10 rugs that will instantly upgrade your outdoor space

Whether you have a spacious backyard or tiny balcony at home, your time spent outdoors is about to become much more enjoyable. In place of artificial turf or other industrial-looking floor coverings for your deck or patio, it's now easy to find durable, stylish rugs that are designed to coordinate with your outdoor furniture and feel great under foot. In fact, the most versatile styles on the market are designed to work in both indoor and outdoor spaces, which means you'll be able to decorate with them all year long.

The reversible rug

This abstract-patterned, blue-and-white rug would add a handsome dash of colour and whimsy to any terrace or patio. It's also hand woven, reversible, and made in a Fair Trade Certified facility in India.  

Cecil Flatware Indoor/Outdoor Rug, from $419, westelm.ca

The bohemian

This trendy Crate&Kids design is only available online, but it's worth the duties if you're in the market for a colourful, eye-catching kilim-style rug. Flatweave and reversible, this design is made from 100% recycled polyester and intended for both indoor and outdoor use.

Kilim Indoor/Outdoor Rug, from $179.50, crateandbarrel.com

The designer stripe

Designed in collaboration with noted LA-based retailer, Fred Segal, this striped indoor-outdoor rug by CB2 packs a bold, graphic punch for your modern, minimalist backyard. To keep it clean, simply vacuum or shake; add mild detergent and hose down stains when necessary.

Navy Stripe Outdoor Rug, from $379, cb2.com

The minimalist

A subtle grey and white woven outdoor rug that's simple but well made, this piece by Winnipeg-based retailer EQ3 looks neutral enough for any space, and comes with a 1 year warranty.

Harold Rug, from $349.99, EQ3.com

The circular option

A fresh choice for smaller or irregularly-shaped areas that might not fit a traditional, rectangular rug, this water-resistant style is also affordable and made to withstand heavy traffic. The bold, zig-zag pattern adds a contemporary touch.

Safavieh Courtyard Grey Indoor/Outdoor Transitional Round Area Rug, from $64.60, homedepot.ca

The mini mat

Intended as a cute doormat, this colourful 2' by 3' rug could also be used on small, urban balconies next to a loveseat or patio chair. Made with 100% recycled plastic, it can be wiped clean.

Kaleidoscope Indoor/Outdoor Woven Rug, $42, urbanoutfitters.com

The bouquet

Some of the prettiest outdoor rugs can be found at Anthropologie. This unique botanical design doesn't require a rug pad and is UV-resistant. And, because it's only 0.25" thick, it won't take up tons of space in storage during the off-season.

Topanga Indoor/Outdoor Rug, from about $63.80, anthropologie.com

The nautical choice

This flat weave, stripe rug is made from recycled PET plastic, and fully reversible. It's also handwoven and yarn-dyed; the colours should stay vibrant longer compared to a rug that is piece-dyed.

Oxford Stripe Recycled Yard Indoor/Outdoor Rug, from $65, potterybarn.ca

The affordable rug  

Made for Simons Maison, the Canadian department store's in-house décor label, this 120cm x 180cm outdoor rug retails for just $40. It's also made of a polypropylene material that's UV-resistant and easy to clean.

Nomad-stripes Outdoor Rug, $40, simons.ca

The timeless gray

An angular but subtly-coloured design makes this a versatile, modern choice for any backyard or patio. This machine-made rug is moisture and mildew-resistant, and is designed to for foot traffic and UV exposure.

Wrought Studio Stenberg Light Gray Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug, from $119.99, wayfair.ca

Truc Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer, editor and stylist. Follow her at @trucnguyen.