How to: Choose the Right Garden Furniture

Choosing the right garden furniture can be a balancing act. You’ve got to consider aesthetics, functionality, and durability, not to mention space.

To help, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to creating the perfect outdoor space.

Assessing your outdoor space and needs

What do you need your garden furniture to do and how much space do you have to do it in? Begin by evaluating the size and layout of your garden:

Measure Up: Measure your outdoor area, especially the space you want your garden furniture to go. This ensures that your selections fit comfortably without overcrowding.

Purpose: Decide how you intend to use the space. Are looking for outdoor dining, lounging, entertaining or all the aforementioned? This will influence the type of furniture you choose.

Choosing the right type of garden furniture

Now that you know what you need garden furniture for, it’s time to get more specific:

Outdoor Dining: If you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, then dining tables and chairs are the ideal choice. Comfortable, robust, and spacious, dining set are perfect for larger garden spaces. Bar tables and chairs are a good choice for a relaxed outdoor dining experience and great for small gatherings. If you’re looking to accommodate a few more people, then living room furniture sets that include sofas and armchairs coupled with coffee and side tables are an excellent alternative. Some garden coffee tables can even rise to become dining tables.

Outdoor Living: If you’re working with a small space such as a balcony you need to look for multipurpose, fold-away, and stackable garden furniture. If you’re working with a larger space, then the options are much broader. For seating think garden sofas, armchairs, footstools, and chaise. In terms of outdoor tableware, you could consider coffee tables, side tables, even firepit tables.

Outdoor Accessories: Finishing touches can really make your outdoor space. Add a little greenery with planters, or for shadier parts of the garden that could do with a pop of colour, artificial flower walls are a clever low maintenance solution. Patio heaters and lighting are essential for outdoor living after the sun goes down.

Choosing the right style of garden furniture

Your garden furniture should complement both your personal taste and your garden:

Contemporary: Features sleek lines and minimalist designs, often using materials like metal or glass.

Traditional: Incorporates classic designs with ornate details, commonly crafted from wood or wrought iron.

Rustic: Emphasises natural, weathered finishes and sturdy constructions, ideal for a countryside feel.

Choosing the right outdoor furniture materials

The material of your garden furniture significantly impacts its durability and maintenance requirements:

Wood: Materials like teak are durable and develop a beautiful patina over time. However, they may require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance.

Metal: Aluminium is lightweight and rust-resistant, while wrought iron offers a classic look but may need protective coatings to prevent rust.

Synthetic Resin: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) wicker is weather-resistant and low-maintenance, making it a practical choice for various climates.

Ensuring your garden furniture is comfortable and functional

Prioritise comfort and practicality:

Seating Comfort: Choose chairs and sofas with supportive cushions made from weather-resistant, easy to clean fabrics.

Versatility: Select modular pieces, such as our Riviera Retreat Range, that can be rearranged to suit various occasions, maximising the functionality of your outdoor space.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Consider the upkeep required for different materials:

Low Maintenance: Materials like aluminium and resins require minimal upkeep and are resistant to various weather conditions.

Higher Maintenance: Wooden furniture may need periodic sealing or staining to maintain its appearance and longevity.

Storage: Remember you’ll need dry storage space or waterproof covers for your garden furniture over the winter months. Fabric garden furniture especially needs protection from the worst of the elements if they are to be enjoyed year after year.