CHOOSING THE RIGHT OUTDOOR SEATING
Homeowners are increasingly emphasizing and valuing outside amenities on their property, including nicely tended yards, decks and patios equipped with comfortable alfresco furniture – all of which can significantly increase a home’s value.
“Many people don’t put enough thought into their outdoor seating. But it’s something to take a closer look at, as you can spend a decent amount of time outside sitting around and entertaining your guests,” says home improvement expert Jen Stark, founder of Happy DIY Home, a leading gardening and home improvement blog.
“When choosing outdoor furniture, it’s important to consider where you live and the type of environment the pieces will be exposed to. Materials that work in any climate – like aluminum, teak, or synthetic wicker – are usually the safest choice if you are unsure,” says Grace Baena, an interior designer with Kaiyo. “Whatever material you choose, be sure to research how to care for it properly before making your purchase.”
The good news is that most exterior furniture today is constructed with materials designed to withstand the elements and resist color-fading, including attractive plastics and synthetic fabrics.
“There are various factors you should consider, including the durability of the fabric, the shape and size of the chair or piece, and the design appeal,” says Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of San Diego-headquartered Lawn Love. “Outdoor furniture will face rain, wind, dirt, animals, and other harsh factors, so whatever you choose should be long-lasting and durable.”
Swivel rockers make an excellent addition to your yard, particularly if you prefer the flexibility of pivoting quickly in your chair to address guests positioned in different backyard areas.
“Outdoor benches offer good value, as they can offer a lot of practical seats in one piece of furniture. Plus, they come in various designs and materials,” notes Yamaguchi.
“I also strongly recommend getting a hammock, which is a great option for lounging that’s very comfortable and fairly cost-efficient – although it can be a bit precarious to enter and exit out of a hammock,” says Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Chicago-based Improovy.
Lastly, carefully consider how you will stage your furniture outside.
“In an average yard, there is a lot of space to work with. But you want to create a small, intimate area where you can gather and talk,” Stark says. “To do so, I recommend arranging your seating around a focal point like a fire pit or an outdoor table. This will allow you to space out your seating while defining a set space in which to sit down and interact.”