Furniture refers to items that are necessary, useful, or desired, such as movable objects used to fill a home, office, and so on. Furniture is undeniably a crucial and prioritized aspect of life.
Furniture, or household furniture, is a vital element that not only serves as tools for daily activities but also contributes to creating an ambiance and aesthetic in a space. Selecting good furniture is a challenging task due to the numerous options available on the market with diverse designs, materials, and prices. So, what defines good furniture? A detailed discussion of the characteristics and criteria necessary to determine whether a piece of furniture can be classified as good furniture will cover aspects of material quality, design and aesthetics, functionality, comfort, durability, as well as environmental friendliness and price.
In general, furniture has a geometric shape, which means there are many sharp corners that can pose a danger to people. Incidents like these necessitate standards to ensure that the furniture-making process is free from errors.
Based on its use, furniture is categorized into two types: indoor furniture, used inside, and outdoor furniture, used outside. Both types have various models tailored to their function, along with a choice of colors that can be customized to individual preferences. So, what sets the two apart? Let’s explore the distinctions between indoor and outdoor furniture.
Indoor Furniture
In terms of placement, indoor furniture can be utilized to furnish the bedroom, living room, kitchen, family room, and other indoor spaces. Therefore, indoor furniture can take the form of beds, kitchen cabinets, dining tables, guest chairs, sofas, wardrobes, and other items.
Due to its indoor usage, the choice of materials for indoor furniture is more flexible. It can be crafted from materials such as mahogany, teak, and other woods, or even a combination of plywood or MDF. The materials used for indoor furniture are more flexible since they are not constantly exposed to heat and rain.
Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture is typically placed in outdoor areas like terraces and gardens, where it will be subjected to heat, rain, and varying weather conditions. Consequently, the materials used must be strong and weather-resistant. The wood options are more limited, such as teak wood combined with iron or stainless steel, to ensure the furniture’s durability. Apart from teak wood, durable plastic materials and stainless steel are also suitable choices to prolong the furniture’s lifespan.
The types of materials used in outdoor and indoor furniture are not vastly different, but the quality differs. The use of indoor and outdoor furniture must be precise to anticipate damage and prevent accidents or errors caused by inappropriate furniture conditions. Outdoor furniture, particularly those in direct contact with the ground, is more susceptible to damage such as decay, weathering, cracking, or changes in shape.
The criteria for furniture to be suitable for use and safe from hazards are as follows:
- Compliance with national/international standards
Office furniture manufacturers must consider this before producing or marketing their products. Products must obtain permits or certifications from the relevant standards in a country.
- Family-friendly product
This is particularly crucial to ensure that children can use the furniture without encountering accidents, injuries, or other hazards. Furniture safety is especially important for families with young children to keep them safe while playing at home.
- Standards for permissible materials
The materials used in furniture production need to be carefully considered. The materials must be tested for strength, resistance to UV radiation, resistance to scratching, recyclability, and free from CFC (Chlorofluorocarbon). Proper finishing of the materials is also essential.
- If a piece of furniture lacks ergonomic standards, it cannot be considered furniture. Ergonomics must be taken into account to ensure universal design and usability for everyone.
- Furniture needs to undergo safety testing before mass production to prevent accidents and hazards.
- The quality of furniture is largely determined by the materials used. Good materials ensure durability, an appealing appearance, and optimal function.
- The design and aesthetics of furniture play a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere and character of a room. Attractive and functional design is essential for good furniture, especially for items like sofas or cabinets.
- Good furniture must efficiently and effectively fulfill its primary function. Additional features that enhance usability are also valuable.
- Comfort is a crucial aspect, particularly for items like sofas, chairs, and beds. Without comfort, furniture is merely decorative and unlikely to be used frequently.
- Quality furniture should be durable to ensure long-term use without significant damage. Durability depends on the materials used.
- Choosing environmentally friendly furniture has become increasingly important due to growing environmental awareness. Environmentally friendly materials are popular in the market amid concerns about global warming.
- Price is an important factor in furniture selection. However, high price does not always guarantee good quality, and low price does not necessarily mean poor quality.
Why is outdoor furniture necessary?
Outdoor furniture enhances outdoor living spaces, providing a comfortable environment for relaxation, dining, socializing, and enjoying nature.
What are the most popular types of outdoor furniture?
Outdoor decorating has become a major focus of modern homes, with a diverse range of outdoor furniture adding unmatched comfort to many homes and businesses. Certain types of furniture are gaining popularity due to their ability to combine comfort with functionality, flexibility, and style in outdoor spaces.
