Creating A Nordic-Inspired Outdoor Retreat

There are so many benefits to spending time outdoors. Time spent in the fresh air can help reduce stress, improve sleep, boost immunity, lift your mood, and deepen your connection to nature.

Though it can be as simple as laying a blanket on the grass, creating your own outdoor oasis is a powerful way to harmonize nature and design, especially when taking a Nordic approach, which considers aesthetics, functionality, and materials.

Whether you have a pint-sized balcony or a spacious backyard (or anything in between!), create your very own Nordic-inspired outdoor retreat with our complete guide jam-packed with suggestions for Scandinavian outdoor furniture, design accessories, plant pots, outdoor lighting, and more.

Gather & relax outdoors, the Nordic way

In Scandinavia, the warmer months are savored. Many homes have a dedicated outdoor space for soaking up every minute of sunshine. Get inspired by comfy outdoor lounge furniture, outdoor rugs, and pillows that all capture the essence of Scandinavian design while holding up to the elements.

Lounge Furniture

Though first introduced in 1959, Carl Hansen & Søn’s BK 14 Outdoor/Indoor Lounger has a sleek and modern appearance that stands the test of time. Danish architect Bodil Kjær was inspired by Cubist forms and contemporary architecture. Its solid teak construction has a simple geometric quality while also being a natural fit for the outdoor elements.

If you don’t have the space for a full lounger, opt for the MG501 Cuba Chair Outdoor. The 1997 design is Morten Gøttler’s interpretation of the folding chair concept, while still packing tons of comfort with its deep and wide seat.

For a more customizable lounge furniture set-up, opt for Carl Hansen & Søn’s Embrace Outdoor Lounge Modular Sofa. This design features solid teak frames and soft, weather-resistant upholstery that can be combined in endless ways depending on your space and preferences.

Fritz Hansen’s Tradition Modular Sofa Series is another great option that combines soft upholstery with solid teak. Designer Povl B. Eskildsen cut no corners with this series, which is perfectly proportioned for life outdoors. We especially love the signature spindle backrest.

Danish design house HOUE is known for their modern outdoor furniture that combines great comfort, classic Scandinavian design, and careful attention to detail. The LEVEL Modular Outdoor Lounge Series offers endless configurations for optimal comfort. The lightweight aluminum frame can withstand the elements while the soft cushions are made with Sunbrella fabric that is water-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain over time.

Another great lounge series from HOUE is AVON. This lounge series, which features a 2-seater sofa, chair, ottoman, and a lounge table, has a low profile and light appearance that packs tons of comfort. Just like LEVEL, AVON cushions are made with Sunbrella fabric. Plus, AVON was designed to be styled with or without the cushions.

If you’d rather not deal with the fuss of cushions, opt for HOUE’s CLICK Outdoor Rocking Chair. This simple, honest, and ergonomic design features plastic lamellas that provide excellent comfort without cushion. The lamellas can be “clicked” on and off, making it possible to modify the look of the chair by changing or mixing different lamella colors.

Lounge in luxury outdoors with Ferm Living’s Desert Lounge Series. The series, which started with a tubular, powder-coated steel chair with an interchangeable handwoven seat, has expanded to include an even more plush seating option. The water-resistant, UV-resistant, and stain-repellent outdoor bouclé upholstery brings the softness of indoor luxury into your Nordic retreat.

For a similar softness with a more organic expression, the Rouli Series is a versatile yet simple modular sofa system. With two elements––a center module and a pouf––Rouli can provide sofa-style seating or individual lounge seating. The name is derived from rouli, the French term for the gentle sway of waves in the ocean.

Ferm Living’s Staffa Coffee Tables and Side Tables are the perfect accompaniment to the Rouli series. With shapes inspired by volcanic rock formations found on the ancient Scottish island of Staffa, each piece is crafted entirely from a glass fiber-reinforced concrete, resulting in an outdoor-friendly piece with a unique texture. Staffa is the word for pillar in old Norse, the perfect description for these tables which appear to be carved from stone.

