both with plush cocoons, and it can quickly become your backup family room in warm weather. Small spaces such as balconies and pocket gardens will invite you outside when equipped with the right patio furniture. Use the following tips to choose stylish outdoor cabinets for your yard. Thoughtful planning will help make your home your new favorite place to relax, dine and entertain.
1. List Patio Furniture Needs
Start by thinking about how you want your outdoor space to be used. For example, would you like to use it as a dining area on warm summer nights? Are you planning to host your upcoming banquet or your child's birthday party in this space? Or, do you fantasize about a quiet reading space in the outdoor room, with cozy and inviting seating in the yard?
List the activities you would like to have in the space and use this as a guide to help you determine what type of outdoor furniture you need. For example, if your 12x10 bottom yard's primary function is hosting casual evening parties, you don't need a dining table. Instead, enjoy comfortable seating, multiple side tables, and a fire hole.
2. Try Patio Seats Before You Buy
When shopping for patio sofas and benches, get a seat before you buy. Patio furniture is likely to be used a lot, especially in the warmer months, so seating comfort is essential. You and your guests will be less likely to enjoy your yard if you and your guests are furnished with uncomfortable furniture. Look for items with cozy and plush cocoon cushions on seating, or cozy metal and wood furniture with fluffy pillows for maximum comfort. Make sure all fabrics are rain-resistant to prevent fading or mold growth.
3. Go for Easy-Care Outdoor Furniture
Reserve most of your outdoor time to enjoy your living space instead of maintaining outdoor furniture. Look for easy-care patio furniture that minimizes the need for maintenance. Metal, teak, cedar and wicker items will stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at them. Make these materials more durable with some regular cleaning. You can also accessorize patio furniture with outdoor cushions and pillows that have removable covers that make them easy to wash in the washing machine.
4. Match the color to your outdoor decor
When shopping for patio furniture, you shouldn't be limited to just neutral or natural tones of wood. Wicker, wood, and sheet metal now come in a variety of colorful trims. Look for furniture in colors that will accentuate your landscaping, home surfaces, or other outdoor decor. But if the right color isn't available, a DIY paint job can make any shade of patio furniture look better.