Setting the Stage for Spring

When we start planning our outdoor spaces, we often start from one place – the style of our furniture. Generally, we know whether we prefer classic rattan or contemporary aluminium. However, following a few fundamentals will help you pick the right function of furniture for you and make sure that the space you create will work as you need, throughout the year, and season after season. Consider our 3 P's before you settle on your set. By planning with purpose, people and place in mind, you can ensure you pick the right set, for all the right reasons.

Purpose

There are three main functions of outdoor furniture; dining, living and lounging. Dining, as it suggests, focuses on mealtimes and moments of entertaining with food. Living is an extension of your space, an outdoor lounge, or bonus room. And lounging is all about relaxation. Prioritise the usage that works best for your lifestyle or find a set which has multiple uses for different occasions.

People

If your garden is primarily where you enjoy a cup of afternoon tea or your morning coffee, a bistro set might be the right choice for you. Likewise, your garden may be your sanctuary.

A bench nestled between trees, away from the hum of traffic, is ideal if you're seeking real solace and quiet. If you have a larger family, or enjoy entertaining groups on a regular basis, generous sofa sets will make them feel welcome, especially if there's an integrated firepit to keep them warm, late into the evening.

Place

Firstly, measure the area available. You will need to consider what will realistically be enough room for you and your guests to relax in, as well as allowing people to move freely around the set. Would a corner sofa perfectly align with the wall, or would an elliptical set give you the best balance? Be careful not to over or underwhelm a patio area or terrace.

A smaller set can look lost and out of place on a larger standing area, whilst a large sofa set can dominate if there's not enough space left around it.