Why wait until next summer to wish you’d planned ahead? The time to start is now, and we’re here to make sure your outdoor spaces are nothing short of stunning by Summer 2025. This month, we’re spilling the tea on landscaping trends that are as eco-smart as they are envy-inducing. Next, we’re seating you at the cool kids’ table with outdoor furniture that’s as stylish as it is weather-proof. And finally, we’ll help you blur the lines between indoors and out, turning your outdoor space into a passport to paradise. Ready to dig in? Let’s make your backyard the talk of the neighborhood.

NATIVE, WILD, AND EVERGREEN

Say goodbye to the days of over-pruned perfection and hello to a wilder, more natural approach to landscaping. Native plantings are having a major moment, offering a low-maintenance, eco-friendly way to create outdoor spaces that thrive with local charm. By choosing plants that naturally belong, your garden practically takes care of itself, supporting pollinators and thriving without constant fuss. Add a mix of evergreens for year-round lushness, and you have a landscape that stays vibrant no matter the season.

THE GREATER OUTDOORS

Outdoor furniture has leveled up significantly, blurring the line between indoor elegance and outdoor durability. Many of your favorite interior brands now offer exterior collections that bring the same chic aesthetics outside, using weatherproof materials that can handle the elements without compromising style. Take a look at B&B Italia’s designs—sleek, modern, and so comfortable you’ll forget you’re lounging under the stars.

OPEN DOOR POLICY

Blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors is all about creating seamless transitions and cohesive design elements. Start with sliding or accordion glass doors—these expansive panes dissolve barriers, merging your living and outdoor spaces with a simple glide while flooding both spaces with light. For an elevated outdoor experience, think beyond the basic grill and embrace outdoor kitchens that rival their indoor counterparts, complete with weatherproof cabinetry, sleek countertops, and high-end appliances. Extend your indoor flooring or choose materials with a similar look to unify the spaces visually. Bring some greenery indoors to keep the vibe natural and cohesive. Add layered, dimmable lighting to tie it all together, and your outdoor space becomes a true extension of your home.

UPON RETURN

Whether you’re planning a trip focused on the outdoors to South Tyrol, Cape Town, the Alps, or New Zealand, Upon Return is the ultimate travel guide, curated by seasoned globetrotter Jason Claire. With over 4,000 personal recommendations from 60 countries, this online guide brings you destinations with soul, local flavor, and authentic connections. No more endless searching for travel tips—Jason has done the groundwork, offering handpicked favorites from restaurants and hotels to shops, galleries, cultural gems, and much more. Whether planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of it, a monthly subscription to Upon Return is the key to turning every trip into an exceptional experience and lasting memory.