The popularity of these furniture pieces is not solely determined by their cost, but also by their ability to offer comfort and style in outdoor settings. This guide will provide insight into the trending and popular outdoor furniture.
Most Popular Outdoor Furniture: Types and Features
Trending outdoor furniture comes in various shapes and designs, making them stand out and appealing to many people. Let’s explore what sets them apart and makes them popular among outdoor furniture enthusiasts.
- Lounge Chairs
These trendy outdoor furniture pieces add style and elegance to patios. Available in various styles and designs, lounge chairs are designed for relaxation and are often paired with ottomans. They are perfect for comfortable seating during leisure time in your outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings or the comfort of your outdoor space.
The term “lounge chair” encompasses a variety of furniture pieces designed for relaxation. Some lounge chairs have an armless design, allowing you to maintain a semi-reclining position with support for your back and legs, providing comfort for one person.
Another type of furniture is lounge chairs that can accommodate more than one person in a sitting position and allow you to recline while leaning your back against the side or backrest. Some designs have the sides and backrest in one piece, meaning you can be quite comfortable while sitting or lying down.
Armchairs with tall backrests and armrests are another type of furniture designed for outdoor comfort. Many chairs often come with cushioned backrests and armrests for complete body comfort. Some modern designs are adaptable and allow you to switch between resting your feet on the floor and propping them up with a footrest.
Loungers for poolside use often come in a range of designs and material combinations, from fabric to wood and rattan. With a lounger, you have a place to relax and laze around outdoors. Loungers are popular in many outdoor spaces because they are the perfect place to spend time with friends and loved ones.
- Adirondack Chairs
Adirondack chairs have become increasingly popular over the years and have been used outdoors since the 1900s. Originally designed as a wooden piece of furniture with a slatted back, wide armrests, and a wide seating surface that slopes backward, more modern designs have emerged using other accoutrements similar as teak, high- viscosity polyethylene( HDPE) timber, and aluminum.
These chairs offer great versatility as they can be used as recliners, poolside furniture, patio furniture, or the perfect pair of bistro chairs. The sloping outer edges of the chair often have curved edges, which provide support for the knees. Additionally, the sloping backrest and armrests each provide ergonomic support for the back and give you enough room to place items such as cups or prop your hands freely.
The Adirondack chair has a sturdy and durable build that can sit firmly on any patio, making it an essential and popular piece of furniture that has graced patios around the world for years. Forward-thinking designers have come up with a variety of furniture pieces inspired by the Adirondack chair design.
- Dining Sets
Dining outdoors adds color and spice to summer days. Furniture makes it possible to spend time together and have fun with loved ones. Outdoor entertaining and fun times with loved ones would not be complete without an outdoor dining table set. Depending on how many people will be using the dining table set, you can have a set that consists of two to eight or more chairs. Dining sets are popular for their versatility for outdoor dining.
Conversation, wine, and dining at a dining table with a fire pit add a unique experience to your outdoor living space. An outdoor dining table set is a versatile piece of furniture that is useful throughout the seasons, allowing you to spontaneously create memorable moments with loved ones. It is perfect if you have an outdoor kitchen where you can cook while chatting with your family; The dining table is where it all happens.
Whether it’s a bistro dining table, a large fire place table, or a dining table with benches, this piece of furniture is popular on many homes’ patios. If you’re looking for a way to enhance your outdoor experience, introduce a dining table set that fits your needs into your space and transform your patio into the perfect outdoor getaway you’ve always dreamed of.
- Sofa and table sets
Comfort is key when spending time outdoors; outdoor sofa sets add luxury and style to your patio. These sofa sets come in a variety of configurations that can be used for a variety of outdoor space sizes. If you need something small enough for two, a loveseat is designed to sit elegantly on your patio. With enough space, you can go for a sofa set that can comfortably seat three or more people.
Sofa sets that are popular include modular sofas, single sofas, and sectional sofa sets. These sets can be paired with a fire place, coffee table, or side bench for placing belongings, drinks, or food. Your sofa set offers a comfortable place for relaxing alone, a fun time with friends and family, and a haven for appreciating nature. There are various designs available, ranging from U-shaped to L-shaped or even circular designs, making it easy to find the shape that best suits your patio design and style.
It’s important to note that outdoor sofas differ from indoor sofa sets, although the designs may be similar. Outdoor sofa sets are designed with materials that make them highly weatherproof and suitable for outdoor use. You will find various designs in wicker or rattan, waterproof cushions, teak wood designs, aluminum, or galvanized steel. You can choose any of these, depending on the theme you are using for your outdoor decor.
