Patio Furniture
Choosing the right Patio Furniture might be even more important than furnishing other rooms of your home, simply because it lives outside and is subject to the harsh outdoor environments. This doesn’t mean you can’t create a gorgeous, practical and affordable space. After all, everyone loves to spend time outside enjoying their favorite libation as they watch the sun set.
Outdoor furniture designs span the scale from chic economy to full-fledged luxury with a price tag to boot. So how do you choose, with the thousands of options on the market today? Begin with three questions: what is your budget, what style are you drawn to, and what materials appeal to your designer senses? First decide what level of investment you can make, and then let the fun begin!
Modern materials offer resilience, practicality and style in almost every piece. Resin or PCV is 100% weather resistant and can be molded to resemble wood or wicker. Pressure treated lumber uses chemicals to make the wood insect and water resistant. Teak holds up very well and is not affected by suntan lotions or oils. While metal is considered the strongest, it’s also expensive, tends to adopt the air temperature and is difficult to move.
Perhaps the most important decision is the dining area. Having space and comfort to enjoy a barbeque can serve as the focal point for the entire patio. Table and chair sets come equipped to serve four to fourteen. This is where knowing your space parameter is essential. It can save you from making costly mistakes when choosing what to buy.
Why have patios if you can’t lounge around? Comfortable seating can range from hammocks, gliders, rockers, patio swings and love seats, to name a few.
Hammocks can be stand alone, or the old fashion kind that utilize your trees. Swings come with sun canopies, are made of wood, iron or metals and range from $200 – $2000 depending on your needs. Gliders offer return to simpler times when they adorned our grandparents’ front porches. Today they come in smooth styles designed for two to fit any budget. Love seats provide cozy time together and invite a relaxing togetherness.
When choosing your Patio Furniture, take into account seasonal care and storage in the winter months. Cushions and pads might need to also be protected from inclement weather during high season, so choose fabrics treated with water and stain repellants. Living near the ocean has its own demands on the pieces, so you might not wish to pick iron or metal.
From here, choose additional pieces that fit into your lifestyle. Fire pits, canopies, umbrellas, urns and vases, and other fun accessories can enhance the décor and create a warm inviting space. Folding tables, rocking chairs and storage benches can all be used in creative and stylish ways.
No matter what your budget, taste or space, with some planning you can create a great outdoor living space. Then the only thing left is fun!