Inspired by the bull-nose edge tiles seen around Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s Mallorcan estate, the Deya Side Table is a fantastically unique outdoor side table in a lovely shade of green. The rounded edges of each tile softens transitions, creating a seamless and tactile connection between surfaces.

Normann Copenhagen’s Bit Series, which began with a stool made from recycled bits of plastic, now features a lounge chair and coffee table that’s perfect for an outdoor living space. We love the pixelated aesthetic and playful charisma of these designs that accommodate the diverse needs of modern life.

The sleek lines and graceful contours of MUUTO’s Linear Steel Coffee Table is the perfect fit for any Nordic-inspired outdoor retreat. This outdoor coffee table comes in two sizes in Black, Burnt Orange, Grey (pictured above), and Pale Blue.

Settle into supreme comfort with MUUTO’s Settle Sofa Series, which is designed for all-day relaxation. Notice how the visible belts and fine detailing of the lightweight steel frame exude elegance while the FSC-certified mahogany armrests add the perfect amount of warmth and texture while doubling as a resting place for a drink or a book. The plush cushions are made with quick-dry foam, making them perfect for outdoor use.

Outdoor Rugs and Pillows

Add warmth, texture, and tactile comfort with these outdoor rugs and pillows.

Ferm Living drew inspiration from the rugged charm of Nordic landscapes with this highly textural Norte Outdoor Rug. We love its abstract form that grounds an outdoor lounge seating area.

The Ply Rug from MUUTO is another great outdoor rug option. Made from recycled post-consumer polyester, this rug is naturally moisture-resistant. This durable indoor/outdoor rug is ideal for patios, decks, and garden seating areas.

The Way Rug is a flat-weave rug made from recycled PET yarn woven into a two-tone design that almost has a maritime feel. The Way Cushion has the same tactile yet durable finish with the same asymmetrical fringe detail. While we love the idea of creating a cozy lounge space on the floor with these two pieces, you could also use them to complement a sofa set.

The quick-drying and weather-resistant E500 Embrace Outdoor Lounge Pillow from Carl Hansen & Søn adds extra comfort to any lounge chair or sofa. The cushion comes in a variety of Agora Life textiles in earthy tones that work beautifully with the Embrace Modular series.

Ferm Living’s sophisticated Strand Outdoor Cushion is made from a water-resistant coated yarn-died organic cotton, making it ok to leave on the deck during a light rain shower. Choose from several calming fabrics in earthy tones various striped patterns.

The PUI Outdoor Cushion from HOUE is made with a sustainable Sunbrella fabric cover that can easily be removed for cleaning. Though designed to complement any of HOUE’s lounge furniture pieces, with 12 textile options, PUI can work in a variety of contexts.

Break bread and savor meals in the open air

Dining al fresco is such a satisfying and sensory experience. Just like you want to savor every bite of a home-cooked meal, these Nordic-inspired outdoor dining furniture and accessories set the perfect vibe for breaking bread with loved ones in the open air.

Outdoor Dining Furniture

The AH902 Outdoor Dining Table from Carl Hansen & Søn is part of a series of teak outdoor furniture designed by Alfred Homann that is united by a strict aesthetic combined with organic, curved details. The coordinating chairs feature the same slats as the tabletop.

MUUTO’s Linear Steel Dining Series is designer Thomas Bentzen’s cool and modern take on outdoor dining. Linear Steel features easy-to-clean surfaces thanks to slats that allow water to drain through the seats and tabletops. Choose from a variety of colorful and neutral options to add warmth and fun to your outdoor dining area.

Skagerak by Fritz Hansen is an iconic Danish design brand known and celebrated for outdoor furniture, including the beautiful solid teak Cadence Table. This classically designed table, designed in collaboration with Aurélien Barbry, is the essence of Scandinavian design.