- Accessories for outdoor furniture
In addition to functional furniture, outdoor accessories are also popular for beautifying and adding ambiance to your space. Without accessories, your outdoor seating may look unattractive and uninviting. Like any indoor space, your outdoor space needs accessories to create the appealing look you desire.
When considering accessories, think about potted plants, vases, rugs, outdoor houseplants, fireplaces, wall planters, and accent pieces. All of these help maintain the theme of your outdoor decor and add balance and contrast to your space.
Things to keep in mind when choosing durable outdoor furniture
When it comes to furniture for your outdoor space, durability is crucial. You want furniture that can withstand all the weather conditions in your area year-round, while still looking beautiful and providing the comfort of being indoors. Here’s your guide to the most durable types of outdoor furniture. We’ll cover the different materials used for outdoor furniture, how to choose sustainable furniture that’s right for your climate, and highlight some popular patio furniture options for outdoor dining and lounging.
What makes outdoor furniture durable?
Outdoor furniture is meant to be outside, exposed to the elements. To keep your outdoor living space looking fresh, comfortable, and inviting all year long, it needs to be made from highly durable materials and have designs that can withstand the elements.
Weather-resistant materials
Durable outdoor furniture materials, such as teak, recycled plastic, concrete, aluminum, and solution-dyed acrylic outdoor fabrics, are tough and have natural oils or other properties that repel water, resist mold and mildew, and can withstand prolonged exposure to UV rays. Both synthetic and natural materials produce some of the best outdoor furniture materials that are water resistant, easy to clean, high quality, and sustainable with a long lifespan.
Weather-resistant design
Weather-resistant design helps prevent damage from the elements. A sloped or slatted design can support water flow so that rainwater can run off rather than pool and sit on the surface. All screws, bolts, and fasteners should be rust-resistant and able to withstand changes in temperature and humidity levels. The assembly should also be sturdy and able to withstand high winds or other external forces. Outdoor furniture features marine-grade hardware that is made to withstand exposure to the open ocean, and strong joints that ensure the structure is secure in all weather conditions.
A variety of outdoor furniture materials
Plastic furniture
Plastic can be a very durable, sturdy, and easy-care material for outdoor furniture. Synthetic materials, such as High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), are designed to be weather-resistant. They are lightweight and will not fade, crack, or break when exposed to sunlight or rain. HDPE is extremely tough. They can withstand the wear and tear of regular use without breaking or cracking over time. With proper care, outdoor furniture made from HDPE can last for decades.
Maintenance
To keep plastic furniture strong, you can easily wash this material with a hose or a wet cloth. Regularly clean plastic furniture with mild soap and water. For a more thorough cleaning, a pressure washer can be used, but ensure it is set to a low pressure to avoid surface damage. It’s essential to note that plastic furniture is sensitive to sunlight and heat, so try to keep it away from direct sunlight and higher temperatures to prevent warping or discoloration. If you need to place your furniture in a sunny area, consider using a UV-resistant coating or cover for extra protection.
Best plastic furniture choices
POLYWOOD plastic is sustainable, comfortable, and very durable. It is made from ocean and landfill-safe HDPE plastic, is waterproof, fade-resistant, and requires no maintenance. The Neighbor Adirondack low chair is constructed from recycled POLYWOOD plastic and is the perfect piece for relaxation and comfort.
Wood Furniture
Wood possesses natural beauty and strength, making it the most long-lasting outdoor furniture. However, not all types of wood are suitable for outdoor furniture. Natural hardwoods like teak, ipe, and acacia have natural weather-resistant properties, allowing them to withstand various weather conditions. Softer woods like pine, cedar, and untreated fir have poor resistance to rot and weather, making them less likely to produce durable outdoor furniture.
Teak is a preferred wood for outdoor furniture. Solid teak contains natural oils that repel water, resist rot, protect the wood from UV rays, and repel pests. Teak also possesses a natural beauty that is ideal for modern and contemporary outdoor living designs. Beginning with a warm golden hue and eventually changing to a beautiful silvery-gray patina, teak offers the best of both worlds in terms of durability and beauty.
Care
Maintaining teak wood throughout the seasons is simple. Teak furniture can be cleaned as required with a mild soap and water solution and a soft-bristled sponge or brush. The best way to maintain the durability of your teak furniture is to cover it with a protective cover during extreme weather conditions. This provides the teak wood with the additional protection it needs to resist damage.
