Patterned furniture introduces visual interest and depth to any space. In outdoor settings, where natural elements dominate, adding patterns through cushions, rugs, and even furniture upholstery can break the monotony of plain surfaces,’ comments designer Jodi Peterman from Elizabeth Erin Designs.
However, while its good looks are inevitably important, Peterman says these pieces need to be functional, too. ‘For instance, in a project, our team designed in Downtown Des Moines with Hubbell Development for Maxwell Apartments, geometric designs, colors, and abstract patterns created focal points that draw the eye and invite guests to explore different areas of the space. A space not only has to look visually appealing, but it needs to function first and foremost,’ Peterman explains.
‘Using different patterns allows you to play with color and design in ways that plain furniture cannot achieve.’
In the Gosling and Mendes garden, they have kept things timeless with a rich, almost neutral gray-blue color palette that only further emphasizes the nautical aesthetic. However, as Peterman reassures, it is hard to go wrong with any kind of patterned furniture – whether we opt for neutrals or more vibrant hues to match the bright energy of the July sun.
‘A bold, patterned outdoor sofa can set the tone for a lively, energetic ambiance, while subtle, intricate patterns can evoke a sense of tranquility and elegance,’ she says. ‘By choosing patterns that complement the natural surroundings, you can seamlessly blend your outdoor furniture with the landscape, creating a harmonious and inviting environment that you and your guests will enjoy.’
While stripes are the star of the yard, other patterns can bring a similar statement to an exterior space as we move deeper into the 2026 entertaining season.
‘Your choice of patterns reflects your personal style and can transform an ordinary outdoor space into a true extension of your home. Whether you prefer classic stripes [like Mendes], playful polka dots, or sophisticated damask patterns, there’s a design to match every taste,’ Peterman explains.
‘Patterned furniture provides an opportunity to showcase your unique personality and create an outdoor retreat that feels yours authentically! Explore these tips and have fun with them.’
As you curate your own patio or terrace for the 2026 season, remember that staying on-trend doesn’t have to mean reinventing the wheel – sometimes, it simply means looking to the classics.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.homesandgardens.com ’
