Blog for professionals
Light, texture, shadow. Landscape architecture at the turn of the seasons
Early autumn brings something to spatial design that cannot be orchestrated at the height of summer: a drastic change in the angle of incident light. The July sun at 1 p.m., shining almost vertically from above, can be ruthless. It flattens forms, burns out colors, and creates deep, black patches directly under tree crowns or canopies. When September welcomes us to the garden, the sun descends lower toward the horizon. The rays strike at a sharp angle, and the light becomes soft, warm, and three-dimensional. For a landscape architect, this is not a matter of mood, but a compositional tool that verifies the accuracy of the materials used, the layout of sightlines, and plant structure. How can we utilize this short but incredibly malleable moment of the year so that a project gains depth that isn’t visible in two-dimensional renders? 1. Backlit design The low angle of the sun makes reflected light give way to transmitted light. Things that were simply green or colorful patches in midsummer begin to act as natural stained glass in early autumn. A well-thought-out sightline, connecting the main observation point (e.g., floor-to-ceiling living room windows or a covered terrace) with the direction of the setting autumn sun, can completely transform the perception of a garden. Leaves as light filters: Species with thin, delicate leaf blades (like selected varieties of maples, sweetgums, or katsura trees) backlit from behind create an extraordinary illusion of depth. Plumes and panicles: The airy inflorescences of tall ornamental grasses, fountain grasses, or feather reed grasses collect the low light, creating a luminous, soft optical barrier that separates zones without the use of solid walls. When plotting the cardinal directions on a plan, it is worth analyzing not only where the building itself casts a shadow, but also where the light point will be between 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM. Placing a transparent, textured plant structure there will create an effect that no artificial spotlight can provide. 2. Micro-shadows and the theater of textures In the scorching summer sun, the difference between smooth concrete and handcrafted stone with a rough surface can blur. The low, horizontal rays of the autumn sun bring out every millimeter of micro-structure. A ray striking at a sharp angle creates a dense grid of micro-shadows. It is precisely during this period that differences in materials become most expressive: Brushed wood and hewn stone reveal their full, sculptural character. Raw, rusted steel and structural plasters gain a deep, saturated shade. Flat, monolithic planes begin to look more noble if their surface has even minimal grain. If a design includes materials with complex textures, it is worth exposing them in places where the autumn sun slides across them flatly, rather than illuminating them head-on. 3. Shadow as a standalone drawing on the surface In landscape design, shadow is usually treated as a zone of relief from the heat. In autumn, however, shadow becomes a full-fledged graphic element that draws upon surfaces. Long, exaggerated shadows of tree trunks, vertical slats, openwork fences, or canopies lie on large-format slabs, smooth concrete, or fine gravel like a vivid pattern. Placing several trees with interesting bark (e.g., birch with white or peeling bark, or cherry trees) at the appropriate distance from a light-colored wall or surface causes the low sun ray to cast a dynamic drawing on the plane that changes from minute to minute. 4. Structural beauty when color disappears The greatest test for an architect is the moment when a plant finishes blooming and the leaves fall. A well-designed space does not fall apart aesthetically in October and November. When intense colors disappear, the architecture of the plant comes to the fore: Skeleton and habit: The rhythm of branches, the shape of the crown, and architectural stems. Seed pods and ears: Dried discs, spheres, and panicles that, in the low sun and morning dew, create sculptural details on a microclimate scale. Designing with the autumn and winter silhouette in mind requires moving away from "color patches" toward thinking in terms of graphics, lines, and density contrasts. Light as a full-fledged building material Lighting analysis at the concept stage is often limited to checking sun exposure conditions for the purpose of selecting plant species. However, treating light—especially low, transition-period light—as a physical finishing material allows for the creation of designs that reach their greatest maturity precisely when most gardens are falling into their winter sleep.
