Trendy patio picks, accessories perfect for outdoors

From wicker to iron, neutrals to bright colors, choosing the best piece for an outdoor space can be a bit of a challenge in Louisiana weather.

Reggie Grieder, owner of Corner Collection, said he offers his customers more than just top name brands and a large variety of outdoor pieces.

Grieder offers customers from all over the Ark-La-Tex his personal knowledge an expert advice on what products he recommends. He has been in his family business for more than 15 years at his Shreveport location.

Grieder said some people like to shop online for outdoor products but he said those buyers are missing out on expert advice and viewing the product in person.

This summer, Corner Collection has become one of the top places to find outdoor trends and products to help local families entertain outside.

Grieder said he is seeing quite a few colors trending this season.

“Neutral colors have been popular for years locally but the grays, bright blues and even the soft blues mixed with bright colors have taken off too,” he said. “The bright colors are more for seat covers, umbrellas, cushions and rugs to make a splash. Changing out the small items are more affordable.”

Grieder said his business sells a variety of top name designers such as Alu Mont, Brown Jordan, Ebel, Lloyd Flanders and others.

“You just have to have that selection. We carry so many different brands and styles because you never know who is going to walk in that day and buy something,” he said.

One of Grieder’s latest product is transitional wicker.

“It’s not contemporary and it’s not modern, it’s in between. It’s more of a rounded, flatweave wicker than the small wicker or traditional wicker. It comes in gray tones and brown tones,” he said. “In the last six months it has really taken off. You can still [use this new type of wicker] with a traditional house because it’s not too modern and you can still blend it in and make it look good.”

Grieder said customers continue to mix and match pieces for outdoor living spaces.

“It’s kind of a transitional look where they will do a wood table with some wicker or metal chairs,” he said. “That has really caught on in the last two or three years and that continues to be the trend. It’s gained a lot of momentum where customers aren’t doing everything wicker or metal or wood – or doing your dining in metal and your deep seating in wicker. You keep your cushions and pillows coordinating and you can kind of tie it all in together.”

Grieder said another product that is taking off is the over-sized glazed pottery.

“[The glazed pots] have really taken off,” he said. “People are finally not afraid to do those because they are bringing out color. When you put colored flowers, it really pops. That’s an expensive way to bring in some color if you are scared to do it with your furniture. It really ties it in nice.”

Call 868-6267 or visit the showroom located at 8320 Line Ave. in Shreveport.

–Lydia Earhart