Outdoor spaces are a true treasure. They have a lot of potential to become your favourite spot to hang out and spend your free time. But to do this you should have an organised space that's also functional and practical. One of the most important elements of outdoor lounging is the furniture you choose. This is not the same type of furniture we use indoors. Your outdoor lounge set should be made of special, durable, weather-resistant materials.
What to Consider when Buying
Materials
Wood
Wood is one of the most traditional furniture materials. People have been using it for this purpose for a very long time. It has a gorgeous look and it’s fairly easy to work with. Because of its construction, it provides a strong and firm framework for beds, benches, tables, chairs and other furniture pieces. There's a wide variety of outdoor patio lounge furniture made from wood you can choose from.
Australian manufacturers take the weather in consideration and create weather-resistant pieces that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Hardwoods are the best choice when it comes to outdoor furniture. Softwoods like cedar and fir won’t do as well when exposed to the elements. Hardwoods are sturdier and will last for many years. Naturally, this means they are more costly but the investment is worth making.
Metal
If you’re looking for something extra durable, metal is without a doubt the strongest one in the bunch. Even when the frames and details are thinner and more intricate, the structure will still be sturdy and strong. When handled right, it can be moulded into a plethora of shapes. This results in complex exterior designs. Plus, it goes well with wood and glass as well.
If the craftsman knows the job perfectly, you’ll get a piece of furniture with no nuts and bolts. These people are able to create a continuous design without any assistance. However, metal has its disadvantages. When you leave it under the sun for a long time, it gets hot and you won’t be able to sit in it. Also, think about rust. Without the proper care, maintenance and coating, it can appear as a problem after a while.
Resin and Plastic
Over the years, materials such as plastic and resin have gained a lot of popularity. Because of the hybrid combinations, innovative manufacturing and creativity, polymers like these can take many shapes and can handle a variety of designs.
Synthetic materials are typically affordable, lightweight, and pliable enough to fit into any type of interior and exterior design. You won’t need to coat them with paint because the colour is added during production as chemical makeup. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain which is very important when it comes to outdoor furniture.
Miscellaneous Materials
Besides the classics like wood, plastic and metal, there are other materials that can complement them and complete the look of a set of dining tables or a lounge. HPL or high-pressure laminate is one of them. It looks elegant and it’s very durable. What makes it most suitable for the outdoors are the scratch and stain-resistant properties.
There's also tempered glass. We usually see it as a top on the outdoor patio lounge furniture tables. If you want to give the entire outdoor ambience a refined and polished touch, lacquered glass is fantastic to do so. It's also weather-resistant. Concrete is another popular choice, very characteristic of outdoor furniture. It's permanent, sturdy, weather-resistant and can take many shapes and forms. The only drawback is that it’s heavy and hard to move around.
Choose Your Style
You should give your outdoor area the same level of detail as your indoor one. It should complement the architecture of the house and function as a sort of extension to the indoors. The outdoor surroundings matter as well. There's a plethora of choices when it comes to style and design. Keeping in mind your priorities, you’ll find what you need.
There's also an option to make the outdoors completely different from the indoors. A sort of contrast can never hurt anyone. But it all depends on your personal preference. If you have a modern home, the outdoors can be rustic or traditional. This will make it stand out. But if you want to complement the modern design, go for furniture with soft and clean lines.
The Weather is Important
The climate you live in will have a huge impact on the type of material you choose for the outdoor furniture. Is it rainy? Is it hot or cold? Does it rain a lot? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your choices. Wood can splinter and crack in a very hot climate, and continuous exposure to moisture can make it decay.
If you reside in a windy area, stay away from aluminium furniture because strong winds can easily blow it away. Iron is sturdy and heavy but when exposed to seaside salty air, it will get damaged after a while. The sun is the greatest threat. It can change the colour of the furniture, fade it away, decay certain fabrics and plastic can deteriorate.
Don't Forget About Comfort
Every outdoor space is meant for relaxation, enjoyment and fun. And to do all of these things, it’s important that you feel comfortable. In case the set you buy doesn’t have cushions included, always buy some. Make sure it’s the right weather-resistant material and it’s fade and mildew-resistant.
When they’re not in use, store them properly in dry conditions. You can add bean bags, rockers, or chaise loungers to add variety to the outdoor area. They're all cosy furniture pieces that will turn the space into a cosy haven.
Measure the Space
Before buying any furniture, it’s crucial that you measure the space you have available. Ordering the ideal set just to find that there isn't enough room is not what you want to happen. Don't forget to include the space for movement around the sitting area as well. You should move freely around it without bumping into chairs and tables.
Size shouldn't be an issue if you have a bid area. However, pay close attention to the dimensions if you have a tiny patio or garden. In this case, look for smaller pieces of furniture that can double as a seating space and as a coffee table at the same time. Find practical solutions to save as much space as possible.
