Patio Basics

For many of us, the outdoor living season is too short. That’s why it’s important to make the most out of the time you have available to enjoy the great outdoors—without parkas and snow boots! You can even push the boundaries of the seasons by dining and entertaining outside in early spring and late fall, by creating an outdoor living space that you truly love, and one that’s functional for a longer outdoor season. (Hello, fire tables!)

Porch, veranda, terrace, poolside, patio, deck—no matter where your outdoor space is and what you call it—there are some outdoor furnishings and accessories that you need. You can start with the basics: somewhere to sit and a place to set your plate and a cold beverage. Then take it a step further by adding some comfort items, such as an umbrella for shade. These outdoor accessories will go a long way in creating a stylish and comfortable outdoor living space.

There are many different factors that should be taken into consideration when selecting and purchasing your patio furniture and accessories. Read this buying guide to get a better feel for what’s available and what will work best for your space, even small spots. Extra points for style and staying in budget—we’ll show you how!

What to Consider Before Selecting Your Patio Furniture

As we stated, there’s lots to consider when purchasing patio furniture. Do you like traditional style furniture? Are you looking for something bold and colorful? The list continues. However, it helps to look at the most important items first. Basically, the two most important factors in determining the best furniture for your patio are:

• Size – Size is a twofold consideration. First, what is the size of your outdoor living space. Get out the tape measure, and make sure the set of your dreams is going to fit your space with plenty of wiggle room. Second, if space allows, what size furniture do you want? Are you going to be eating for two at a bistro set or another small patio set; or do you need a large patio set for outdoor entertaining?
• Purpose – The purpose of your patio space boils down to how it will be used. Many of us are limited by space. Take that into mind when you are considering how to best use your space. If you have to choose between dining and lounging, which is more important to you? If you have plenty of room, do you have to accommodate children or pets? How does that affect your set-up and the items that you’ll need?

After you’ve put some thought into your outdoor living space, and visualized (better yet, measured) how big it is and how it will be used, you’re ready to move on. Here are some ways to outfit your porch, patio or poolside, and make it the outdoor space you’ve dreamed of having—and lounging in!

Make the Most of Your Patio Space

Beautiful days may be in short supply, especially if you live in the Midwest, so you want to make the most of the season! With the right small patio furniture and layout, you can do a lot of living in a small outdoor space. Even if you have a super-sized patio, you don’t want to waste an inch of it. Make sure to plan your layout for better function, enjoyment and efficient use of your space, so you can go ahead and invite the neighbors over to enjoy the cookout. After all, the good smells have been drifting their way all afternoon. It’s only neighborly to share and show off your space!

Here are pointers for getting the max entertainment and relaxation out of even minimal spaces—all while sticking to your budget:

• Define your areas. Is your porch or patio big enough for a dining set and some outdoor deep seating? If so, you’ll want to define the distinct areas of your outdoor space. Dining and lounging areas can be right next to each other. However, they should each have a distinct look to keep the patio from looking messy and cluttered. Want an easy fix? Try using outdoor rugs to visually separate the spaces.
• Don’t block the flow. You should be able to walk easily from the house to the patio, between and around the defined areas mentioned above. Of course, you’ll also want enough room around your patio set to get out and maneuver around other guests to help yourself to a second helping or a drink refill.
• Don’t block the view. One of the great advantages of eating and otherwise enjoying outside space is the view—whether you live by a lake or just want to take in the foliage. Make sure you get furniture that works with the height of your space. For instance, balcony height patio sets and chairs are designed so that you can easily look over the railing of your deck.
• Don’t blow your budget. While it may be tempting to save some money and order low-cost patio season, it’s important to think long term. You may end up paying more in the long run for low-quality patio furniture, since you’ll have to replace it every few seasons. Instead, you should invest in quality patio furniture that will last. On a shoe string budget? You can stretch your dollar and get quality, yet affordable patio furniture by shopping patio furniture sales or even clearance patio furniture.

