5 Tips on Choosing the Best Outdoor Furniture
Tip 1: Get the Highest Quality Furniture
Quality outdoor furniture is usually made of teak wood or coated metal. These materials weather the elements well, and they definitely hold up to temperature changes. For best results, use an indoor/outdoor fabric. An interior designer can show you a large selection of these fabrics, since manufacturers have really been paying attention to consumer concerns about durability. Feel free to choose your favorites.
Tip 2: Plan Your Space Well
Too often, people buy furniture that is too large. Instead, make sure you get furniture that is scaled proportionally to the space. Another common mistake is to crowd too many chairs onto the patio, leaving too little room to stand. Also, if you choose to add an outdoor kitchen or fire pit, make sure you have plenty of space for those, too. You need enough room to safely and comfortably walk around, so avoid cluttering the space with too much furniture. While we’re on the subject, one excellent way to save space is to use dual purpose furniture. That way, you’ll need fewer pieces to perform the same functions.
Tip 3: Bring Your Indoor Pallet Outside
It’s nice to coordinate your outdoor setup with your indoor style if you can. For instance, if you have blues, creams and taupe inside, then choose one color for the large outdoor pieces, and add decorative pillows with the other colors. For added interest, feel free to mix pillows with different patterns and textures.
Tip 4: Warm Up Your Outdoor Space
Here’s a simple way to warm up your outdoor style: add an area rug and a coffee table. A rug anchors a space and sometimes adds some color and texture. Don’t think you have room for a coffee table? Use an ottoman that can serve a dual function as a coffee table instead.
Tip 5: Make It Memorable with Unique Accessories
Eye-catching accessories can be the focal point of any space. Plus, don’t neglect the lighting! Use planters or outdoor lanterns to divide a space or create a border. Several in different heights and similar styles can look chic, as shown here from Pottery Barn.
Lanterns add some fun, warmth, and a nice aesthetic to the area.
Enliven Your Outdoor Space Today
As an interior designer, I work with clients to choose the right furniture and layout for their outdoor needs. Curious? Come talk to me.
If you or anyone else is looking for help from an interior designer with more than 15 years of experience, please reach out and book a discovery call or Email dafna@interiorsbydafnaadler.com
