As the good weather approaches, restaurants and bars are opening their terraces for the enjoyment of their guests. The outdoor areas of restaurants are also offering new experiences in line with the latest design trends. According to Veronika Nagy, interior designer of Coninvest, one of the most defining trends for 2025 is the blurring of the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
“Today, outdoor furniture looks almost deceptively similar to pieces designed for indoors,” says Veronika Nagy, “Often, at first glance, you might think you’re looking at an indoor sofa, but this furniture is made specifically for outdoors, with waterproof materials, clever ventilation and fillers that allow water to simply run off. What’s more, they are becoming more sophisticated not only functionally but also aesthetically.”
Two main trends: striking colours and inviting generosity
Current terrace furniture trends follow two distinct directions. The first is airy, colourful, eye-catching pieces: airy metal furniture in bright colours – for example, bright blues, lemon yellow cushions or even pink. These are playful yet stylish, aimed specifically at a younger audience looking for a café with a smart design.
The other big trend is the emergence of generous, soft, lounge-style seating outdoors. These are particularly inviting, comfortable and stylish. “Although they are still less common in Hungary, abroad it is now expected that the outdoor area of a major restaurant should look like a comfortable lounge space,” says Veronika Nagy. Of course, looks aren’t everything, there are serious technological advances behind the scenes: these textiles are water-repellent, and the filling material is not just a sponge but a special structure that allows water to flow through – so they can be left outside even in the rain.
Organic shapes and new generation materials
Classic rattan furniture has not disappeared completely, but it has taken on a new form. “Instead of the typical angular armchair shapes of the 1980s, they now have more organic lines, often with special braided structures or even rope-effect armrests. They are also paired with more sophisticated parasols and shades that add visual interest to the terrace.”
“A beautiful piece of furniture that can’t be put away in winter can look worn out in spring. So today’s outdoor design is not just about beauty, it also needs to be durable – a need that new materials and constructions are meeting.”
Guests expect more and more that the outdoor space should match the indoor in experience and style. The new generation of terrace furniture represents just this approach: offering comfort, visual appeal and durability, while remaining flexible to meet the challenges.