Once you’ve determined the size and layout of your patio or other outdoor space, get to the furniture, starting with the biggest items first. You can choose a standard 3-piece patio set or 5-piece patio set for your small patio. If you have enough room and guests, a 7-piece patio dining set may be just the ticket.

When it comes to deep seating, choose pieces that are both comfortable and stylish. If your space is limited, a couple of wicker lounge chairs can be placed on either side of a wicker end table for a relaxing space to chat and sip on an ice-cold lemonade. If space allows, a loveseat and/or sofa make a cozy and stylish spot to entertain guests or lounge with your morning coffee and a favorite book.

Patio Furniture Materials

There are many styles of patio furniture, as well as different price points and obvious variances in quality. Another way to group patio furniture is by the material. There are four basic types of patio furniture, and the different materials offer distinct looks and advantages, best serving different climates, uses and budgets. Here is a breakdown of the main types of patio furniture to help you decide what’s best for your space.

• Wood – If you don’t think wood furniture can be used outdoors, think again! There are many types of wood and treatments that can be used to create durable patio and deck furniture. Pine and cedar are soft woods that are light in color and turn silvery gray as they age, unless you seal or paint them. Teak and jarrah are the priciest, but also the most durable, lasting for 50 years or more. Natural wood furniture doesn’t hold up well outdoors, though it may last longer under a covered patio.
• Metal – Metal patio furniture is the most popular type of patio furniture due to its durability, versatility and comfort. Wrought iron and aluminum are the two main types of metal outdoor furniture. Extruded aluminum is lightweight and inexpensive, making it a great and cost-effective choice for patio sets and more. Cast aluminum is slightly heavier and pricier. It may be worth the investment for patio furniture that you know will be exposed to elements, such as heavy winds. Both are powder coated, and hold up well.
• Wicker – A popular style due to its casual and rustic aesthetic, you can find a wide range of wicker furniture from end tables to deep seating including outdoor chairs, loveseats and sofas. Wicker comes in two forms: regular and all-weather. As its name implies, all-weather wicker can be used outdoors. Look for durable options, such as a high grade, poly-resin wicker weave.
• Plastic or resin – You can find a variety of other plastic, or resin, outdoor furniture. Plastic furniture is inexpensive, yet durable and easy to maintain.

Patio Accessories

Once your basic patio furniture is in place, you can take your space to the next level with a few extra touches. Bring on the patio accessories! Bonus: many of these “extras” (like rugs) will also allow you to add a personalized style to your patio space, setting it apart from all the patios down your block.

• Heat lamps – you can get the most out of the outdoor living season by adding a heat lamp. These extend your enjoyment of a lovely patio into the cooler months. They are even nice for the summer months, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors well into the cool evenings—at least until the drinks and snacks run out!
• Fire tables – for extra ambiance and the perfect setting to enjoy a cozy evening outdoors, consider a fire table. These tables are easy to use and make clean up a breeze compared to traditional fire pits.
• Occasional tables – choose from various occasional tables, including side tables, end tables, and cocktail tables, to complete your seating area and make your space more functional.
• Plants – don’t forget to make your outdoor space look, well, outdoorsy. Plants can be placed strategically around a patio, on tables, shelves or in decorative hanging arrangements.
• Rugs – outdoor rugs are available in any number of fibers and fabrics. Not only can they add comfort to your outdoor space, but they give you a chance to add color and texture of your choosing. Plus, rugs are a great choice for defining spaces. Try placing one under your patio set for a finishing touch to your al fresco eating area.
• Lights – you can add a festive touch when you hang paper lanterns or strings along the ceiling. Solar lights placed around the perimeter of your patio will soak up the sun, then provide lovely ambience in the evenings.

It’s that simple! Start by planning your space taking into consideration how and who it will be used by; choose your outdoor patio furniture including a patio set for dining and comfortable seating options; and finish by accessorizing. You now have a perfect patio set just wanting for the burgers, iced tea and conversation. Relax, and enjoy!