When shopping for patio furniture sets, size and style should both be taken into account. Options range from three-piece bistro sets that include a table and two simple chairs up to nine-piece dining sets designed for larger outdoor areas.
With the right outdoor furniture sets, a spacious deck or cozy porch can become an inviting space for relaxation and entertainment. Explore modern styles like rattan and wicker chairs or vintage-inspired pieces such as retro metal lounges.
Size
Patio furniture sets aren’t just made for comfort and style – they’re also constructed to withstand weather elements and ensure your outdoor living space lasts year after year. Rattan chairs, wicker loungers and retro metal patio furniture all make durable additions for any deck or porch – and The Great Escape has a selection of durable pieces from brands like Tropitone Hanamint Lloyd Flanders to help you find exactly the dining set, sectional or fire table that best matches both your patio space and budget!
Before choosing patio furniture sets, the first step should be assessing how much space is available for seating arrangements. To calculate this space allocation, measure the dimensions of your outdoor patio. From there you can decide how many chairs and tables will best suit this outdoor living space.
Typically, most outdoor furniture sets include two dining chairs and a table. Depending on your requirements and seating needs, you could select either a standard round, oval, or rectangular patio table; or opt for a smaller 3-pc patio chair dining set – ideal for narrow apartment balcony spaces and condo decks which only require minimal footprint to provide plenty of seating options.
Height should also be taken into consideration when purchasing a patio table and chairs. To do so, arrange the chairs around your patio table in their normal positions before measuring from end-to-end – this will provide chair back height from ground. Ultimately this information can help you choose a patio table that best meets your overall space requirements.
When choosing patio furniture sets to add to your outdoor space, ensure they’re easy to maintain and clean. For example, when selecting comfortable wicker chairs with removable cushions that can be machine washed easily – this makes keeping them looking their best all season easy.
Style
Are You Host Cocktail Parties Or Have Sunset Dates? Having the appropriate patio furniture helps create an inviting and comfortable outdoor space, whether that’s hosting cocktails with friends or snuggling close under the stars for a sunset date. Selecting your desired aesthetic and layout dimensions helps narrow down the options available so that you find an appropriate sofa set or outdoor table measurements to suit your space.
For example, if your patio seating will serve as a lounge area to read or watch the sunset from, consider investing in a 3-piece outdoor living furniture set that features a comfortable wicker lounge chair and two folding patio chairs that can easily fit through doors and on footpaths. These sets also make great additions to apartment balconies or condo decks.
When hosting dinner parties on your patio, 8pc outdoor dining furniture sets can provide the ideal solution. They include perfectly matched dining chairs and tables with standard outdoor table measurements – providing ample seating capacity.
If you’re looking for something other than the standard rectangular patio table, consider oval or round outdoor dining tables as they provide more contemporary touches and can fit more snug spaces with minimal clearance needed.
Once you’ve selected your patio tables and chairs, don’t forget about accessories such as outdoor cushions, pillows, rugs and wall decor as essential finishing touches for your patio space. Cushions, pillows, rugs and wall decor allow you to personalize it and add functional enhancements that further maximize its functionality. Nebraska Furniture Mart’s patio furniture selection can be previewed online and purchased directly online or over the phone; otherwise arrange an in store appointment or virtual shopping session with one of their experienced exterior design specialists at any NFM store near you for personalized help when shopping!
Material
When purchasing a patio furniture set, it’s essential to take note of its composition. Each material offers different advantages and disadvantages; some materials might even work better for certain climate conditions than others. In addition, the type of material will affect price and style factors.
Wood patio furniture is a classic choice, thanks to its comfortable seating and durability. Wood can also be treated with water-repellent finishes that protect it against rainwater damage and other environmental factors that could compromise it over time. However, wooden furniture may warp or split over time.
Metal furniture is another popular option for outdoor patio use as it is lightweight and adaptable. You’ll often find metal tables and chairs coated with protective finishes to prevent rusting in wet climates; however, the surface may become hot or cold to the touch at extreme temperatures, necessitating additional cushioning or upholstery for ultimate comfort.
Concrete outdoor furniture is an eye-catching and contemporary choice, featuring sleek surfaces and weather-proof construction suited for modern homes. Additionally, you may even be able to find furniture made out of concrete enhanced with fiberglass or resin additives for stain-resistance.
Synthetic materials like plastic resin and PVC are easy to care for as they can be cleaned using mild soap and water, making them great budget options. Yet synthetic furniture may become fragile over time; therefore, it’s wise to inspect it frequently for wear and tear.
If you live near the coast, it is essential that your furniture patio set can withstand saltwater and other environmental factors that may corrode metal and degrade wood surfaces, as well as heavy winds. You should search for sets with resistance against saltwater damage as well as ones designed to stand up to strong winds.
Seating Capacity
No matter if you’re creating an intimate outdoor dining nook, cozy patio reading spot or relaxing coffee bar – seating capacity is key. Most patio furniture sets include perfectly matched tables and chairs in both standard height and bar-height options to fit into your space and entertaining needs – for instance a three-piece bistro set is great for small porches while five or nine piece patio dining tables provide enough seating for large families or frequent entertainers.
To give yourself an accurate idea of how the furniture you’re considering fits in your layout, use masking tape or kraft paper cut to the size of each proposed item to map its placement and spacing. As a general guideline, 3 feet of space should be allowed around tables so as to not block walkways or intrude on doorways; for tight patio spaces, opt for round or oval tables instead of rectangular ones to add comfortable seating space.
Beyond seating, there are other ways to add flair and make your outdoor retreat truly inviting. Discover outdoor pillows, patio rugs and wall decor that coordinate perfectly with your new furniture for a cohesive aesthetic.
Search our extensive collection of patio furniture to create the ultimate backyard retreat. With an incredible variety of sizes and styles to choose from, we are certain you’ll find exactly what you need for an idyllic backyard escape! Choose the ideal outdoor dining table, patio sofa, chaise lounge or fire pit that complements the space available to you. Need help making a decision? Use our helpful buying guides or our helpful tips on furniture purchases that you will cherish over time – then take advantage of our flexible delivery and financing solutions to save both time and money when making changes to your patio upgrade project!
Storage
Many outdoor furniture sets feature storage features to make storing cushions, umbrellas, garden tools or shovels quick and simple. Some tables nest together to allow chairs and coffee tables to fit within a smaller space while folding seats may fold underneath each other for storage purposes – making space saving arrangements that keep patio areas tidy and organized easier than ever! These options will save room on decks as they help keep patio areas tidier.
Alternatively, if your patio furniture set does not include built-in storage features, simple storage solutions such as plastic totes or shelving units may help add them yourself. Clear totes make it easier to see what’s inside them when searching for items later; label each tote so it is easy for retrieval when required. Store long-term in your garage, shed or basement or install them directly onto your porch or patio for immediate access when necessary.
Low-cost storage solutions include standard utility tarps that are tailored and fitted specifically to protect furniture from the elements. While these may not look as appealing as covers, they still get the job done – perfect for those on a tight budget!
Deck boxes provide another storage solution, similar to seating benches or end tables in appearance. While designed primarily to store patio furniture, these large deck boxes can also serve as great places to keep grilling equipment, gardening tools, pool toys and household supplies hidden away between uses. Some even come equipped with lockable doors for added protection against pets or children!