If you have an outdoor space, turning it into a summer retreat is a must. Whether you’re making over your backyard or just want to trick out your patio, you can easily create the perfect lounge area for you with the right outdoor furniture. But before we dive into our favorite outdoor furniture recommendations, you need to nail down a few things first. Here are some tips to ensure you choose the best pieces for your outdoor area:
Figure out how you want to use the outdoor space.
Do you want it to be a spot where you can host dinner parties? Are you looking to create a private oasis for curling up with a good book? Or do you want it to be multifunctional? Knowing all of the activities you want to do in the space will help you determine what type of furniture you need.
Buy low-maintenance items that will last.
Furniture made of weather-resistant materials and accents that you can easily clean are a must. Look for metals like aluminum and steel, woods like teak and cedar, and all-weather wicker rattan. They’re durable, rust-resistant, and can last for years with the right care. For your cozy accents—cushions, pillows, rugs—choose items with removable covers or pieces that can be thrown in the wash.
Don’t forget about storage.
When winter hits, it’s best to store as much outdoor furniture as you can somewhere inside, like in a basement or garage. If you’re tight on indoor storage space, consider stackable chairs, foldable furniture, or compact pieces. Another way to save space? Using multipurpose furniture. A ceramic stool can easily be used as a side table, or you can use a bench as the main seating for a hangout area and dining table.
Now that you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to shop. Whether your style leans more colorful and boho, or neutral and traditional, there’s a little something for everyone among these outdoor furniture picks. Shop for separate chairs, sofas, and coffee tables, or go straight for a conversation set or dining set, depending on what you want to use your space for. And of course, don’t forget an outdoor rug to tie it all together.
Outdoor Chairs
For a subtle pop of color, try this deep blue pair of wicker chairs from West Elm, and add cushions (in whatever colors you choose!) for extra comfort. Or, turn your attention to CB2′s armless wicker chairs with plush off-white cushions that’ll match any aesthetic. You can also go totally mod with West Elm’s handwoven cord and aluminum Huron chair, or relax with a good book on Pottery Barn’s cushy wicker Papasan chair.
Outdoor Tables
Show off your flair for the traditional with Serena & Lily’s gorgeous round basketweave-pattern table made with resin; keep it sturdy with West Elm’s concrete drum table for a fun, chic-but-industrial feel; or turn to this wicker pick that features a lift-top with hidden storage underneath from Overstock. Plus, there’s always this metal and eucalyptus wood coffee table available on Wayfair, too.
Outdoor Sofas
The pattern on this Anthropologie sofa will basically transport you straight to a beach cabana, while Pottery Barn’s square-arm wicker sofa will make you feel like you’re at a chic, coastal Hamptons house. Go simple and spacious with CB2′s cushioned sectional, or try Target’s more simple loveseat.
Outdoor Dining Sets
If you plan to entertain and host outdoor dinners and brunches, you’ll need an outdoor dining set like these. Whether you choose Amazon’s more traditional set of four wicker chairs and a matching round table, Wayfair’s picnic table-inspired set with a long wooden table and two benches, Frontegate’s adorable bistro set, or the brand’s seven-piece set featuring aluminum and teak chairs? That’s up to you.
Outdoor Conversation Sets
For a less formal furniture set option, try these conversation sets. Target’s iron bistro set and Amazon’s three-piece rattan set work well for smaller spaces (or for a small section in a larger outdoor space), while Home Depot’s sectional and coffee table combo works better for a more sizeable patio. And don’t forget Amazon’s five-piece wicker patio set, which includes cozy cushions and a coordinating coffee table.
Outdoor Rugs
You can also incorporate a rug to add some personality, texture, and extra comfort. Go neutral and coastal with Serena & Lily’s Seaview rug, or turn your patio into a tropical oasis with this budget buy from Target. Or, if warm-toned colors are your thing, turn to West Elm for this textured, burnt orange option. And if all else fails, go black and white with Target’s square stripe rug.
Outdoor Lounges
Fresh from a dip in the pool or just off a Zoom call, sunning on one of these loungers will swiftly revive you. If you love the look of rattan but are worried it won’t hold up to the elements, check out piece in UV-resistant materials, like the Newport Chaise lounger from Summer Classics. Or, if you are looking to add a modern touch to your patio, consider the Bahia Teak Chai lounge that features low-slung seating and a sleek style from RH.
Major Outdoor Upgrades
Add one of these to turn your patio into the ultimate chilled-out, never-ending vacation zone you’ve always wanted.
Post time: Oct-27-2021