Best Wood Furniture Options
Many furniture stores offer a wide variety of authentic teak furniture suitable for any climate or exposure to the elements in any region of the world. From teak low chairs and teak outdoor sofas to teak outdoor coffee tables and dining tables with weather-resistant slats designed to support water flow, Neighbor teak furniture can withstand high winds, UV rays, saltwater, and rain. The teak seating collection is paired with all-weather cushion covers. The cushion covers are dyed with a solution that repels water, mold, and mildew growth, won’t fade in the sun, and maintain their vibrant color year-round.
Metal Furniture
Like other woods, some metals are suitable for outdoor furniture, while others lack the weather-resistant properties needed for exposure to the elements. Iron and other metals containing iron are naturally strong but can rust and corrode, making them unsuitable for durable outdoor furniture. Wrought iron and cast iron furniture are also high-maintenance, dense, and heavy, and not ideal for long-term outdoor use. On the other hand, aluminum and some types of stainless steel with low chromium content will not rust or corrode outdoors and can be exposed to all types of weather (including the ocean) without damage. Aluminum and stainless steel are both very durable outdoor furniture materials.
Metal outdoor furniture maintenance
Weather-resistant metal is easy to care for with a wipe down and a mild soap and water solution. Cleaning metal furniture as needed and once or twice a year will extend its life and help maintain a clean, sleek look. While stainless steel is a heavier material that won’t blow over in the wind, aluminum furniture is lightweight and should be secured during high winds. If you live in an area with consistently high winds that hit your balcony or backyard, look for aluminum furniture made from reinforced steel.
Optimal metal furniture selections
Seating made from aluminum or stainless steel may feel chilly in winter, as metal conducts heat well. If you want to create a warm, cozy outdoor space, metal furniture may not be the best choice. Some outdoor furniture made of aluminum is intended for use with soft cushions to enhance comfort. Stainless steel is an excellent and highly durable material for countertops and kitchen surfaces in outdoor kitchens or dining areas. Furniture with stainless steel hardware will not rust, corrode, or deteriorate in extreme weather or with regular use.
Furniture made of Wicker
Wicker is a popular option for outdoor furniture due to its lightweight nature, making it easy to move and rearrange. It is also quite reasonably priced and easily accessible. Although wicker has its advantages, it is not the most long-lasting material. Wicker is constructed from natural materials such as willow, rattan, and bamboo, but it can also be made from synthetic material known as resin wicker. Natural wicker is not weatherproof, prone to rotting and deterioration over time, and can wear out quickly from high traffic or wear and tear. Conversely, artificial resin wicker crafted from HDPE can withstand extreme conditions and retain its durability.
Maintaining Wicker Furniture
It is best to keep natural wicker furniture indoors. Maintaining synthetic wicker furniture constructed from HDPE or other top-notch synthetic materials involves using a gentle soap and water solution for cleaning. It can also be vacuumed to remove dirt from the wicker. Wicker furniture is susceptible to cracking and fading over time and should be sealed and stored in a dry place if not in use for extended periods.
Top rattan furniture choices
Resin wicker is often used to create chairs, tables, and accent pieces, available in various colors. When seeking the most durable outdoor furniture material for your space, there are other materials, such as wood and recycled plastic, that outperform wicker in terms of performance, maintenance, and design.
Wicker furniture demands more care and maintenance to prevent weather damage. Moreover, it is not as adaptable in terms of design as other materials. Wicker typically features a traditional style that may contrast with more modern, minimalist furniture.
Crucial factors for outdoor dining
Several factors should be taken into account when selecting the best furniture material for your outdoor dining area. Weather resistance, weight, comfort, maintenance, and appearance are all essential considerations when creating an inviting outdoor dining space that mirrors your indoor dining area.
Resistance to Weather
Outdoor dining tables, chairs, and cushions should be designed with the elements in mind. Ideally, you would not want to store your dining set indoors when it rains or when the wind picks up. Metals like iron that rust and corrode in wet conditions will not withstand numerous rainy seasons without discoloring and deteriorating. Non-water-resistant woods will rot rapidly, rendering your outdoor dining table unusable. In terms of weather resistance, teak and powder-coated aluminum are the best options in any climate. Teak is water-resistant and rot-resistant, while powder-coated aluminum is easy to clean and weather-resistant.
