Outdoor & Patio Furniture

Outdoor & Patio Furniture: Types, Materials, & Styles

When it comes to creating an outdoor living space, patio furniture is essential to cultivating the stylish, weather-ready and comfortable open-air oasis of your dreams. With so many types, materials, and styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select the ideal backyard sofa, poolside chaise lounge, balcony bistro set or porch-ready Adirondack chair for your needs. As we explore the various options available, we'll provide tips for choosing the perfect patio furniture for endless hours of alfresco conversation.

Types of Patio Furniture

Patio furniture can be divided into several types by their chief function and overall design:

• Seating: To enjoy the scenery of your deck or garden you'll want a place to sit. Patio seating includes lounge chairs, sofas, loveseats and multi-piece or modular outdoor sectional sofas. Each seat will be durably designed for outdoor use and can be made extra inviting with stylish outdoor pillows and cushions.
• Dining: Dining sets typically include a durable table and coordinating side chairs or benches designed for outdoor entertaining. Also available individually, you can pair a small bistro table with folding chairs in small spaces or outfit your big backyard with an extension table for dinner parties.
• Accent: Patio accent furniture rounds out your seating setup. These are smaller pieces such as side tables and coffee tables, ottomans, fire pits and garden benches. Designed to save space, accent furniture adds useful function and decorative style to your outdoor space.
• Umbrellas: Made of strong fabric with wood or powder-coated metal poles and stands, patio umbrellas provide cooling shade and protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. Perfect for raising above a dining table, outdoor umbrella canopies are available in a fashionable array of designs.

Materials for Patio Furniture

The materials used to craft your patio furniture will determine its durability, ability to resist the elements and overall aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the most common materials used for outdoor furniture:

• All-Weather Wicker: Resin-wicker furniture is woven with UV-resistant synthetic fibers that look like natural rattan. A popular choice for outdoor furniture, all-weather wicker combines durability with a classic look.
• Metal: Metal patio furniture can be made from lightweight aluminum, steel or iron. Metal chairs, sofa frames and tables are sturdy, durable and available in a range of styles with vibrantly colorful or neutral finishes.
• Wood: Wooden patio furniture is a timeless option that can be made from teak, eucalyptus, acacia or other weather-resistant woods. These woods are suitable for outdoor use because of their water-repellant natural oils. Wooden tables and seating require maintenance with an outdoor furniture finish but can last for decades, especially with the use of protective patio furniture covers.
• Plastic: Plastic patio furniture is lightweight, affordable, easy to maintain and can look like faux wood. Available in a wide variety of versatile colors and styles, plastic outdoor furniture can be a great choice for those on a budget.

Styles of Patio Furniture

When it comes to style, patio furniture can range from traditional, rustic and farmhouse to mid-century modern and contemporary. Here are some popular patio furniture styles:

• Traditional: Traditional patio furniture often features intricate architectural designs, curved lines and ornate vintage-inspired details. This classic furniture can be crafted with metal, wood or all-weather wicker and is a timeless choice for any outdoor space.
• Modern: Modern patio furniture is characterized by clean lines, minimalist designs and neutral colors that complement your existing decor. Space-saving modern furniture can be made from metal, plastic or hardwood and is a bestselling choice for those who prefer a sleek and sophisticated look.
• Coastal: Breezy and made for relaxation, coastal patio furniture often features a white, blue or pastel color palette, a resin-wicker, sailor's rope or weathered-wood construction, and nautical-themed decorative accessories. This casual style is perfect for cultivating a beachy vibe in your warm-weather entertaining space.
• Rustic: Rustic patio furniture is typically made from wood or distressed metal and features natural textures and antiqued finishes. It's a great choice for those who want to create a cozy and inviting outdoor space.

Choosing the right patio furniture for your outdoor space is not as daunting as it seems. Careful consideration of the types, materials and styles of backyard furniture available will help you create a comfortable and stylish outdoor getaway that you'll love spending time in with friends and family. Keeping the size of your outside space, your specific needs, design preferences and budget in mind when making your decisions will ensure you invest in a high-quality patio furniture collection. Your ideal outdoor furnishings will add color and character to your backyard, stand up to the elements and provide years of enjoyment.