Whether you want to create a place where you can entertain family and friends or simply relax with a book, outdoor furniture is essential to enjoying the warm weather and making the most of your living and dining space. So it’s important to choose furniture that’s both stylish and comfortable – luckily, there are a range of styles, materials and sizes available to suit all tastes and budgets.
BEAT THE HEAT
Dining alfresco is a great way to escape the heat of the house in summer so if you only invest in one piece, make sure it’s an outdoor table and chairs – these can be bought as a set or mixed and matched for an individual look, such as a stone table with wrought-iron chairs. Just remember to choose a setting that’s the right size for the space – square or round tables are better suited to smaller areas such as balconies and terraces, while larger, rectangular ones look lovely in the garden.
Another great option is outdoor lounge furniture, such as a plush lounge teamed with a coff ee table and outdoor rug. And if you love to lie back and relax, a sun lounger is ideal, while a cosy, upholstered outdoor chair makes a lovely place to curl up with a book. Want to entertain on a large scale? Th en consider built-in seating, which provides plenty of storage and seating for big crowds.
MATERIAL WORLD
Material-wise, look for durable, weather-resistant pieces that fit the theme of your home, whether traditional or more contemporary. Timber has a natural charm that makes it a favourite for outdoor furniture, with teak a fantastic option as it’s both eco-friendly and low-maintenance. Otherwise, pieces made from recycled or plantation timber with a solid look are a good option. Wicker and rattan furniture, whether natural or synthetic, have a relaxed yet elegant feel and are best for covered areas protected from the elements – look for pieces with a sturdy aluminium frame and tight weave. Aluminium outdoor settings look fabulous around the pool and their lightweight, rust-proof finish is ideal for summer entertaining. Wrought iron also has a classic look that’s both decorative and functional, though it can become hot in sunny weather.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
Once you’ve purchased your furniture, keep it looking good with regular cleaning. Most outdoor pieces can be dusted or vacuumed, or if they’re looking quite dirty, hose or wipe them down with a damp cloth and soapy water. You can also extend the life of outdoor furniture by covering pieces when not in use or storing them inside. Some will need to be re-stained, oiled or painted every few years, so make sure you check the care instructions. The finishing touch? Add some colourful tableware and cushions, plus an outdoor umbrella for extra shade. With so many great options to choose from, it’s easy to have a beautiful outdoor area you’ll enjoy for years to come.
PICTURE 1: For a coordinated look, team your outdoor setting with matching pieces, like this Chelsea four-piece outdoor lounge suite from Early Settler. It starts at $119 for the one-seater bench.
PICTURE 2: These beautiful wicker armchairs and table from Jati are perfect for entertaining or just relaxing with friends. Available in natural and dark brown.
PICTURE 3: A sun lounger makes a great addition to your pool area. This gorgeous Somers one is made from Javanese teak and is available from Jati.
PICTURE 4: The latest exterior fabrics from JAB Patio collection from Seneca add a colourful touch to any outside area. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the bold mix of plains, stripes, checks and floral designs create a summery mood all year round.
PICTURE 5: An outdoor armchair is a pretty yet practical way to create extra seating. This Loop armchair from Robert Plumb is made from New Guinea rosewood.
PICTURE 6: Kick back and relax with this beautiful Jimmy Pool Recliner – made from New Guinea rosewood, it’s from Robert Plumb.
PICTURE 7: A foldaway table, like this Lloyd gate-leg table from Wintons Teak, is great for smaller spaces. Also pictured are Brighton folding chairs and Brighton folding armchairs.