How to Choose the Best Outdoor Furniture
Everything you need to enjoy your outside spaces.
Make the most of your patio space with the perfect outdoor furniture layout. Whether you have an itty-bitty balcony or a large backyard, we’ve got some patio furniture arrangement ideas to help you when buying patio furniture. Use our guide to find the best outdoor deck furniture ideas to decorate your private retreat.
Tip!
When considering deck and patio furniture ideas, allow 2' around seating areas and 3' around dining areas to account for the flow of traffic,
Small: 2 – 3 People
Even the smallest outdoor space can become your oasis away from the world. Our best patio furniture arrangement idea? Opt for folding or stacking furniture that can be stashed away and takes up minimum square footage.
Relaxing
If you want a quiet haven in which to curl up with a good book and a glass of wine, choose a plush club chair or two. For a narrow or asymmetrical layout, try a hammock!
Dining
If you prefer to dine alfresco, a bistro table set won't take up much room.
Entertaining
With space at a premium, outdoor floor pillows can double as seating, while serving trays act as tables for libations and snacks.
Combined
For the perfect dual-purpose space, pair a small folding table with cushy lounge chairs. The table can be used both for dining and as an end table for lounging, making it the perfect deck furniture idea.
Tip!
If you have yard space rather than patio space, think about some classic, durable Adirondack chairs or long lounge chairs perfect for sunning.
Increase your seating and dining options with conversation sets, and share your outdoor space with family and friends with these easy deck furniture ideas.
Relaxing
If you are looking for the perfect patio furniture ideas, outdoor sofas or loveseats will make your outdoor space feel as comfortable as an indoor living room. A patio swing is a fun combination of a hammock and a sofa. Pull up a small table or garden stool for a place to set your reads and refreshments.
Dining
If you enjoy hosting open-air meals but have limited space, go with a picnic table. If your space allows it, an outdoor grill will allow you to prepare food outside, too.
Entertaining
A four-piece conversation set with a loveseat, two chairs, and a coffee table creates an outdoor living room. Shade your entertaining area (or dining area) with a broad umbrella.
Combined
Place a fire pit in the center of your seating arrangement for ambiance while entertaining, relaxing, or dining.
Now that you've got the space, create separate activity zones (complete with functional extras) for lounging and hosting – something for everyone.
Relaxing
Take advantage of the extra room by stretching out on a daybed or a larger sectional.
Dining
The best patio dining set will seat at least eight people so you don't have to pare down the guest list.
Entertaining
An outdoor bar set provides a festive touch, while a large outdoor kitchen makes it easy to feed a crowd. A chimnea is the elevated version of a fire pit and is an excellent statement-making centerpiece.
Combined
With a large outdoor space, you don't need your furniture to do double duty. Instead, bring an interior design trick outdoors! Lay down outdoor rugs to designate separate areas and provide comfort underfoot. Multipurpose ottomans and storage benches double as seating.
Tip!
Need a little shade? Enclose your seating or living arrangement with a gorgeous gazebo or pergola.
