A patio is an extension of your outdoor leisure life, an ideal space for you to relax or have a conversation. How to make your patio both practical and comfortable? Choosing a set of suitable or comfortable chairs is key. Whether it is a book club or a barbecue party, comfortable and stylish outdoor chairs can maximize the entertaining experience. However, faced with so many options, how do you make the best choice? Read on to share 6 steps to help you find the ideal chairs for your outdoor oasis.
Step 1: Consider the Purpose of the Chair
The first step to consider when buying chairs is: what do you want to use these chairs for? Different uses determine different types of chairs. For example, if you want to upgrade your patio to an outdoor dining room, consider buying more dining chair sets. If you just want to relax and rest, a modular sofa, rocking chair, or Adirondack chair is more suitable. Clarifying the main function of the chair can help narrow down the selection and ensure that the chair fits your lifestyle and layout.
Step 2: Choose the Ideal Material
Outdoor weather can be unpredictable, so choosing a durable outdoor chair can help you save significantly on long-term costs. If you live in a humid or rainy area, consider materials like aluminum, resin, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which are resistant to rust and decay. If you have a higher budget and prefer a natural aesthetic, teak or eucalyptus wood would be excellent choices.
Step 3: Select the Type of Chair
After determining the purpose and ideal material, you can start to choose the type of outdoor chair you want. We have sorted out the uses and space required for different types of chairs as follows:
- Adirondack Chairs: These low-slung chairs with wide armrests are ideal for lounging, reading, or enjoying a sunset. They require moderate space and are best for patios, decks, or around fire pits.
- Dining Chairs: Designed for outdoor meals, these upright chairs pair with dining tables and are perfect for patios used for entertaining. Make sure there’s enough room for both the table and guests to move around comfortably.
- Chaise Lounges: Great for sunbathing or poolside relaxation, these long reclining chairs need more space due to their extended length. They work best in spacious patios or pool decks.
- Lounge Chairs: With cushioned seats and a more relaxed shape, lounge chairs offer comfort for casual conversations or naps. They require more floor space and are ideal for larger patios or covered terraces.
- Rocking Chairs: These add a charming, nostalgic vibe and are perfect for porches or shaded areas. Be sure to allow clearance behind and in front of the chair for the rocking motion.
- Foldable or Stackable Chairs: These are space-saving solutions ideal for smaller patios or occasional use. They’re easy to store and bring out when extra seating is needed.
Step 4: Determine the Style of the Chair
Choosing chair styles that match your patio’s overall theme ensures a cohesive and harmonious outdoor space.A modern minimalist style terrace should choose chairs with modern elements, such as: clean lines, neutral tones, and metal parts. For a vintage patio, wooden chairs with curved armrests or wicker details may be more suitable for your space. In addition, we can also strengthen the theme style of the terrace by adding some other elements, such as table mats, cushions, lights, etc.
Step 5: Consider Your Budget
You can find quality outdoor chairs for every budget, as follows:
If you’re on a limited budget, consider outdoor chairs made from resin or polyethylene plastic. These materials are affordable, durable, and easy to maintain.
Recommended Brands:
- IKEA: Offers a wide variety of budget-friendly outdoor furniture with practical designs.
- Keter: Specializes in resin and plastic outdoor furniture, known for its durability and low-maintenance features.
- Serwall: Focuses on HDPE Adirondack-style chairs that are affordable and deliver great value for money.
If you’re willing to invest more, teak wood, wrought iron, or polywood are excellent choices that offer both longevity and timeless style.
Recommended Brands:
- Polywood: Known for its high-quality polywood furniture, offering excellent durability, low maintenance, and a wide range of colors.
- Crate & Barrel: offers stylish, premium-quality outdoor furniture crafted from teak, metal, and other upscale materials.
- Castelle: Renowned for its beautifully crafted cast aluminum and wrought iron outdoor furniture that combines elegant design with long-lasting performance.
Final Thought
Creating a practical and comfortable patio hinges on choosing the right outdoor chairs. This guide offers 6 steps to help you find ideal chairs that blend beauty with functionality, enhancing your outdoor leisure experience, from clarifying purpose and selecting durable materials to picking suitable styles, matching aesthetics, and considering your budget.