Consumers seeking out the latest in patio furnishings will find that market umbrellas are as popular as ever. Sustainable materials are playing a big role in outdoor design. And ease of care is of utmost importance for tabletops and cushion slipcovers alike.

Designers and retailers say green materials have gained momentum in outdoor living spaces as manufacturers offer more patio furniture sets framed in recycled materials.

"Most popular among these frame materials are resin," TodaysPatio.com reports. "With more companies seeking to take advantage of the ecological benefits, resin styles are now beginning to see a resurgence with more focus on the design of the furniture."

While traditional materials like wrought iron remain popular with consumers, they are best dressed up with colorful cushions, according to HGTV. Teak is one of the most popular woods for outdoor furnishings, which will weather to a lustrous silver gray.

Wicker patio furniture is getting updated with a new look that has greater texture from thicker strands of wicker, a trend that's in keeping with the move toward showcasing larger-scale outdoor pieces.

PatioFurnitureUSA states that larger market umbrellas remain popular because of their ability to shade a sizeable area, but now with a stylish twist. Instead of just solid colors, more umbrellas are coming out with patterns, stripes and border trims to add character to the overall design scheme.

Lighting innovations include more overhead lights and table lamps with waterproof shades and all-weather light bulbs that are an attractive and functional addition to patios and decks.

Faux stone tops on patio tables have also gained momentum as shoppers look for materials that cut the time they spend cleaning up. "You'll basically be able to get a real stone look at half the price and upkeep. They look very realistic," reports Chad Scheinerman, TodaysPatio's lead buyer.