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September Landscape Project: A Guide for Architects and Outdoor Space Designers
As September begins, the dynamics of working on outdoor projects undergo a significant metamorphosis. For landscape architects and interior designers, this month is not only a time for concluding summer projects but, above all, a key moment to prepare spaces for harsher weather conditions and lay the foundations for the upcoming season. Designing an outdoor area for a demanding private client at the turn of the season requires balancing coherent aesthetics with absolute technological durability. Here is a comprehensive overview of the issues, materials, and vegetation to consider when designing terraces and gardens in September. 1. Plant selection: Structure and mature tones for the turn of the month Wise design of vegetation relies on ensuring visual appeal once summer perennials finish blooming. September is the ideal time to plant species that give the space an architectural character and remain effective until the first frosts. Ornamental grasses as a frame for the space: Miscanthus sinensis (Chinese silver grass), Pennisetum alopecuroides (fountain grass), and Cortaderia selloana (pampas grass) reach the peak of their visual representation. Their fluffy inflorescences add lightness to projects while also serving as a natural acoustic and visual barrier. Perennials with late-autumn structure: Sedum spectabile (showy stonecrop), Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower), and Symphyotrichum (asters) introduce noble, muted colors. After flowering, their dried stems create a sculptural pattern against the winter landscape. Evergreen and container species: In large-format planters made of raw ceramic or architectural concrete, Calamagrostis (reed grass), Skimmia japonica, and selected varieties of Heuchera (coral bells) with dark, burgundy-copper leaves work perfectly. 2. Material engineering: Specifications in the premium zone In high-end projects, resistance to local weather conditions is a criterion equal to aesthetics. When introducing elements of landscape architecture and lounge furniture into a concept, it is worth opting for materials that guarantee no need for seasonal dismantling or complex maintenance. Galvanized steel and powder coatings: This provides an ideal structural core for spaces exposed to autumn rain and humidity. The galvanizing process blocks oxygen access to the metal, preventing sub-coating corrosion. Combined with high-quality powder coating, it provides a satin, durable finish resistant to UV radiation. Tight-weave fabrics: Designed for year-round use, solution-dyed fibers do not fade in the sun and must exhibit high hydrophobicity. Rainwater beads on their surface, allowing investors to enjoy their relaxation zone without the need to constantly hide cushions during sudden weather changes. Natural steel and stone accents: Eucalyptus or teak wood should be paired with matte metal to give the whole a modern yet warm character that ages naturally over the years. 3. What to focus on when investing in year-round spaces? When designing modern residences in cities like Warsaw, Poznań, or Kraków, the concept of "seasonality" is increasingly being abandoned. The terrace becomes a visual extension of the living room 365 days a year. Fluidity of views from the interior: The layout of furniture and lighting points on the terrace should be planned from the perspective of the view from inside the building. In winter and autumn, investors spend more time in the living room, observing the garden through floor-to-ceiling HS glazing. Lighting scenography and microclimate: The low sun at the beginning of autumn requires the use of diffused light. It is worth including point ground lighting, heat radiators integrated into the roof architecture, and fire pit zones in projects. Water drainage ergonomics: Ensuring proper slopes and choosing flooring finishes with high permeability makes it easier to maintain the investment in impeccable condition, free of streaks and deposits. Conscious selection of high-standard materials and a well-thought-out plant composition ensure that the designed space remains aesthetically sound regardless of weather whims, becoming a calling card for any architectural studio.
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Light after the season. How does the autumnal shift in perspective redefine the outdoor area?
