The pandemic has brought many changes around the world. If you have bought anything in the last two years, you know that some retailers are chasing product. Order times are getting longer and longer by the day. Despite the cold weather, now is the time to start thinking about the updates for your outdoor living spaces. Not sure where to start? Here is our guide for buying outdoor furniture.

Beautiful outdoor living areas not only increase your home’s property value but are great for social distancing activities. We are seeing more outdoor entertaining projects and private pools go into homes. These additions can really elevate a home and take it to the next level. Creating a dream outdoor oasis is a big project. This is where an interior designer like Gracious Home Interiors can step in and manage it from start to finish.

Buying Outdoor Furniture

One of the main elements for the ultimate outdoor living space is outdoor furniture. No matter the space, having places to dine and a space for conversation is a must. There are so many finish options for outdoor furniture like wood, metal, rattan, and concrete. Which material is best for you depends on where you live and how the outdoor furniture will be used. This guide will help narrow down your options and keep you from buying the wrong pieces for your space.

Measure The Space

Having the wrong measurements or not measuring at all is where many go wrong. Oftentimes, you cannot sit on every piece of furniture that you want to order. If you can’t sit, knowing how big the furniture is will help to ensure the fit and comfort level. Plan out where the furniture will be placed so you know it will fit. Create different entertaining spaces that are cohesive whether it’s one large or separate space.

Choose the Right Materials

Outdoor furniture is available in many materials. When selecting furniture for outdoor spaces, we take the location into consideration first to narrow down the right products. Here are the questions we ask:

• How weatherproof does the furniture need to be?

The amount of exposure to the elements and weather means everything when selecting the right furniture and fabrics.

• Is it covered or full-sun?

• How much maintenance is required and does the client mind caring for the furniture over time?

Pillows and cushions directly in the open without protection will get weathered and may fade over time. Covering them or storing them during an off-season may be necessary. Furniture made from wood and specifically teak will need to be maintained and this might not be conducive for everyone. 

• What kind of material is best for the client and the space?

Every material option will offer certain benefits such as being rust or moisture resistant. Different materials will also have downsides such as they could get hotter than others, their weight, or durability. Some materials are better than others and often times cost is involved with better quality and the most durable furniture.

Choose the Right Fabrics

The fabric brings a space to life. Cushions and pillows make your design not only more colorful but they bring comfort. Choosing weather-resistant fabrics means they won’t mold and mildew or fade as easily. Some of the fabrics to look out for are acrylic, polyester, Olefin, and foam for cushions. These fabrics are coated in acrylic or vinyl to allow water to bead and roll off. Polyester is best for shaded locations as it is prone to fading. Whereas acrylic fabric is great for direct sunlight and is UV, water, and mildew resistant. The most popular brand Sunbrella is made from acrylic material along with most umbrellas because of these benefits. Here is one of our favorites in Sunbrella from Dovetail.

Invest in Covers and Protect

Outdoor furniture is an investment therefore you should want to protect your investment. If your space is not covered, invest in good covers for your furniture. In the South, we see our fair share of yellow pollen every spring that covers everything. Protect your furniture and cushions from rain, dust, snow, and depending on where you live, saltwater.  

Be Selective – It’s Not Just Look or Price

Lastly, you want furniture that fits in with your style. While boxed dining furniture sets from a major retailer could be inexpensive, they may not have the style or longevity that you are looking for. Great outdoor furniture is expensive because it is built to last. Appearance and aesthetics matter but the furniture should check all of the boxes and must be comfortable. Look for quality and powder-coated materials and know the climate in which the furniture is going.

It’s never too early to start planning for spring and summer outdoor entertaining. Current lead times are out four to six months or more for furniture and accessories. If you are ready to create an epic outdoor space, Gracious Home Interiors is here to help! We plan out all aspects of the space and provide you with several patio furniture and décor options.  There are plenty of mistakes that could be made when buying outdoor furniture. That is why it is important to consult with a professional. We will find the right look that elevates your home and create an entire backyard experience that you are dreaming of.

If you love the outdoor looks that we have shared, contact us to order. Your patio will be happy that you did!