10 Timeless Pieces to Elevate Outdoor Living this Summer

This article was originally published in Home and Garden CT-NY in May 2025

As the days grow longer and the allure of outdoor living intensifies, curating a refined and inviting exterior space is on our minds. Whether you envision serene afternoons on a shaded patio or lively evenings entertaining under the stars, the right furnishings and design elements are essential to creating an atmosphere of effortless elegance.

Our design editor has selected favorite pieces from the collections of Kenneth Lynch & Sons, a Connecticut-based heritage brand approaching its 100th year of crafting heirloom outdoor furniture and estate elements.

These picks combine timeless style with modern comfort - perfect for turning your garden, veranda, or penthouse into a stylish outdoor escape.

1. Recline in style

These Neoclassical Chaises are the epitome of elegant style, complementing both historic and contemporary architecture. As showcased at designer Jessica Lagrange’s Palm Beach residence, they serve as the crowning element of an elegant poolside retreat.

We are particularly enamored with the subtle round motifs that grace the neoclassical frame-thoughtfully designed to be customized with delicate embellishments such as stars, rosettes, shells, fleur-de-lis, or even palm trees, offering a bespoke touch to this timeless silhouette.

Designer: Jessica Lagrange Interiors
Photo credit: Richard Powers

2. Layer in an element of history

This commanding Bronze Armillary Sundial, adorned with the signs of the zodiac, infuses the garden with a sense of historical gravitas and sculptural artistry. Once a vital instrument for charting the passage of time, the armillary today serves as both a striking visual anchor and a tribute to the enduring relationship between nature and science.

Offered in a range of sizes-from an understated accent to a monumental centerpiece-this timeless piece will elevate gardens of every scale with its distinguished presence.

3. Focus on classic styling and comfort

The Star & Dolphin Grand Chair offers a seamless blend of classical styling and deep, enveloping comfort, ideal for slow summer afternoons and evenings that linger. Paired with matching ottomans, the club-style chairs easily transition into a relaxed chaise arrangement, inviting hours of quiet repose.

A range of design motifs, finishes, and cushion fabrics allows for personalization, lending individuality to an already timeless piece.

4. Add a joyful presence in the garden

There’s something comforting and welcoming about this enchanting statue. La Brezza, inspired by Josephine Kern’s 1916 creation The Good Fairy, continues to radiate grace and charm more than a century after its creation. Recognized for its association with good fortune, it remains a captivating presence in the garden setting.

We particularly admire its versatility-whether showcased as a standalone sculpture or serving as a striking centerpiece within a fountain, complete with a lead basin and piped pedestal, La Brezza brings timeless elegance to any landscape.

5. Seek sleek lines

These Neoclassical Chairs are designed for comfort without sacrificing good design, making for an alfresco dinner party sure to last into the night. The graceful table legs echo the lines of the chairs and provide generous legroom and versatile seating arrangements. Add to this the ability to add a glass or stone top of any size – making the perfect setting for an unforgettable soirée.

The frames can be finished in a range of hand-applied glazes, allowing you to tailor the ensemble to your own aesthetic.

6. Scale up for impact

These magnificent custom Lead Cisterns - each five feet in diameter - were cleverly designed as grand planters for a sprawling estate in the Hamptons. With graceful lead rope accents and classic rosette motifs, they hint of old-world elegance. Their unique finish and fine detailing nod to historic tradition, reimagined with a beautifully modern spirit.

Designer: Dennis Schrader, Landcraft Environments

7. For alfresco chats

Imagine the conversations that will unfold on this elegant veranda! The Neoclassical Grand Chair reinterprets the classic club chair for outdoor living, offering generous seat depth for exceptional comfort - ideal for refined entertaining without compromising on aesthetics.

The streamlined neoclassical design complements both historic and contemporary architecture with ease, while the flexibility to customize design motifs and finish options allows for a personalized expression of style.

8. Add a splash

Rooted in Renaissance tradition, the timeless motif of intertwined grotesque dolphins forms the striking centerpiece of this dramatic wall fountain. The Dolphin Wall Fountain introduces a soothing sound element to the garden, as water gently cascades into its sculpted shell basin.

For even greater impact, this design was complemented with a large basin and curbing to create a more expansive, architectural presence.

9. The perfect perch

Set the scene for tranquil moments in the garden with the elegantly crafted Star and Dolphin Settee. Its intricate filigree seat and classical motifs-garlands, stars, and ornamental flourishes-enhance the symmetry and elegance of a formal landscape. Placed along a garden path, this striking settee invites quiet reflection and a perch from which to appreciate nature.

10. A dramatic focal point

This Cast Stone Obelisk lends a commanding presence to a formal parterre garden, serving as both an architectural focal point and a source of year-round visual interest. Its enduring form provides structure even in the starkness of winter, while its design echoes the monolithic symbolism of ancient civilizations, infusing the landscape with a sense of timeless grandeur.

For more inspiration...

Find more ideas and inspiration for creating a tranquil summer retreat by viewing the Kenneth Lynch & Sons Project Gallery. This Connecticut-based, third generation company designs and manufactures fine outdoor furniture and decorative garden elements that grace America’s finest estates, gardens, and parks.

Explore the Florentine Classics and Estate Elements collections to discover refined outdoor furnishings and timeless garden ornamentation - ideal for creating an elegant outdoor retreat of your own.