OUTDOOR LIVING
By Daniel Keeley
2026 Pantone Color of the Year
Each cast stone table from Summer Classics epitomizes exquisite craftsmanship, undergoing a rigorous process of molding and curing, resulting in a unique stone-like appearance. The material’s all-weather durability ensures that these pieces withstand the elements while maintaining their beauty. (Photo courtesy of Gabriella White | Gabby and Summer Classics)
“You can’t please everyone, so you got to please yourself.” This iconic line in Rick Nelson’s aptly named 1972 song, “Garden Party,” has become a mantra for self-validation, motivation and avoiding burnout. True as it may be, I wonder if the powers at Pantone wish they had tried to please a few more people when selecting the 2026 color of the year. The introduction of Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer was met with more than a little ire from the public, with home designers being among the loudest critics.
Why has a simple color caused such a stink? Well, it is essentially (wait for it…) white, and while Pantone describes it as “lofty, airy and billowy,” critics call it boring, bland and tone-deaf. Pantone says it is “a symbol of calming influence,” while critics say it is a symbol of elitism and recession. Pantone compares the color to “a blank canvas…[that] opens up space for creativity.” Critics find it completely lacking.
Intended for idle hours, the Camber Chaise Lounge features a sculpted, reclined form crafted of a powder-coated frame wrapped in woven synthetic wicker. Soft, quick-dry cushions in machine-washable Sunbrella fabric make it as inviting as it is enduring. (Photo courtesy of Neighbor)
Wow, that is a lot of hullabaloo over a color! As a designer myself, I will say that spaces, products and materials in the home-design world have been trending more toward rich colors and self-expression rather than the basic, safer “greige” of years past. But hey, nobody at Pantone asked me, and at the end of the day, I think Mr. Nelson said it well: “You got to please yourself.”
So, as you plan for your own garden party, we hope you find inspiration from these Cloud Dancer-inspired products.
The Uttermost Outdoor Collection brings beauty and warmth to any outdoor space with pieces that are both stylish and durable. The bolster back sofa features a floating back pillow suspended by a powder-coated aluminum support. The Saltwater coffee table combines natural sand and concrete to create a wavy, textured finish with remarkable depth. (Photo courtesy of Uttermost)
Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Insula is a modular sofa system inspired by traditional seating found in Arab majlis and is meant for socializing. The Roll Stool brings plush cushioning to the fore of the design. (Photo courtesy of Kettal)
Led by design and refined by engineering, ORE precisely crafts steel garden elements that make a statement and refine any environment. Its fire features are fully customizable with many available finishes and configurations. (Photo courtesy of ORE)
Taurus’ soft, contemporary design feels light and airy, bringing indoor sophistication to outdoor spaces. Its signature seating blends fashion and function with an open, large-rope weave wrapped around curvaceous aluminum frames. The result is a distinctively chic aesthetic that feels cool in any weather. (Photo courtesy of Vanguard Furniture)
