Backyard Refresh

The backyard didn't need a full overhaul — just a few pieces that made us actually want to be out there. A statement umbrella, hanging lanterns, a cordless lamp, tabletop torches, a garden stool, glowing side tables, and a proper sofa to sink into changed the whole feel of the space this season.

The Sofa

A teak-framed sofa with cream cushions is the actual seating heart of the space now — deep enough to sink into, simple lines so it doesn't compete with everything else we've added around it.

Shop it here → SAFAVIEH Theo 3-Seat Outdoor Sofa

The Umbrella

The JONATHAN Y Tracy 9' Scalloped Market Patio Umbrella in Coral Pink/White is doing most of the visual work out here. The scalloped double-top and white trim give it a coastal, mid-century feel without looking too "themed," and the auto-tilt crank makes it easy to angle away from the afternoon sun. Eight aluminum ribs and UV-resistant fabric mean it can actually live outside — there's even an integrated wind vent for the gustier days.

Shop it here → JONATHAN Y Tracy Scalloped Umbrella

The Lanterns

We hung a pair of Livinlarge rattan lanterns from the pergola, and they're the first thing that gets switched on once the sun starts going down. Waterproof and solar-powered, with a warm Edison-bulb glow that the woven shade softens beautifully — no cords, no remembering to charge anything.

Shop it here → Livinlarge Solar Rattan Lantern

The Lamp

For the nights we're out past dark, a rechargeable cordless table lamp in gold has become the one we grab without thinking. Stepless dimming, three color temperatures, and a 2600mAh battery that holds a charge through a couple of dinners outside — no cord to trip over, no outlet to fight for.

Shop it here → Cordless Metal Table Lamp, Gold

The Torches

Four Seraphic citronella torches in stainless steel are scattered across the table and railing for the nights we're out late. They double as bug control and ambient light, and the finish keeps them from looking too "tiki bar."

Shop it here → Seraphic Citronella Torches, Set of 4

The Garden Stool

A JONATHAN Y ceramic garden stool in classic blue-and-white chinoiserie found its way in as a side table next to the loungers — something to set a drink or a citronella torch on that doesn't feel purely functional. The glazed finish and traditional "double happiness" motif dress up a corner that was otherwise just pavers.

Shop it here → JONATHAN Y Double Happiness Garden Stool

The Side Tables

We added a pair of woven rattan Solar Yard nesting tables with solar-lit tops by the pool — one taller, one shorter, nested next to the loungers. They glow from within once it's dark, so they're doing double duty as both a table and another light source without adding another cord or battery to manage.

Shop it here → Solar Yard Boho Nesting Tables, Set of 2