Vintage-Inspired Patio Furniture Combines Nostalgia With Contemporary Flair

With warm weather finding us early in Toronto, many are looking to spruce up their outdoor spaces. Design has long taken inspiration from trends and fads of yesteryears, looking to vintage furniture, materials and techniques for inspiration. Pulling from the rich tapestries of retro-inspired patio furniture, we explored pieces that blend classic aesthetics and silhouettes with Toronto’s eclectic design style and unique patio culture. Here are some of our favourite finds.

1950s-Inspired Pavilion Black Metal Outdoor Sofa By Paul McCobb

This outdoor sofa was first introduced in designer Paul McCobb’s 1952 Pavilion Collection. Re-issued in an eye-catching stripe upholstery – echoing the trend of this era’s vintage patio wears and made in a weather resistant Sunbrella performance fabric – this patio sofa brings a sense of classic oasis to your contemporary digs. $2,499, at CB2.

The Hanging Egg Chair

Ideated in the 1950s by Nanna and Jorgen Ditzel, the hanging egg chair has once again risen in popularity due to its appeal for small spaces. This handwoven chair design was based on the vintage-inspired patio chair, with the idea of creating an elevated oasis. The weaving process takes two artisans up to a week to complete. $1,179, at CB2.

The 1960s Outdoor Sun Lounger

The creation of the sun lounger originally came from the mind of Florence Knoll in the late1960s. This version, a CB2 exclusive, vintage-inspired patio piece features a polymesh seat and back, aluminum tube and can be adjusted to five positions. $599.

1970s-Inspired Masha Rattan & Teak Outdoor Lounge Chair 

Designer Mermelada Estudio was inspired by the rattan-raving 70s when putting a Brazilian modernist spin on a classic patio piece. Natural unfinished teak and an all-weather rattan seat bring comfort and class. $2,599, at CB2.

Vintage-Inspired Patio Chair

Despite restyling through the eras, the metal patio chair has carried its legacy through to the 1990s. This vintage-inspired patio armchair echoes another restyling, with a streamline, minimalist design. Designer Jannis Ellenberger sought to bring coastal vibes to this rendition with linen weaved cushions. From $549, at CB2.

1980s-Inspired High Back Lounge Chair

Popularized in the 1980s, high-back lounge chairs were many patio-lovers seat of choice because of their nestling qualities. This Pretzel High Back Lounge Chair from Jardin De Ville is designed with a high back, wide seat and encompassing arms, making its sitter feel embraced. Crafted from weather-resistant rope and woven in a rattan-esque pattern on an aluminum frame. $1,999, at Jardin De Ville.