Make the most of longer days and balmy evenings with furniture that can cope with anything the seasons throw at them
Outdoor furniture has to do more than look pretty. It needs a frame strong enough to withstand the harsh weather we experience in New Zealand and durable, life-proof upholstery. Here’s how to pick a winning outdoor selection that’ll be with you for many years to come.
Criteria
Outdoor furniture has to do more than look pretty. It needs a frame strong enough to withstand the harsh weather we experience in New Zealand and durable, life-proof upholstery. Here’s how to pick a winning outdoor selection that’ll be with you for many years to come.
Protection
Keeping outdoor furniture protected with a vented outdoor cover will extend its life and mean you’re not having to scrub it down ahead of a long lunch. To get more out of the fabric and shield it from the elements, consider using a fabric protector that will help to repel dirt, water and moisture. But you still need to clean the furniture, including aluminium styles, regularly using warm, soapy water or an approved outdoor furniture cleaner. Most outdoor fabrics can be cleaned in a washing machine on a cold-water cycle with a moderate amount of detergent. Spot cleaning is recommended as soon as possible for spills and, if you use fabric protector, reapply a coat after an intense clean.
Materials
The materials from which your outdoor furniture is constructed play a key role in the longevity of the design so buy once, buy well. Ensure it is made from corrosion-resistant metals or is protected with corrosion-resistant coatings. Hardwood is a good option and it’s hard to go past full aluminium settings. Aluminium frames are key for anything outdoors, especially in coastal regions. Even wicker furniture has a frame and, if made from steel, may not last as long as you’d hoped. Hardwood timbers have been used for years and are well-suited to our environment. When it comes
to upholstery, Olefin and Sunbrella fabrics are the way to go for colourfastness and ease of maintenance.
Selection
Price point is not always indicative of quality so check for three things: a good frame, good fabric and a good warranty.
On the exterior
Outdoor furniture is as stylish and trend-driven as your interior pieces. After all, this is your outdoor room we’re talking about
1/11
Nouveau Woodland four-piece outdoor lounge setting, $3999, from Mitre 10.
2/11
Milan dining chair, $259, from Nood.
3/11
Sardinia outdoor sofa, $4895, from Coco Republic.
4/11
Cannes sofa, $1899, from Freedom.
5/11
Flute ceramic top dining table, $3299, from Early Settler.
6/11
Fermob Bellevie two-seater sofa, $5190, from Jardin.
7/11
Shore outdoor sun lounge, $3795, from Coco Republic.
8/11
Oliver concrete outdoor dining table, $3295, from Coco Republic.
9/11
Business & Pleasure The Tommy beach chair, $320, from Paper Plane.
10/11
Kace dining table, $599, from Early Settler.
11/11
Linea outdoor dining package, $949, from Freedom.
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