Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
Megan Slack

I had a misconception about the type of furniture you should use on a modern patio – Robert Downey Jr.'s colorful yard proved me wrong

Robert Downey Jr.

When you imagine a modern Malibu patio, bright pink wicker chairs and a statement glass-topped table might not come to mind. However, in the case of Robert Downey Jr., his eclectic outdoor furniture is an unexpected dream come true.

The first time I saw Robert's pink outdoor furniture, it stopped me in my tracks. The entirety of his home, with interiors designed by Fox-Nahem Associates, is a futuristic masterpiece that defies conventions, but something about the pink patio furniture felt exceptionally daring.

Most notably, the curvaceous home's architecture creates a neutral base that serves as the perfect canvas for bolder colors. However, I've never seen pink used in this way.

Typically, I see celebrities reserve pink for their interiors, whether through a dusty pink cabinet color or an accent pillow. However, I rarely see them bring it outside, especially in such a striking way. I always pictured minimalist neutrals, such as cream or stone, on a modern patio, but after seeing Robert's space, I'd go bolder.

Shop the look

On Robert's patio, a stunning Sciara table complements the pink and white Kiti chairs, creating a design-forward space that breaks the mould.

Lowri Allpress, the owner and company director at Jo Alexander Garden Furniture, mirrors my sentiments. She adds that unexpected uses of pink look stunning on a modern patio, but as Robert reminds us, it's essential to style correctly.

'Express feelings of love and see the world as fabulous and positive by adding splashes of pink hues in your outdoor space,' she says.

'Surrounding yourself with pink will definitely mean seeing life through rose-tinted glasses and creating a beautiful contrast with vibrant greens, silver grasses, natural stone, and teak wood of the natural surroundings.'

Just as Robert demonstrates, it's a good idea to combine pink with rattan and wicker, as these more neutral textures and tones keep his space grounded.

'Try adding soft blush or dusky rose hues to create a sophisticated, harmonious, and timeless design, or be bold by adding hot pink to add a more vibrant and fun look. Balance the colour by combining pink chairs with natural materials such as teak, rattan or concrete, or simply add cushions or throws,' Lowri says.

'Pink cannot fail to delight by bringing warmth, positivity, and flair to your outdoor space.'

Has Robert made you rethink how to decorate your patio, too? Let me know your thoughts here in the comments.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.