The Essentials on Outdoor Furniture--How, Where, and What to Buy

 How to Buy

What you choose depends on your setting, of course, but there are also some universal rules of thumb when it comes to outfitting your outdoor space. 

Invest in a good sofa.

Haiman’s best advice? “Function first,” he says, adding: “You can always make it beautiful.” More specifically, Haiman recommends investing in a good sofa before anything else. 

Consider artificial wood.

Real wood will weather to gray unless you sand and oil it, says Freda. It also won’t last as long as an artificial wood piece.

Know your lifestyle. 

Do you have kids? Maybe don’t get white cushions or pieces with sharp metal corners. On a rooftop? Be sure to consider the wind’s ability to blow away cushions. 

Where to Buy

where to buy the best outdoor furniture

Freda and Haiman have a handful of go-to brands they turn to again and again for quality pieces. 

Both experts name Restoration Hardware as a favorite for outdoor furniture sets in a variety of styles and materials. Freda’s favorites include the Marbella collection in teak or aluminum as well as the Bahia teak and the Aegean aluminum sets. “They have a really nice white-glove service,” Freda adds. “They install and assemble the furniture for you.”

Haiman is a big fan of Fermob, a French brand that makes (among other things) lightweight, small footprint, often foldable outdoor furniture. He recommends their compact Bistro collection or the slightly larger Luxembourg line, made from aluminum and named for the Parisian park for which it was designed. 

He also likes Loll Designs, whose frequently colorful all-weather pieces are made from ultra-durable high density polyethylene (HDPE), partially from recycled materials.

For a boho Cali cool aesthetic, check out Business & Pleasure Co., which specializes in luxury beach chairs made with premium hardwood and UV-, mold-, and water-resistant umbrella canvas in an impressive selection of on-trend patterns and colors. 

For a truly traditional look, Haiman suggests Barlow Tyrie, a British company that has been designing and manufacturing outdoor teak furniture for more than a century. Their rustic teak Titan line includes wild grain patterns and knots for a rugged farmhouse aesthetic. Freda also likes Summer Classics—specifically the Havana, Catalina, and Malibu collections—for looks employing wicker, woven straps, and vintage rattan.

Finally, for a diverse array of styles at more affordable prices, try Blu Dot, West Elm, CB2, and Target.  

What to Buy

the best outdoor furniture to buy

From a French-inspired set of chairs for small spaces to an updated icon, here are five finds for the outdoor season:

If you want something right for right now (and beyond): Southport Two-Pack Patio Dining Chairs by Opalhouse

This boho chic duo combines two of the season’s most popular trends, curved silhouettes and woven elements—but still feels timeless.

Buy it: Southport Two-Pack Patio Dining Chairs by Opalhouse, $400 at Target

If you want something portable: REI Co-Op Outward Rope Chair

Made with colorful climbing-inspired rope and a lightweight steel frame, this chair folds and even has a handle for easy transport. 

 Buy it:  REI Co-Op Outward Rope Chair, from $45, West Elm

If you want comfort and style: Lollygagger Lounge Chair

This lounge chair from Loll is a contemporary take on the classic Adirondack chair, an iconic symbol of relaxation.

Buy it: Lollygagger Lounge Chair, $645 at Loll

If you love color and practicality: Hot Mesh Lounge Chair

This punched metal chair from Blue Dot—with optional ottoman—has a bold design, comes in vibrant hues (red! yellow! green!), and is also stackable. 

Buy it: Hot Mesh Lounge Chair, $316 at Blu Dot 

If your space is tres petite: Fermob Bistro Chair

A pair of these bistro chairs will fit even the tiniest of outdoor spaces—and they’re foldable, too. 

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