Does your outdoor space need an image overhaul? Whether you’re giving a neglected yard a long-overdue makeover or making the most of a poky patio, picking the right garden furniture can make or break an outdoor space. It’s tempting to opt for furniture styles and finishes that align with your tastes or the design aesthetic you’ve chosen for your garden renovation. However, when all-weather performance is a necessity, function is also important. Ultimately, choosing the right furniture for gardens is a balancing act.
Choose Practical Pieces
If space is at a premium in your garden, invest in practical pieces. An expandable table with bench seating provides a space to gather with friends and family for al fresco drinks and dining. Modular seating is also a consideration, especially if you want the flexibility to experiment with various configurations.
Garden chairs can be primed for comfort with oversized cushions or tall coffee tables that can double up as a dining surface. Whether you’re in the market for something simple or want a multifunctional marvel to take pride of place in your garden, find what you’re looking for at Lazy Susan.
Easy Care and Hassle-Free Maintenance
Outdoor furniture calls for more maintenance than its indoor counterparts. Wooden pieces need to be treated to prevent rot and degradation, while keeping corrosion at bay can be a challenge if you’ve opted for wrought iron furniture. To save yourself a world of hassle, prioritize easy care and effortless maintenance when selecting furniture for your outdoor space. If you’re after easy cleaning and minimal weathering, synthetic materials are the way to go, with high-quality plastic pieces perfect if you’re looking for wipe-clean convenience.
Comfort is King
If indoor-outdoor flow appeals to you, you’ll want to ensure that your outdoor space is just as comfortable as your indoor living area. This can mean doing away with furniture staples like wooden benches and bistro seating in favour of more welcoming alternatives. If you’re eager to enjoy summer evenings in your garden, a movable sofa makes a great addition to an outdoor space. Keen to use your outdoor seating in summer? Keep the sun at bay with a cantilever parasol or awning.
Don’t Overdo It
Avoid the urge to cram too much into a limited space. Before drawing up your list of furniture essentials, take a step back and consider how much space you’ve got to work with. Dealing with a tiny space like a patio or deck? Bistro sets and extending tables are probably your best bet. Lucky enough to have more square footage to work with? You should have ample space for bulkier pieces, such as group sofa sets and oversized dining tables, where everyone can gather together.
Start by introducing the fundamental furniture elements to your garden before adding extras. If your space comfortably accommodates a scattering of seating, consider incorporating a few outdoor side tables to enhance the area. Is your outdoor arrangement looking a little sparse? Add character and bring everything together by utilizing garden-friendly scatter cushions, outdoor rugs, and weather-resistant textiles.
What About Storage?
Some furniture pieces can be left outside all year round, but others will likely need to be stored indoors during the colder months. If you don’t have a sizeable shed or garage at your disposal, furniture choices like folding tables and stackable chairs are a godsend.
Weather-resistant covers can stave off the elements and UV light if you can’t bring your furniture indoors, ensuring you won’t be facing a stack of maintenance tasks when it’s finally time to unpack and start enjoying your garden again in the spring.
Create Your Dream Outdoor Space Today
When it comes to selecting outdoor furniture, designer details and fancy finishes are definitely enticing. However, you need to think practically if you want furniture pieces that will accentuate your outdoor space and stand the test of time. Opt for hard-wearing materials that can be readily treated against the elements, choose maintenance-free pieces with minimal upkeep, and prioritize multifunctionality if you’re furnishing a smaller area.