Great patio furniture brings comfort and function to your outdoor spaces. With a spacious table and comfortable chairs, a basic stone patio can be transformed into an alfresco dining destination. When complemented with the right patio furniture, even small spaces such as balconies and pocket gardens will beckon you outside. Use the following tips to choose the best patio furniture for your space. Thoughtful planning will help make your backyard your new favourite spot for lounging, dining, and entertaining.

1. Make a List of Patio Furniture Needs

Begin by thinking about how you would like your outdoor space to function. Do you want it to serve as a dining area on warm summer nights? Do you plan to host your next dinner party or your child’s birthday party in the space? Or do you envision a peaceful reading nook tucked into your outdoor room? Make a list of the activities you would like to do in the space and use it as a guide to determine what type of patio furniture is necessary. If the primary function of your 12×16-foot patio is to host casual evening cocktails, for example, there is no need for a dining table. Instead, opt for ample comfortable seating, several side tables, and a fire pit.

2. Try Outdoor Seating Before You Buy

When shopping for patio chairs and sofas, be sure to take a seat before you buy it. Patio furniture will likely be used regularly, especially during the warmer months, so it’s essential that the seating is comfortable. You and your guests will be less likely to enjoy your patio if it’s outfitted with uninviting furniture. For the utmost comfort, look for pieces with plush cushions on the seats and backs, or cozy up metal and wood furniture with fluffy pillows. Make sure all fabrics are weather-resistant to prevent color-fading or mildew growth.

3. Go for Easy-Care Outdoor Furniture

4. Consider Storage for Your Patio Furniture

Add years to the life of your patio furniture by storing it in a protected location during the off-season. A garage, basement, or shed will shield pieces from the elements to prevent damage or additional wear. Even the toughest patio furniture, such as teak chairs or a wrought-iron settee, will last longer if it is placed in storage when not in use. If your storage space is limited, look for patio furniture that folds or can be easily taken apart for compact storage. Stackable chairs can also help maximize storage space when patio season ends.

5. Match Colors to Your Outdoor Decor

When purchasing patio furniture, you’re not limited to neutral colors or the natural tones of wood. Wicker, wood, and metal pieces now come in a wide variety of colorful finishes. Look for furnishings that play up colours found in your landscaping, on your home’s exterior, or in your other outdoor decor. For the most long-lasting color, reserve bolder hues for cushions and accent pieces. These items will likely be used less often, resulting in less wear, and are less expensive to replace.

6. Invest in Quality Patio Furniture

Shop with care, checking consumer reports and reviews, before making a big purchase. If you’re sticking to a budget, plan to splurge on items that will be used most often, such as a comfortable patio chair or a durable dining table. You can save on smaller accessories such as pillows and accent tables.

7. Add Outdoor Rugs for Color and Comfort

Ground patio furniture by placing it on an all-weather rug. Textile advancements in recent years have brought many quick-drying outdoor rugs to the market. Soft underfoot and rich in texture, an outdoor rug will lend the comforts of indoors to your patio or deck. Choose a color and pattern that coordinates with your other furniture and decor to tie your outdoor space together. Make sure it’s rated for outdoor use before buying.

8. Search for Dual-Purpose Patio Furniture

Source from: https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/patio/designs/8-tips-patio-furniture/