OUTDOOR LIVING TREND REPORT 2 0 1 6 GROW-EAT-LIVE
GROW TRENDS
G R O W ALL ABOUT THE BEES Bees have made headlines globally because of concerns over colony collapse (aka population decline). From cities to small towns across North America, people are coming together to help the bees by building pollinator gardens, purchasing sustainably grown plants (neonicotinoid free) and engaging in urban bee keeping. In 2016, fill your garden with bee friendly plants such as Asters, Black-Eyed Susan, Coneflower and Giant Hyssop. Frankie's Favourites: Canadian Honey Council
G R O W KITSCHY IS COOL In 2016, we are bringing back the cheesy and making it cool again. Outdoor spaces and gardens will be adorned with pink flamingos (look for ones with interchangeable outfits), garden gnomes and other unique lawn ornaments. This is a fun way to add personality to your yard, despite what the neighbours will think! Frankie's Favourites: Flamingo Pink Inc.
G R O W LIVING INDOORS Europeans have always identified with the benefits of having plants indoors. North Americans, architects and interior designers are finally paying attention to the indoor plant trend because it has been scientifically proven to increase productivity, improve mental and physical health, as well as reduce sick days. Frankie's Favourites: Suite Plants Photo Credit: SuitePlants.com
G R O W FLAMINGO PINK We all know pink is powerful and this year's colour trend for outdoor living is Flamingo Pink. Look for Flamingo Pink in outdoor rugs, accent pillows, flowers, etc. By infusing Flamingo Pink into your outdoor colour pallet in 2016, you are sure to be the talk of the neighbourhood! Frankies's Favourites: Rio Dipladenia Photo Credit: Fernlea Flowers
EAT TRENDS
E A T EDIBLE FLOWERS Sprinkle flowers like Lilacs, Asters, Bee Balm, Peonies, Carnations, and Gardenia on your salads or desserts. Look for fresh floral 'confetti' salads in restaurants and grocery stores or try your hand at harvesting your own right in your backyard. It is surefire way to give your food a gourmet touch and a sensational pop of colour! Frankie's Favourite Edible Flower: Pansies
E A T FOODS OF THE WORLD Growing your own food continues to trend in 2016. This year extending your selection beyond traditional fruits and veggies is the new cool. Expect to see a wider array of plants available at garden centres and grocery stores in 2016 including Okra, Chinese Cabbage, Lemongrass, Collards and Goji Berries. Also check out my new book Food to Grow (available March 2016) for tips and how-to!
E A T PICNICKING Step away from the table in 2016 and embrace the new trend to enjoy your meal on a blanket in the grass. Look for products to make picnicking easy like stylish picnic baskets, picnic blankets with built-in speakers and easily transportable cutlery. What a great way to reconnect with family and friends! Frankie's Favourites: Lee Valley's Deluxe Picnic Basket
LIVE TRENDS
L I V E MIXED MATERIALS In 2016, outdoor living trends are focused on mixed materials. Look for patio furniture and outdoor decor that mixes resin with wood, teak with stainless steel or wood with iron. This contrast of materials will create a dynamic interplay to any outdoor living area. Frankie's Favourites: Anything Teak
L I V E OUTDOOR EXERCISE Fitness moves outdoors where the health benefits are amplified over traditional, indoor workouts. In 2016, opportunities to get your fit on will be endless including personal outdoor gyms, beachfront yoga classes and treetop trekking. Embrace this trend by making the outdoors your go-to place to get active! Frankie's Favourites: GreenGym Outdoor Fitness Equipment
Photo Credit: Home Depot L I V E PIMPED OUT POTTING SHEDS More and more potting sheds will be turned into an outdoor oasis in 2016. Women are going to love this trend as a way of creating their own 'woman cave'. These spaces will not only be used for gardening, but will also be a place to dive into a good book, relax and enjoy a cup of tea, engage in hobbies and complete DIY projects. Frankie's Favourites: Home Depot's Santa Rosa Garden Shed
Photo Credit: Go Pro L I V E PET PERSPECTIVE In 2016, look for products from Go Pro that will allow you to capture your pet's perspective on the world through video. Collars will be equipped with LED lighting for greater visibility at night, GPS technology, alerts to notify you if your furry friend leaves designated fenced areas and can even adjust your homes thermosat based on your dogs temperature. Frankie's Favourites: Go Pro's Fetch Harness & Squeaker Dogs Photo Credit: Squeaker Dog
Frankie Flowers is Canada's most trusted gardening and outdoor living expert. As Toronto's favourite weatherman (Breakfast Television Toronto) and with his deep roots in the horticultural industry, Frankie is your source for everything outdoors! The Frankie Flowers team travel across North America attending consumer and trade outdoor living shows including Cultivate '15, The Independent Garden Center Show, Canada Blooms and numerous home shows. We have also spent countless hours talking to gardeners, watching social media trends and analyzing market research data in order to provide you with the latest trends in outdoor living. For more great ideas visit: www.frankieflowers.com