The Skagen Table is another classically Scandinavian design from Skagerak. Crafted with solid teak, the name is a reference to a late 19th century period where Denmark’s most famous artists were staying in the Skagen area. This table has a true Nordic vibe. When left untreated, the table will develop a silvery grey patina.

The NAMI Series from HOUE draws inspiration from the movement of waves washing over the beach. The dining chairs and tables are made from 97% Danish household plastic trash, preserving the Danish design ethos of sustainability while being naturally resistant to the outdoor elements.

The CIRCLE Dining Table is a large round dining table that can seat 6-10 people depending on the size. We love the detail of the drawn in legs, providing plenty of legroom for each person. The tabletop is made with pre-oiled bamboo that surrounds the decorative granite stone that makes the center of the table.

With Normann Copenhagen’s Vig Outdoor Series, the integration of Robinia––otherwise known as Black Locust wood––sets it apart from the rest. Known for its natural strength, durability, and weather resistance, Robinia wood requires minimal maintenance while having a natural beauty unlike other outdoor-friendly materials. Combined with the steel, the result is an elegant and aesthetic furniture series designed to last for years to come.

If you’re short on space, the Allez Tables may be the perfect option to comfortably seat a few people for alfresco dining on a balcony or patio. The tabletop comes in several material finishes, all supported by cast iron legs that will patinate beautifully over time. While the Allez Table pairs beautifully with the Allez Chair, it also works with the Vig Chairs or other outdoor dining chairs from Normann Copenhagen.

Swedish design brand Grythyttan is known for their beautiful and timeless outdoor furniture that is synonymous with Swedish summers and holidays. The Table High Tech 110 features spring steel with a hardwearing compact laminate tabletop, perfect for outdoor use. "When you buy summer furniture from Grythyttan, your furniture needs are solved for many years to come."

Al Fresco Dining Accessories

Create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams with the Le Feu Turtle Pizza Oven. This luxurious gas-powered pizza oven from Scandinavia’s best-selling bio-ethanol fireplace company is packed with thoughtful design. Once heated up, Turtle cooks a pizza in under 2 minutes, enabling you to enjoy delicious pizzas for years to come.

Designed by Omayra Maymo in collaboration with New Works, the Pleat Pitcher is where sculpture meets everyday functionality––an essential component of new Nordic design. Its polished stainless steel silhouette is ideal for outdoor use, reflecting its surroundings to add dimension and tactility to your al fresco tablescape. Use it to serve drinks or even display flowers!

FRAMA’s 0405 Glassware is masterfully crafted by hand with a durable clear glass. Since each piece is mouth-blown by hand, every single one is unique, inviting you to add a touch of individuality to your glassware collection.

For tableware, we love Hasami Porcelain, which uses a special blend of clay and porcelain inspired by the traditional pottery-making techniques found in the Japanese village of Hasami. Despite their elegant and refined appearance, Hasami holds up to daily use, being dishwasher safe and easy to store. The real treasure of Hasami’s bowls and plates is its beautiful and addicting texture that is unlike any other tableware.

Inspired by the shape of buoys and traditional Mediterranean glassmaking techniques, the Boya Glasses bring a playful elegance to your outdoor dining oasis. Derived from the Spanish word for buoy, each mouth-blown, solid-colored glass is the epitome of artisanal craftsmanship. The stackable glasses come in Blush, Mauve, and Yellow.

Make clean-up a breeze while adding some warmth to your table with these soft woven Gather Placemats from Ferm Living. Made from a blend of jute and organic cotton, Gather Placemats are a tactile accent perfect for outdoor dining.

Make the final touches on your outdoor oasis

With lounge seating and dining zones ready to go, now we’ve gotta make the final essential touches through lighting and greenery.

