Sit-back-and-relax seating for lazy summer days
Whether you prefer Sun Or Shade, these country-style Seats, Swings and loungers Offer a comfortable place to chill Out and enjoy the view
Outside winner
‘This garden furniture collection scores highly for both function and form – it needs very little attention to keep its elegance intact for years to come,’ says John Sims-hilditch, Co-founder, Neptune. ‘Crafted from galvanised steel, it will fare well come wind, rain or shine and its comfy waterrepellent cushions have washable covers. Add a matching coffee table so you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast or afternoon tea.’
fringe benefits
What better way to while away a free moment than luxuriating in a shady spot beneath the trees, swaying gently in a country-style hammock, its crochet and tassel edging fluttering in the breeze? made from cotton and mixed fibres, this hammock has a broad spreader bar to keep it in shape and loops to attach it are provided, although a length of rope might be needed depending on the distance between the two trees.
natural beauty
‘eucalyptus wood is a popular choice for outdoor furniture,’ says Nicola Gidlow, Buyer for outdoor Living, John Lewis. ‘it doesn’t tend to fade as much as other woods and offers good value for money. We’re seeing eucalyptus being used more often now there have been advances in the types of finishes that can be applied to it to reduce pinkish tones and create a more luxurious feel.’
hanging out
‘rattan furniture is very fashionable at the moment as is the colour grey for homes, and here you have the perfect combination of both,’ says Claire Krier, owner, idyll Home. ‘A hanging chair has a soothing rocking motion and a modern country look, but the rattan gives this one a more casual, organic impression, softening the effect.’ The chair is made from real rattan and painted, so it would need to be stored indoors during the winter.
Mid-century style
These 1950s-inspired chairs are a light, elegant and surprisingly comfortable design, and would be an eye-catching addition in any country garden. To create the chairs, durable plastic ‘string’ is woven onto a strong metal frame. Don’t leave them outdoors for long periods, though. Fortunately, they’ll look just as good inside.
Double daybed
This eye-catching pod-style daybed is made for two and ideal for a larger country garden. ‘It offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy your surroundings,’ says Caroline Harvey, Garden Furniture Buyer for Wyevale Garden Centres. ‘As the daybed has an aluminium frame and a synthetic weave, it can be left outside, but the cushions will need to be packed away indoors.’
Recline in comfort
If the shape looks familiar, it’s because these distinctive slatted-back loungers are based on traditional Adirondack chairs. They need to be assembled but once that’s done, you can enjoy many an afternoon in absolute comfort, with your feet up on the leg rest. These recliners are made from acacia wood, then given a painted or oiled finish. After use, simply fold them away.