Weight
Lightweight dining sets can be blown away. Lighter materials like recycled plastic can be blown away in high winds, potentially causing damage to nearby homes or people. Solid, heavy metal dining furniture will not be affected by strong winds, but it can be challenging to move quickly. Whether you are rearranging your dining set, adding more seating for guests, or adjusting your entire dining set to accommodate a new patio layout, heavy furniture (such as metal) may not be ideal. When it comes to being heavy enough to withstand well but easy enough to move, reinforced wood and aluminum are the best choices.
Comfort
Your dining table and chairs should be comfortable enough to accommodate your guests during dinner and for post-dinner conversations or drinks. You want to utilize your dining area as much as possible, rather than being forced back inside when your guests begin to experience discomfort. When it comes to comfort, the most crucial aspect is to look for quality designs and materials such as quick-drying foam padding.
Maintenance
Keeping your outdoor dining set clean should be a relatively fast and simple task. The materials used in sturdy dining tables and chairs should repel spills and stains, rather than absorbing substances or leaving water marks. You don’t want to use your outdoor dining area if it needs a thorough cleaning after every meal or event. Tough outdoor dining furniture can be washed with a basic soap and water mixture that won’t cause the material to rust, corrode, or leave marks. Aluminum and recycled HDPE plastic are the easiest outdoor dining materials to maintain.
Appearance
Outdoor dining sets serve a practical purpose, but they also serve an aesthetic purpose. Ideally, your outdoor dining area will mirror your indoor dining area in terms of style and design. Your dining area can be comfortable and durable with an attractive, beautiful design. Modern outdoor furniture is adaptable and can complement almost any style. Choose a modern outdoor dining set that reflects your personal style and is easy to rearrange or reposition to accommodate changes in patio layout or changing design preferences. In terms of design, style, and overall look, wood brings warmth to your backyard while enhancing your outdoor living space with indoor-level sophistication.
Best Outdoor Chair Recommendations You Can Use
The perfect outdoor chair not only serves as a regular sitting chair, but can also be used as a recliner and a lounge chair. As the name suggests, this type of chair is suitable for outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, or simply relaxing while hiking.
However, the numerous options of outdoor lounge chairs available can certainly make choosing one that is comfortable and does not cause body aches quite confusing.
Recommendations for the Best Types of Outdoor Chairs
To ensure you make the right choice, consider some of the descriptions of the best and ideal outdoor chairs below.
- Director’s Chair
If you are buying an outdoor chair for tasks that require long periods of sitting, then this director’s chair might be the right choice. The design of the director’s chair includes a back and armrests, so you don’t have to worry about your body getting sore quickly. As the name suggests, this type of chair is typically used by directors during the filming process.
- Outdoor Chair with Tall Backrest
This type of chair is suitable for relaxation. It has a tall backrest, allowing you to rest your head for a moment while enjoying the view.
- Aesthetic Outdoor Chair for the Patio
This outdoor chair has a compact design with a comfortable backrest, making it suitable for relaxation on your house’s patio. Usually, this chair also comes with a small patio table set that serves as a base for placing afternoon tea.
- Compact Chair
This outdoor chair is easy to transport as the design is compact and can be folded, saving storage space. Additionally, this chair is suitable for use as a seat when fishing or hiking.
- Reclining Chair
With an outdoor recliner chair, you can stretch out your legs while leaning back, allowing you to relax and lounge comfortably. However, ensure the chair’s height aligns with the table you usually use so you can relax.
- Outdoor Chair with Umbrella
The next ideal type of outdoor chair comes complete with a detachable umbrella. You can use this chair to relax in the park, beach, or pool area, providing protection from the sun. Furthermore, you can fold it when not in use, making it easy to transport.
- Outdoor Swing Chair
As the name suggests, you can swing in this hanging outdoor chair. Its soft design and wide seat enable you to lie down and relax. You can also use this chair in the garden and backyard. Additionally, there is a canopy that can shield you from rain and sun heat.
A rug is an essential outdoor furniture item.
Place patio furniture on a rug that can withstand the weather. Recent advancements in fabric technology have led to the availability of many fast-drying outdoor rugs. Outdoor rugs are comfortable to walk on and add a luxurious feel to your patio or deck. Select colors and designs that match your other furniture and decorations to unify your outdoor area. Ensure that the rug is suitable for outdoor use before buying it.
Lastly, we suggest looking for durable furniture to make the most of your space and budget. Multi-functional furniture can eliminate the need for extra pieces and create more space for your preferred outdoor activities. For instance, an ottoman or garden bench can also serve as additional patio seating for visitors. A simple bench can be used alone or as an outdoor dining table. Opt for patio or outdoor furniture that serves a purpose to maximize the use of your outdoor space.