When it comes to creating a stylish and comfortable outdoor space, choosing the right furniture for your decking is crucial. Outdoor furniture not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your deck but also provides a functional and inviting area for relaxation and entertainment. Whether you have a small, cosy balcony or a spacious deck overlooking a beautiful garden, this blog will guide you through the essential factors to consider when selecting outdoor furniture that suits your needs and complements your decking.
Assess Your Space:
Before you start shopping for outdoor furniture, it’s essential to evaluate your available space. Consider the size, shape, and layout of your deck to determine how much furniture it can comfortably accommodate. Take measurements and note any features such as railings, stairs, or pillars that may affect your furniture placement. This assessment will help you determine the appropriate size and quantity of furniture pieces you can include on your deck. Get in touch with us if you are unsure about the specifications of your Mayfield deck.
Define Your Purpose:
Think about how you intend to use your outdoor space. Are you looking for a dining area for al fresco meals, a cosy spot for lounging and reading, or a combination of both? Understanding the primary purpose of your deck will guide your furniture choices. For dining areas, a sturdy table and chairs are essential, while lounging areas may benefit from comfortable seating options like sofas, lounge chairs, or hammocks.
Consider Durability:
Outdoor furniture is exposed to various weather conditions, so durability is a key factor. Opt for materials that can withstand sunlight, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Teak, wrought iron, aluminium, and synthetic wicker are popular choices due to their resistance to the elements. Look for furniture with weather-resistant cushions or consider using removable, water-resistant covers to protect them during inclement weather.
Choose Comfort:
Comfort is paramount when it comes to outdoor furniture. Select seating options with comfortable cushions or padding and ergonomic designs. Test out the furniture in person, if possible, to ensure it offers adequate support and relaxation. If you live in a particularly sunny area, consider furniture with built-in shade options like umbrellas, retractable canopies, or pergolas to protect against intense sunlight.
Style and Aesthetics:
Your outdoor furniture should harmonise with the overall style and theme of your home and garden. Whether you prefer modern, minimalist, rustic, or coastal designs, there’s a wide range of outdoor furniture options available to suit your taste. Consider the colour palette of your decking, existing outdoor elements, and surrounding flora to choose furniture that complements the aesthetics of your outdoor space. If you’re interested in choosing some new decking and are unsure about style, also consider checking out our decking range.
Maintenance and Storage:
While outdoor furniture is designed to withstand the elements, some materials require more maintenance than others. Consider your willingness and ability to maintain the furniture regularly. Wooden furniture, for instance, may require occasional sealing or staining. Additionally, think about storage options during the off-season. If you have limited storage space, choose furniture that is easy to stack, fold, or disassemble for convenient storage. You should also think about things like cleaning, and consider investing in an effective furniture cleaner such as Washbomb.
Budget:
Set a budget for your outdoor furniture project before you start shopping. Prices can vary significantly depending on the materials, craftsmanship, and brand. Determine how much you are willing to spend and prioritise quality and durability over immediate cost savings. Outdoor furniture is an investment that should provide long-term enjoyment and withstand years of use.
Types and Styles of Outdoor Furniture:
- Dining Sets: Perfect for outdoor meals and gatherings, dining sets typically include a table and chairs. They come in various materials like wood, metal, or synthetic wicker. Styles range from classic and traditional to modern and sleek, offering options for every aesthetic preference.
- Lounge and Seating Sets: Lounge sets are designed for relaxation and comfort. They often feature sofas, lounge chairs, ottomans, and coffee tables. Look for cushioned seating with weather-resistant fabrics for added comfort and durability. Lounge sets are available in a wide range of styles, from cosy and casual to elegant and contemporary.
- Adirondack Chairs: Adirondack chairs are classic, wide-armed chairs with a slanted back and seat. They are often made of wood and provide a rustic and charming look. Adirondack chairs are perfect for creating a laid-back and inviting atmosphere on your deck.
- Hammocks and Hanging Chairs: Ideal for those seeking a tranquil outdoor retreat, hammocks and hanging chairs offer a unique lounging experience. Available in various materials such as fabric, rope, or rattan, they can be suspended from sturdy trees or freestanding frames to provide a cosy spot for relaxation and daydreaming.
- Benches and Gliders: Benches and gliders are versatile seating options for decks. They can provide additional seating along the edges of your decking or as standalone pieces. Look for benches with comfortable cushions or opt for gliders that provide a soothing back-and-forth motion.
- Bar Sets and Stools: Perfect for entertaining guests, bar sets and stools create a casual and social atmosphere. They often feature tall tables and matching stools, creating an outdoor bar-like experience. Bar sets come in various materials, including metal and wicker, and offer a stylish and contemporary look.
- Daybeds and Chaise Lounges: For those seeking ultimate relaxation and luxury, daybeds and chaise lounges are the perfect options. These oversized, cushioned loungers provide a comfortable space for sunbathing or enjoying a leisurely afternoon nap. Look for adjustable backrests and weather-resistant materials for added convenience.
- Outdoor Storage Solutions: Outdoor storage solutions such as deck boxes or storage benches are functional additions to keep your outdoor space organised. They provide ample storage space for cushions, pillows, and other outdoor accessories while doubling as extra seating options.
