Summer on Long Island’s North Shore is nothing short of magical. Lush landscapes, long daylight hours, and warm evenings invite us to spend as much time outside as possible. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a book, having the right backyard setup makes all the difference.
Here’s how to elevate your outdoor space with furniture and cabanas that blend comfort, style, and functionality.
1. Choose Durable Yet Elegant Furniture
Outdoor furniture today doesn’t mean sacrificing style for durability. Look for weather-resistant materials like:
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Teak: Naturally resistant to moisture and insects, teak adds a refined, timeless look.
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Powder-coated aluminum: Lightweight, modern, and rust-resistant.
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All-weather wicker: A popular choice for its comfort and classic aesthetic.
Pair sofas and sectionals with plush, quick-drying cushions in neutral tones or coastal blues to create a resort-like atmosphere.
2. Define Spaces With Layout & Layers
Create distinct zones - dining, lounging, and poolside relaxation. Rugs, side tables, and lanterns help define each area and add a layered, designer feel.
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Use outdoor rugs to anchor seating areas.
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Add accent lighting like string lights, lanterns, or solar path lights for ambiance after sundown.
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Incorporate shade solutions such as umbrellas or pergolas with draped fabric for a breezy, Mediterranean vibe.
3. Make a Statement With a Backyard Cabana
A well-designed cabana is more than a shaded structure, it’s a lifestyle feature.
From sleek modern pavilions to wood-framed cabanas with billowing curtains, these structures provide privacy and comfort while elevating the overall aesthetic of your yard. Some homeowners even integrate:
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Built-in wet bars or mini kitchens
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Outdoor TVs and fans
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Daybeds or oversized chaises
Pro tip: Adding a cabana near a pool or hot tub gives the entire yard a resort feel, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding in style!
4. Where to Shop for High-End Outdoor Furniture & Cabanas
If you're ready to upgrade your outdoor living, here are a few standout retailers, local and national, offering luxury outdoor furnishings:
Local & Regional Showrooms:
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Restoration Hardware (RH), Manhasset – Iconic for its high-end, timeless outdoor collections.
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Safavieh Home, Glen Cove & Manhasset – Great selection of luxury outdoor furniture with coastal and modern styles.
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Fortunoff Backyard Store, Melville – Specializes in durable, stylish outdoor furnishings and umbrellas.
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Clarke’s Garden & Home, Greenvale – Boutique selection with curated pieces for stylish Long Island backyards.
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West | Out East, Southampton – Chic, Hamptons-inspired outdoor living pieces for elevated coastal luxury.
Online/National Retailers:
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Serena & Lily – Beautiful coastal aesthetic perfect for North Shore backyards.
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Frontgate – Known for grand-scale furniture and resort-style cabanas.
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Design Within Reach – Minimalist and modern options with a designer feel.
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Terrain – Garden-forward pieces with a natural, organic vibe.
- CB2 – Sleek, urban designs with unexpected outdoor pieces.
5. Think Function & Flow
Before investing in furniture or a cabana, think about how you use your backyard. Do you host large gatherings or prefer quiet dinners with close friends? Are you looking to create a kid-friendly retreat or a serene, spa-like escape?
Design choices should reflect your lifestyle. A real estate professional with a background in luxury homes (like myself!) can often provide helpful insights based on layout, sun exposure, and resale value as well.
Ready to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space?
Summer doesn’t last forever, but with the right furniture and backyard design, you can make the most of every warm weather moment. Whether you're curating a high-end patio or investing in a show-stopping cabana, a well designed outdoor area is not only beautiful, it adds tremendous value to your home and lifestyle.
If you're looking for design inspiration or you're wondering how outdoor upgrades can impact your property value, I’m always happy to be a resource.
