With nicer weather on the horizon, you’ll likely be spending more and more time outdoors. Now’s a good time to treat your patio to a makeover by updating your existing furniture. It doesn’t matter if your space is big or small: It’s possible to create a tranquil outdoor oasis by choosing your furniture and layout carefully. As you shop for the perfect patio seating, ask yourself a few simple questions:
- How will I be using the patio (e.g., family dinners, barbecues, parties, etc.)?
- How many people will I need to seat?
- Will I be using my patio year-round or just seasonally?
- Does my patio furniture have to be kid- and pet-friendly?
- Do I want patio furniture that offers extra function, such as storage?
Next, take a look at the possible seating options you can use and think about which would work best for how you want to use your space.
- Sling Chairs: A sling chair is type of suspended chair that has a back and seat formed from a single sheet of leather, canvas, or other durable material. Sling chairs are practical for damp locations, such as poolside, due to their quick-drying properties. They are also great at withstanding sun, rain, and wind.
- Cushion Chairs: Add instant comfort to your patio with plush cushion chairs. Cushion chairs are widely available and can be found in countless colors, designs, and textures to complement your outdoor living space.
- Gliders: A glider is a type of rocking chair or bench that moves in a smooth back-and-forth motion. Unlike a traditional rocking chair, gliders remain flat on the floor. Their compact size and fixed dimensions can make them a suitable choice for small patios.
- Swings: Whether free-standing or hung with ropes from a beam or tree branch, patio swings allow homeowners to lounge in style and comfort.
- Adirondack Chairs: Adirondack chairs are low, sloped wooden seats perfect for relaxing. Similar to an outdoor armchair, these chairs are a sturdy outdoor staple and come in both natural and bold colors.
- Benches: If you have a large family or just like to entertain, patio benches can be a highly convenient seating option. Benches can be used to complement patio chairs and often contain space underneath the seats for storage.
- Stacking Chairs: Stacking patio chairs are a practical solution for homes that have limited outdoor space but want plenty of seating for when company stops by. As the name suggests, stacking chairs easily stack to save space when not in use.
- Hammock Chairs: Hammock chairs are a versatile seating option for any outdoor space. They don’t take up much room on crowded patios and offer a comfy place to sit and relax when perched under a shade tree. You can find hammock chairs suspended from patio roofs or with their own frames to hold them.
- Daybeds: For the ultimate in comfort, consider adding a daybed to your patio. Daybeds are the perfect size for curling up with a cold drink and a good book. These beds often contain plush cushions, tons of pillows, and covers to keep the sun out of your eyes.