How to Choose Outdoor Furniture for Your New Garden
Getting outdoor furniture is a great way to improve your garden and make it the perfect place to relax, but it's important to choose the right pieces. This guide explains three important things to consider when choosing garden furniture.
Figure Out What Pieces of Furniture You Want
The first thing you should do is figure out what type of furniture you want. This depends on your family and how you will be using your garden. For example, if you want to eat outdoors a lot, it might be a good idea to get a large, solid table with comfortable dining chairs. However, if you only envision eating outside occasionally, you can save space with a small, elegant patio table. You could create a relaxing, informal vibe with rattan sofas and chairs, or opt for a swinging bench to create the perfect reading nook. Make a list of what you want before browsing.
Work With the Size and Shape of Your Garden
You should also think about the size and shape of your garden before buying furniture. If you have a small garden, a big rectangular table with six chairs might make it feel very full, without much space to garden, relax, and play. You should also look at the shape, and where the sun hits your garden during the day. For example, if you want to put in a bench to relax in the sun, make sure the potential spot isn't shaded and actually gets sun for a lot of the day. For a small garden, find nooks where furniture could go without making your garden feel smaller.
Think About Your Garden's Style
Finally, it's important to think about your garden's style, and the vibe you want it to have. The Royal Horticultural Society explains a few different garden styles to inspire you, including contemporary, formal, and Mediterranean gardens. You should choose furniture that fits your theme. For example, furniture with sleek lines and simple wood and metal construction is perfectly suited to a contemporary garden. However, if you're going for a formal garden, you might want to go for something more old-fashioned and ornate. Try to envision any piece you're considering in your garden, and see how well it fits.
By working out carefully what pieces you want, considering your garden's size and shape, and making sure your chosen pieces suit your garden's style, you can choose pieces of outdoor furniture that look great and meet your family's needs.
Visit an outdoor furniture store near you to browse your options.