With falling temperatures and shorter days, the outdoor zone undergoes a subtle yet essential transformation. From an active space focused on direct relaxation in the fresh air, it becomes an object of passive contemplation. For the architect and interior designer, this time of year is a functional test: the terrace, visible through large-format living room glazing, becomes a permanent, year-round frame within the home's structure. Here are three key issues to focus on at the turn of the seasons when working with both individual and commercial clients. 1. Passive frame, or the architecture of the view behind glass In the autumn and winter period, outdoor furniture ceases to serve a purely functional purpose and begins to play the role of small architectural elements. The solid shape of a sofa, the proportions of a table, or the texture of finishes become a frame for the garden in its dormant state. When designing an outdoor zone with a year-round perspective in mind, it is worth opting for sculptural forms and muted colors that do not "fade" into the grays of the autumn landscape. A well-planned furniture composition maintains visual harmony between the interior and the surroundings, preventing the effect of a desolate, stark terrace. 2. The microclimate challenge: Protection or year-round exposure? The end of the season is when clients most frequently ask about winter storage logistics. A modern approach to design eliminates the need for total dismantling and storing equipment in garages or basements. High-quality aluminum frames and specialized, custom-made covers allow for the main structures to be safely left outside. The key is protection against atmospheric pollutants and snow accumulation while maintaining air circulation. As a result, the furniture remains in its place in the spatial plan, and returning to use in the spring requires only the removal of the covers. 3. Investment calendar: Spring 2027 begins in early autumn From the perspective of an architectural studio’s workflow, the end of summer is actually the beginning of the design cycle for investments planned for the following year. Material specification processes, stock reservations, and the customization of sets to the client's individual dimensions require time. Finalizing the outdoor zone concept during the autumn-winter stage guarantees smooth implementation without the risk of execution delays at the beginning of the next season. Project cycle stage Autumn / Winter Early Spring Studio action Concept, 3D specification, selection of samples Order finalization, booking installation slots Benefit for the investor Guaranteed supply continuity, stress-free schedule Terrace ready by the first warm days Reliable planning of outdoor zones requires proven technical support. For architectural and design studios, we provide full support during the seasonal transformation period!
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An architecture of scale and proportion. How to flawlessly plan functional zones on a terrace?
Designing an outdoor zone rarely forgives mistakes in scale. While interior boundaries are defined by walls and ceilings, outdoors we operate in an open space where the lack of clear reference points easily leads to two extremes: overwhelming the terrain with overly heavy forms or, conversely, the furniture "getting lost" visually on a large expanse of decking. For the investor, the terrace should be a maintenance-free sanctuary. For the architect, it is a precise functional puzzle that must reconcile the building's sightlines, the natural direction of light, and the fluid circulation of users. Here are the key principles of outdoor space zoning that help create designs that are coherent, ergonomic, and resistant to fleeting trends. 1. Defining sightlines and Indoor-Outdoor Flow The first step when drafting a terrace layout is not choosing the furniture itself, but analyzing the view from inside the house. Outdoor furniture placed directly on the sightline from the living room becomes a permanent part of the frame that the investor sees through the glass all year round. The low-line principle: In main sightlines (e.g., directly in front of the living room exit), low-profile forms work best. Low backrests do not obscure the view of the garden or landscape, preserving the visual lightness of the entire composition. Direction of opening: The layout of lounge furniture should naturally "invite" one to step onto the terrace. Sofas and sectionals placed with their backs to the glass create an artificial barrier and visually close off the space. 2. Division into micro-zones: Lounge, Dining, and Chillout Throwing a single set of furniture into the middle of the terrace is the most common design mistake. A luxurious outdoor space requires a clear division of functions, much like an open-plan living area in a home. Lounge Zone: Should be located in the quietest, most sheltered spot. It is the heart of the terrace, reserved for deep relaxation, social gatherings, and afternoon siestas. Dining Zone: Requires proximity to the kitchen or the living room exit to shorten the distance for serving food. Ergonomics around the table is key here – comfortably pushing back a chair requires a minimum of 90–100 cm of space from the edge of the tabletop to the nearest obstacle. Chillout / Intimate Zone: An intimate corner with a single armchair, chaise lounge, or fire pit, away from the main traffic path. Perfect for reading a book or private conversations. 3. Ergonomics and traffic paths The lack of wall constraints can be deceptive. On a terrace, user movement must occur naturally, without the need to squeeze between modules. Spatial parameter Recommended design distance Why it matters Main traffic path 120 – 150 cm Allows two people to pass each other comfortably without entering the lounge area. Passage between sofa elements and coffee table 45 – 55 cm Ensures convenience when placing a cup down while allowing legroom. Distance from table to railing / wall min. 100 cm Guarantees comfortable standing up from the table without bumping into background obstacles. 4. Modularity as an answer to changing needs When designing for demanding investors, both private and commercial, it is worth opting for solutions that allow for flexible layout changes. A monolithic terrace wall unit limits the functional potential of the space. Modular systems allow you to build layouts tailored to specific scenarios: from a compact corner sofa for intimate evenings to scattered lounge islands during larger garden parties. This is a level of flexibility that investors appreciate in everyday use.
