Retro Lighting, Flamingos and Other Outdoor Ideas

If you’re a fan of the recent retro (the mid-’70s through the mid-’90s), you may have a slew of ideas for your interior. But what about the great outdoors?! How do you get the look in your garden and other areas near the exterior of your home? Scroll down for a collection of photos that feature retro lighting, flamingo yard ornaments and more…

Modern Light Fixtures

For an illuminating touch, try adding globe lighting to your outdoor space. Below we see a trio of globe lights and the softness they add to a patio and garden featured in The Lighting Book by Deyan Sudjic:

Geometric Pool Tile

While this next outdoor element isn’t easy to duplicate if you don’t have a pool (or you’re not up for a pool makeover), geometric tile is never a bad idea! Why not create some outdoor artwork or an outdoor mural using tile? Its potential reaches far beyond the swimming pool. And let’s hear it for cylindrical terracotta pots! The photo below was featured in the January 1987 issue of Metropolitan Home. Pictured: designer Nick Berman.

Southwestern Style

You can always dial up the rustic, earthy flavor with the help of Southwestern flair. This covered porch featured in The Decorating Book by Mary Gilliatt showcases Southwestern pillows, a rattan chair, a natural wood table, and plants in woven cane planters:

Special Touches

And then there are those special touches so creative and fabulous that they simply take an outdoor space to the next level. Like a walkway lined with weatherproof beacon lights, flamingo yard ornaments, and a cactus garden (outside the home of artist Annie Kelly and photographer Tim Street-Porter). Photos featured in (clockwise L to R): The Lighting Book by Deyan Sudjic (x2) and the September 1986 issue of Metropolitan Home.