“Redesigning the Outdoors: Inspiration for updating Outdoor spaces ahead of summer

With the arrival of warmer weather, outdoor spaces take center stage. Terraces, patios, balconies, and pool areas become everyday settings where we enjoy the fresh air, share special moments, and reconnect with nature. Renovating these areas for the summer is not just a chance to enhance aesthetics but also an opportunity to adapt them to a lifestyle that values comfort, functionality, and harmony with the surroundings.

The rise of Outdoor living

More and more, the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living are blurring. Contemporary architecture embraces visual and material continuity, turning outdoor areas into natural extensions of the home. Renovating a terrace or redesigning a pool is no longer just about looks—it’s about creating environments that invite us to live the summer season through calm, comfort, and essential beauty.

As architect Mies van der Rohe said: “Architecture begins when you carefully put two bricks together.” That idea carries over to exterior design as well: materials matter. They are the foundation upon which experiences are built.

Materials that elevate Outdoor spaces

When planning an outdoor renovation, choosing the right flooring is essential. It must be durable, slip-resistant, and able to maintain its appearance despite constant exposure to sun, moisture, and temperature changes. At the same time, it should align with the project’s aesthetic language and the feelings it aims to evoke.

20 mm thick porcelain tile has become a go-to solution for interior designers and architects. Its strength and ease of installation—even on grass, gravel, or raised supports—allow it to meet technical challenges without compromising on design.

Designs that inspire

Some of the most versatile options for outdoor projects include:

• Novastone: a sober, elegant, and timeless stone that adds visual balance and a sense of calm to terraces and pool areas.
• Belcastel and Fidenza: two strong-character stones, perfect for patios with bold style and architectural presence.
• Borga: robust and textured, ideal for balconies or exterior stairs that aim to harmonize with natural surroundings.
• Walmer: a modern terrazzo, rich in detail, that brings energy and visual interest to chill-out zones or open-air dining areas.
• Terracina: reminiscent of traditional clay but with the technical performance of porcelain. It offers warmth and an artisanal feel to any outdoor corner.
• Cosmopolita: a refined, understated cement look, ideal for minimalist or industrial design projects.

Renovating with purpose

Every choice—from furniture to flooring—should reflect a clear vision: to create a livable, comfortable space that resonates with both its environment and the people who enjoy it. Sustainability, durability, and timelessness are values that increasingly guide modern outdoor design.

Summer is the perfect time to rediscover the value of outdoor living. Renovating these areas is not just about giving them a fresh look—it’s about infusing them with soul and turning them into places that help us live better.

Whether it’s a small urban balcony, a rustic patio, or a large poolside terrace, well-thought-out design—with materials that offer both beauty and functionality—has the power to turn the everyday into something extraordinary.

“A well-designed space is not just something you see—it’s something you live.” — Ilse Crawford

Redesigning outdoor areas is, in truth, a way to care for what’s inside. For ourselves, our loved ones, and the environment we choose to inhabit.