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Cost versus value. How much does good garden furniture really cost in 2026?
In the work of an architect and interior designer, budgeting for an outdoor area is often one of the most difficult points in discussions with an investor. While spending tens of thousands of zlotys on a living room sofa no longer surprises anyone, a similar amount spent on a terrace can still raise eyebrows. In 2026, after years of dynamic changes in the interior design market, investor awareness is growing. We already know that a terrace is a full-fledged second living room. However, as professionals, you need hard arguments, figures, and technology to reliably answer the client’s question: "Why does this furniture cost so much, and what is its value based on?". Below, we present a transparent guide to the prices, technology, and real value of premium-class outdoor furniture in 2026. 1. The anatomy of price: What does an investor pay for in the premium segment? Good garden furniture is, in fact, advanced engineering hidden beneath beautiful forms. Weather conditions in Poland—from scorching July sun and violent storms to freezing winters—are the most rigorous testing ground for materials. The final cost of furniture from brands like Kunesti is comprised of three key technological components: A. Filling: Quick Dry Foam vs. Standard upholstery foam Cheap garden furniture often hides standard polyurethane foam wrapped in foil. The result? Water that penetrates inside has nowhere to evaporate, leading to rot and mold growth. In the premium segment: We use Quick Dry Foam with an open-cell structure. It acts like a sieve—water flows through it immediately, and the sun and wind dry out the furniture within minutes after a downpour. The cost of QDF foam itself is several times higher than the standard, but it is what determines durability for many years. B. Fabrics: Intelligent outdoor textiles In 2026, clients no longer want rough, plastic-feeling materials on their terrace. They expect the softness of linen and velvet, while maintaining resistance to stains, chlorine, and UV radiation. Technology: Premium fabrics (such as Sunbrella or dedicated solution-dyed acrylics) cost between 150–350 PLN per linear meter for the fabric alone. However, they are resistant to fading (high lightfastness scale) and feature hydrophobic coatings that prevent dirt from penetrating the fiber structure. C. Construction and details: Aluminum frame and precision welding The construction of Kunesti furniture is based on thick-walled, powder-coated aluminum profiles. Aluminum does not rust and is both lightweight and stable. Precision welding and edge finishing require artisanal work, which is also reflected in the price, but it eliminates the risk of structural cracks under load. 2. Real price ranges in 2026: What to expect? When budgeting for a lounge area project in 2026, it is worth using real market rates for the mid-upper and premium/luxury segments. Segment Price range (set) What it typically includes Basic 500 – 800 PLN Thin profiles, plastics, minimal warranty, short lifespan (1-2 seasons). Mid-range 2,000 – 5,000 PLN Better starting materials, furniture usually without specialized technical certifications, average durability. Accessible premium approx. 5,000 – 9,000 PLN Certified materials (e.g., OEKO-TEX, galvanized steel protection), original design, significantly longer lifespan, direct and problem-free contact with the brand. Luxury (multi-brand curators) 12,000 – 44,000 PLN Recognizable Western brands, costs of maintaining showrooms included in the price, frequent and high surcharges for finishing accessories. 3. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), or why Kunesti is worth it When an investor compares a Kunesti offer with furniture from popular home improvement stores or chains, it is worth using a simple economic calculation over time. This question has its own mathematics, not just its aesthetic appeal. In short: a more expensive purchase that lasts 8-10 years often ends up being cheaper than a cheap set replaced every two seasons—and that is before you count the time and nerves you save. We fully understand the challenges associated with defending a budget to an investor. We want to make this process as easy for you as possible. For architectural and design studios, we have prepared full support: Physical fabric and frame material swatches – which you can take to a meeting with a client. 3D files – facilitating quick implementation of the furniture into your visualizations. Attractive terms of cooperation See our full material specification on the Product Characteristics page and check exactly what you are paying for.