Outdoor Lighting

An outdoor-friendly portable lamp is the perfect addition to an outdoor oasis. We love HOUE’s Light No. 1 because it is solar-powered without sacrificing aeasthetics––the solar module is discreetly integrated into the design of the lamp. Adjust the light at different intensities for the perfect vibe. Use the handle to hang it from a tree branch, or let it rest on a side table or dining table.

The Transparent Light Speaker is a portable lamp like no other, featuring a powerful sound system that can be experienced from all angles. It’s the perfect centerpiece for an outdoor dining table, or a way to set the vibe in a lounge space. We just love its transparent design––just make sure you bring it inside when not in use.

Louis Poulsen is a master of lighting design, and the VL45 Radiohus Portable Lamp is just one of many portable lamps that work beautifully outdoors, emitting a soft, diffused glow perfect for gathering outdoors. Inspired by Vilhelm Lauritzen’s iconic 1940s Radiohus Pendant crafted for the Danish Broadcasting house, this portable lamp reflects Danish design history while being perfectly functional for contemporary life. We especially love how the battery, glass shade, LED unit, and leather strap are all replaceable parts, honoring the Danish design ethos of sustainability.

For a built-in lighting solution, opt for the PH 3-2½ Bollard. Featuring Poul Henningsen’s signature three-shade system, this bollard is perfect for lighting pathways or lining a deck area. This member of the PH series is made with materials that can endure various weather conditions. Place them along paths for a beautiful, functional outdoor lighting solution.

The New Works Karl-Johan Portable Table Lamp is an ideal companion for all of your outdoor pursuits. Whether you take it to light up a night swim on the beach, or let it light up your outdoor lounge area, this lamp is made of impact-resistant material that repels rain, dew, and soil. The lamp features three levels of brightness adjusted with a light touch beneath the base.

Part of Ferm Living’s Utzon x Can Lis collection, the Luver Portable Lamp features angled slats inspired by the louvered windows and doors found throughout Utzon’s Mallorcan estate. Luver adapts effortlessly to dry outdoor spaces, bringing function and refinement to your outdoor space.

Skagerak by Fritz Hansen’s Teak Oil Bollard Lamp has an old-fashioned feel with modern conveniences. The Fresnel glass scatters light beautifully while being easy to take out and clean between uses.

Outdoor Plant Pots

Incorporate elements of greenery to ground your outdoor space while honoring nature.

One of Ferm Living’s most iconic designs, the Plant Box offers ample space for growing herbs or other outdoor plants. Make it your own by selecting from a variety of earthy finishes. Supplement your plant box with trays and other accessories for a truly customized design that can act as outdoor storage in addition to housing plants.

Also from Ferm Living are the playful Rollo Pots, which feature an included saucer to catch excess water while also creating a more dynamic visual display. The saucer comes in different heights, adding versatility and dimension, especially when grouped together.

If you’re pressed for space, Ferm Living’s Uma Balcony Box discreetly hangs from a fence or balcony, perfect for adding greenery without taking up floorspace. Each box is made from galvanized steel with a powder-coated weatherproof finish.

LOUISE ROE’s Funki Pot Series is a sculptural array of plant pots carefully welded by hand with Brushed Aluminum and Raw Iron. This handcrafted process makes each and every plant pot unique. We love their raw, geometric form.

Inspired by the shape of a sea urchin, 101 Copenhagen’s Urchin Plant Pot features a large oval pot resting atop of what appears to be three massive legs, but is actually a modern take on the traditional plant pot saucer, holding water and providing breathing space.

Though not a plant pot, String Furniture’s Galvanized Outdoor Configurations are a practical solution for outdoor storage, especially for gardening and potting supplies.

Once you have perfected your Nordic-inspired outdoor retreat, make sure to consider the transition from outdoors to indoors with a quality Scandinavian doormat from Heymat. Heymat offers doormats that are valuable design elements while effectively scraping and trapping dirt and absorbing moisture––check out our blog post on the power of a quality Scandinavian door mat here.