Begin With The End In Mind
When designing your outdoor living area, remember that the materials you choose will create the overall style and feel. Make choices that will become part of who you are, and how you want people to feel when they walk into your back yard. You’ll want to make sure that it is welcoming, invokes warmth, and is colorful.
Go Tropical On Your Patio Project!
Outfitting your patio space with a beautiful tropical feel can be as simple as a few plants and tropical furniture. Finished or unfinished hardwoods add island luster to your outdoor space. Tiki torches are an inexpensive way to create a mood and keep some of those flying insects away at the same time.
For a Contemporary Outdoor Feel
You can choose clean and sleek lines and steel or aluminum furniture and obtain a gorgeous contemporary look to your yard. Look for durability in your furniture and accessories for holding up against accidents and abuse as well as inclement weather. Cushions that can be tossed into the washer are a great time-saver. And don’t forget that chaise lounge!
Traditional Outdoor Furniture Styles Vary Greatly
Traditional styles can be from all over the world. Earth tone colored chair cushions surrounding a fire pit might be a great start for your traditionally styled backyard area.
A Few Words On Wicker Furniture
Wicker is of course, a lightweight and weather resistant material. However, constant exposure can weaken and even destroy an otherwise beautiful piece of furniture. Don’t forget that you can paint wicker, and a good sealer on bare wicker before leaving it to the elements won’t hurt a thing.
A stylish bistro set can also double as a morning coffee and brunch oasis. A small picnic style table might be right for you, but if you love eating outdoors, consider a full dining patio set. It all depends on the atmosphere you want to create for yourself and your family. Did you know that a round table can encourage people to interact more? By comparison, rectangle tables offer more flexibility and versatility. I know, it may sound strange, but it’s true!
Take Good Care Of Your Investment
Be sure you understand your home’s weather patterns and plan accordingly. Once you get your basic plan underway, the ideas will begin to flow. Start by planning for functionality, then go for style. There are plenty of options available for outdoor furniture, so take your time at the beginning, while you’re creating your new space.
And just like you, your furniture needs protection from the sun, wind, rain and cold. For cushions, choosing material that breathes and is filled with polyester is probably your best choice. Look for outdoor fabrics that can handle the harsh elements and will resist fading. Regular cleaning is also very important. At the minimum, dust everything off very thoroughly. Once mildew, rust or insects take hold of your furniture, it can become very difficult to remedy. Stay on top of it and you’ll enjoy it for years.
Clean your furniture regularly and it will last longer. Dirt and grime can wear it out much faster than a piece that gets a fresh regular cleaning. Use a thick nylon brush and some soapy water to deep clean wicker, followed by a rinse using a garden hose. Setting it in the sun to dry will prevent mold and mildew from forming, but wicker should not be displayed in direct sun light.
Touch up metal furniture with matching enamel spray paint before the exposed metal turns to rust.
Those big umbrellas protect you and your furniture from the harsh rays of the sun. There are so many styles to choose from, I won’t even pretend to offer any suggestions. Go with your own style, and know that you are doing a lot for the longevity of your outdoor furniture. Awnings are another option if your home can accommodate one.
If you choose a less resilient style, you might opt to store your furniture when you’re not using it. Folding chairs are a great option for reducing space and come in many styles.
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