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How to design profitable outdoor spaces in the premium sector?
In the commercial sector, from luxury boutique hotels and city-center office rooftops to prestigious real estate developments, outdoor space has become a key competitive advantage. Investors know that a well-designed viewing terrace or a lounge area by a hotel spa translates directly into the prestige of the property and its profitability. For an architect working on commercial projects, the priorities are clear: the furniture must impress with its form, but its technical specifications must stand the test of time and intensive use. How do you combine rigorous contract standards with uncompromising design? 1. Material durability to HoReCa standards In private projects, garden furniture is treated with care. In public and commercial spaces, high guest turnover and the lack of individual care require materials designed for special tasks. Our collections are created with maximum operational resistance in mind. We use advanced acrylic fabrics and technical foams that do not absorb moisture (quick-dry structure) and are resistant to stains from wine, suntan oils, or coffee. For an architect, this means one thing: design security. The investor receives a product that still looks as it did on opening day after three seasons of intensive use in a restaurant garden. 2. Space flexibility: furniture that keeps up with events A hotel patio or viewing terrace rarely serves only one function. During the day, it is a relaxation zone for guests; in the evening, a spot for an elegant cocktail; and on weekends, an event space. Permanent, heavy furniture structures limit a facility's business potential. The modularity of outdoor furniture allows for rapid layout reconfiguration. Lightweight aluminum profiles enable hotel staff to change the arrangement in just a few minutes—from scattered coffee corners to a large, integrated corner sofa for a private event. 3. Aesthetics that attract Contemporary commercial architecture must be photogenic. Hotel and restaurant guests buy with their eyes, and the unique design of an outdoor area becomes free advertising for the property on social media. We are moving away from repetitive, boring catalog furniture. The rounded shapes, refined proportions, and unique color palettes of Kunesti furniture give commercial spaces a unique, luxurious character that sets the investment apart from the competition.
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Creating space for moments that matter
At Kunesti, we believe that garden furniture is more than just objects – it's the setting for your summer stories, a place for morning coffee in the sun, evening gatherings with friends, and a moment of silence just for yourself. It is in the fresh air that we experience those small, fleeting moments that make up the true joy of life. Our latest photoshoots aren't just a product showcase; they're an invitation to a world where quality meets inspiration and a celebration of time outdoors. Every frame, every weave, every cushion in Kunesti furniture is a testament to our passion for creating spaces that foster relaxation and a celebration of closeness to nature. Notice how natural acacia wood combines with our unique design to create furniture that is both beautiful and incredibly durable.
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About the moments that make a home
In today's fast-paced world, where every day is filled with tasks, deadlines, and notifications, the most precious thing we lack is simply time. Time to breathe, to pause, and to be in the here and now. At Kunesti, we believe that gardens and homes are more than just spaces; they're where the most beautiful memories are created. That's why our new Grab a Moment collection isn't just a set of furniture. It's an invitation to celebrate fleeting moments. Think about it. It's not the furniture that's the heroes, it's you. Your morning with a cup of coffee, your afternoon nap in the shade of a tree, or your endless evening chats. These are the moments that truly matter. It's not about having the perfect garden. It's about creating a space where we feel comfortable, safe, and at ease. A space where we can capture every precious moment.
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Furniture with soul. Quality that matters.
In a world where everyone chases scale and mass production, we at Kunesti have consciously chosen a different path. We believe that small things, crafted with passion, can have far greater value. Our goal isn't to compete with the giants. We want to create furniture with soul, with attention to every detail, and with respect for nature and for you – our customers. That's why, instead of mass production, we focus on quality and authenticity. We choose materials with a history and a future. Every board in our furniture is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified. What does this mean for us? This is a commitment that the wood comes from sustainably managed forests. For us, it's a symbol of respect—for the tree, for nature, and for future generations. We believe that furniture that becomes part of your family memories should be created responsibly. In an era where everything is "fast," it's this "boutique" nature that allows us to build true relationships and trust. Because it's not quantity, but quality and values that build lasting loyalty. How important is the origin of the materials in the products you choose?
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