Create Your Dream Patio: How to Choose the Best Furniture for Your Outdoor Living Space

As temperatures rises in UK, it's time to uncover the patio furnishings, bring out the cushions from storage, and prep the grill for some delicious burgers. However, the furniture from last season may not be in presentable condition, causing hosts to hunt for new open-air seating options. They swiftly realize that there are copious choices available, which can be overpowering, particularly for inexperienced outdoor furniture buyers. If you're looking for fresh seating and dining possibilities for your outdoor living area, keep reading for guidance on how to navigate the ocean of variables.

Premium outdoor rattan furniture offers both comfort and utility to your deck or patio, enabling your indoor spaces to extend beyond their traditional boundaries. A weather-resistant dining set, for example, brings your dining room to the great outdoors, while bistro chairs set generate a living space that is roofed by the expanse of the blue sky. The initial step in selecting the ideal furniture is to contemplate how you intend to use your outdoor area. Do you wish to relish your meals on the deck, or unwind by a fire on the patio? Will you host grand intimate gatherings? Your answers to these queries will point you in the right direction regarding what to purchase.

From Rattan to Aluminum: Which Material is Right for Your Outdoor Furniture?

When shopping for outdoor furniture, choose materials that are low-maintenance and match the style of your landscape and home. Here are some options to consider:

Natural wood is sturdy and comfortable but requires regular maintenance and protective treatments for weather and UV resistance. Opt for weather-resistant woods like redwood, teak, cedar, and cypress to reduce upkeep.

Rattan and Wicker provide a casual, comfortable look for your deck, but will need weatherproofing every few years. Synthetic rattan and wicker have a resin finish that lasts longer.

Steel and Wrought Iron are very durable but require cushions for comfort. They work well outdoors but need to be painted or treated periodically with a weatherproof finish to prevent rust.

Aluminum, Plastic, and PVC are rustproof, lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to maintain with a little soap and water. However, due to their light construction, they may need to be secured in high winds and storms.

Your outdoor furniture made from these materials can maintain its appearance for a long time. But even if it's weather-resistant, storing it in winter can increase its lifespan. Before making a purchase, consider the available storage space. Also, it's important to test the furniture physically by trying the chairs and opening/closing the umbrella a few times to ensure that it's comfortable and usable to your satisfaction.

When shopping for outdoor furniture, it's important to not assume that the price of a piece is the best indicator of its quality. To determine the quality of the furniture, there are a few things to look out for.

Firstly, pay attention to the finish consistency of the furniture. If the furniture is made of wood, it should be smoothly sanded and free of any flaws, even in areas that are not easily visible, such as the underside of the tabletop. Painted metals should also have a uniform finish, without any bare or unpainted areas or rust spots. When it comes to wicker furniture, make sure that the material isn't unraveling or loosely wound on the frame.

Next, examine the joints of the furniture to make sure they are tight and well-fitted. Metal welds should be fairly smooth and the furniture should not wobble or flex too much (although some flexibility is okay, especially for tubular metal chairs designed to be springy).

Finally, it's always a good idea to check the retailer's return and exchange policy, just in case the pieces appear damaged or poorly finished upon delivery or pick up.

Outdoor living spaces can be enhanced by adding various colours, textures, and accessories. Cushions and throw pillows offer comfort and can be purchased with materials that resist moisture, mildew, and staining. When selecting outdoor fabrics, consider those that also resist fading and have vents for air circulation. A carpet made for outdoor use can create a cozy lounging area. Personal style and preference are important factors when selecting colour palettes. Bright, colourful patterns can complement a Mediterranean-themed landscape while neutral, subdued tones offer a relaxed, clean look. Remember that good outdoor furniture is an investment, so take the time to consider the available materials and products to create a comfortable and beautiful outdoor space.