When the sun is shining and the flowers are in full bloom, there's nothing more enjoyable than relaxing in your own piece of the great outdoors – your garden. However, the right furniture can significantly transform your experience. With an array of choices, from different styles, materials, and prices, finding the perfect garden furniture can seem daunting. This guide will help you to identify the factors to consider before making your choice.
Material
Arguably one of the most crucial aspects to consider when choosing garden furniture is the material. The material will influence the longevity of your furniture, its resistance to weather conditions, and maintenance requirements. While metal pieces are durable and weather-resistant, they may require treatment to prevent rust. Wooden furniture is beautiful and sturdy if it’s from a hardy variety like teak or cedar but requires regular treatment to maintain its attractiveness. Rattan or wicker furniture is very popular for its combination of lightweight and durability, but may be susceptible to weathering.
Metal, wood, and rattan each have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to garden furniture. Choose a material based on your preference, climate, and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do.
Check out our Garden Furniture Materials buying guide to learn more.
Quality
Good quality garden furniture is an investment. Consider the craftsmanship, the smoothness of the finish, the sturdiness of the construction, and the durability of the material itself. Low-quality furniture may initially save you money, but will likely require frequent replacements or repairs, making it more costly in the long run. Beautiful craftsmanship is likely to remain beautiful and functional for many seasons to come.
Invest in quality garden furniture from the onset. It may initially seem expensive, but it amounts to long term savings by reducing the need for replacements or repairs.
Price
The price is invariably a key consideration when choosing garden furniture. Be clear on your budget before you start shopping. While it’s important to remember that high-quality furniture and expensive materials will be costlier, there are ways to be savvy on price. Shopping out of season, in sales, or for refurbished items can all deliver savings without sacrificing style and quality.
Style
The style of your garden furniture should ideally complement the overall aesthetic of your garden and house. From sleek modern designs to rustic charming pieces, there's a myriad of options. Matching your garden furniture to your home's style can create a harmonious, balanced outdoor space. However, don't be afraid to add touches of your own personal style to ensure you truly love the space you create.
Your garden furniture should ideally blend and balance with your home's existing aesthetic, while also reflecting your personal style.
Space
The amount of space you have in your garden is another crucial consideration. It’s important to measure your patio or garden area beforehand to make sure your new furniture will fit well. Avoid overcrowding by selecting pieces that cater to your space. If you have a small balcony, a bistro set might be perfect. If you have a large garden or patio, you could consider larger sofa sets or dining tables.
Measure your space before you shop. Making sure your new garden furniture fits well is key to creating a comfortable and welcoming outdoor area.
Maintenance
The maintenance level of different types of garden furniture can vary significantly. Some materials require more care and attention than others. For example, metal furniture needs to be checked regularly for signs of rust, wooden pieces should be varnished regularly, while plastic furniture just needs a simple wipe down. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining your furniture when choosing.
Consider the maintenance requirements of each material before making your decision. Choose a material that not only fits your design aesthetic, but also your willingness to maintain it.
Comfort
While style and quality are important, comfort should also be a priority. After all, what’s the point of having a beautiful garden if you can’t relax and enjoy it? So ensure the seats are comfortable, test them if possible. You may also want to consider whether you’ll need to add cushions and if so, whether the additional cost is within your budget.
Your comfort matters. Ensure your garden furniture is comfortable to use and consider the possible need for additional cushions.
Summary
Choosing the right garden furniture involves a careful balance of material, quality, price, and style. The material will influence the longevity and maintenance of your garden furniture. Opting for high-quality furniture can save you money in the long run. Keep your budget in mind and consider out-of-season shopping for high-quality pieces. Lastly, choose a style that not only complements your garden landscape but also reflects your unique preferences.
With these key points in mind, you'll be well on your way to choosing the perfect garden furniture for your outdoor paradise.