Choosing outdoor furniture for your decking involves careful consideration of your space, purpose, durability, comfort, style, maintenance, and budget. By evaluating these factors and understanding your needs, you can create an inviting and functional outdoor area that reflects your personal style and enhances your overall living space. So, take your time, explore different options, and invest in high-quality outdoor furniture that will provide you with years of comfort and enjoyment on your deck. And if you’re a prospective deck owner, give us a call or send a message to find out more about our decking range.
FAQs
Q: What factors should I consider when choosing outdoor furniture for my deck?
A: When choosing outdoor furniture for your deck, consider factors such as the available space, intended purpose, durability, comfort, style and aesthetics, maintenance requirements, budget, and the types and styles of outdoor furniture available.
Q: How do I assess the space on my deck to determine the right furniture size?
A: To assess the space on your deck, consider the size, shape, and layout. Take measurements and note any features that may affect furniture placement, such as railings, stairs, or pillars. This assessment will help determine the appropriate size and quantity of furniture pieces that can comfortably fit on your deck.
Q: What are the essential steps to define the purpose of my outdoor space?
A: Consider how you intend to use your outdoor space. Determine if you want a dining area, a lounging area, or a combination of both. Understanding the primary purpose of your deck will guide your furniture choices.
Q: Which materials are durable and suitable for outdoor furniture?
A: Materials such as teak, wrought iron, aluminum, and synthetic wicker are popular choices for outdoor furniture due to their resistance to the elements. These materials can withstand sunlight, rain, and temperature fluctuations.
Q: How can I ensure comfort in my outdoor seating options?
A: Select seating options with comfortable cushions or padding and ergonomic designs. It’s recommended to test the furniture in person, if possible, to ensure it offers adequate support and relaxation. Consider furniture with built-in shade options like umbrellas or retractable canopies to protect against intense sunlight.
Q: What should I consider regarding the style and aesthetics of the outdoor furniture?
A: Your outdoor furniture should harmonise with the overall style and theme of your home and garden. Consider the color palette of your decking, existing outdoor elements, and surrounding flora to choose furniture that complements the aesthetics of your outdoor space.
Q: What maintenance and storage requirements should I keep in mind?
A: While outdoor furniture is designed to withstand the elements, some materials require more maintenance than others. Consider your willingness and ability to maintain the furniture regularly. Think about storage options during the off-season and choose furniture that is easy to stack, fold, or disassemble for convenient storage.
Q: How can I set a budget for my outdoor furniture project?
A: Before you start shopping, set a budget for your outdoor furniture project. Prices can vary significantly depending on materials, craftsmanship, and brand. Determine how much you are willing to spend and prioritise quality and durability over immediate cost savings.
Q: What are the different types and styles of outdoor furniture available?
A: Outdoor furniture comes in various types and styles. Some common options include dining sets, lounge and seating sets, Adirondack chairs, hammocks and hanging chairs, benches and gliders, bar sets and stools, daybeds and chaise lounges, and outdoor storage solutions.
Q: What features should I look for in dining sets for outdoor meals and gatherings?
A: In dining sets, look for a sturdy table and chairs that can withstand outdoor conditions. Consider materials like wood, metal, or synthetic wicker. Choose a style that complements your deck’s aesthetics and provides ample seating for your needs.
Q: How can lounge and seating sets enhance the relaxation and comfort of my deck?
A: Lounge and seating sets often feature sofas, lounge chairs, ottomans, and coffee tables. Look for cushioned seating with weather-resistant fabrics for added comfort and durability. Choose a style that creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere on your deck.
Q: What is unique about Adirondack chairs, and how do they contribute to the deck’s atmosphere?
A: Adirondack chairs are classic, wide-armed chairs with a slanted back and seat. They are often made of wood and provide a rustic and charming look. Adirondack chairs contribute to a laid-back and inviting atmosphere on your deck, perfect for relaxation.
Q: What are the benefits and materials available for hammocks and hanging chairs?
A: Hammocks and hanging chairs offer a unique lounging experience. They are available in various materials such as fabric, rope, or rattan. These can be suspended from sturdy trees or freestanding frames, providing a cosy spot for relaxation and daydreaming.
Q: How can benches and gliders be utilised for additional seating options on the deck?
A: Benches and gliders are versatile seating options. They can provide additional seating along the edges of your decking or as standalone pieces. Look for benches with comfortable cushions or opt for gliders that provide a soothing back-and-forth motion.
Q: What are bar sets and stools, and how can they create a social atmosphere?
A: Bar sets and stools are perfect for entertaining guests and creating a casual and social atmosphere. They often feature tall tables and matching stools, resembling an outdoor bar. Bar sets come in various materials like metal and wicker, offering a stylish and contemporary look.
Q: What features should I consider in daybeds and chaise lounges for ultimate relaxation?
A: Daybeds and chaise lounges provide a comfortable space for sunbathing or enjoying a leisurely afternoon nap. Look for adjustable backrests and weather-resistant materials for added convenience. These oversised loungers offer the ultimate relaxation and luxury on your deck.
Q: What outdoor storage solutions are available for keeping my deck organised?
A: Outdoor storage solutions such as deck boxes or storage benches are functional additions to keep your outdoor space organised. They provide ample storage space for cushions, pillows, and other outdoor accessories while doubling as extra seating options.