I’ve been searching for the perfect outdoor furniture to add some style to a garden space. There is lots to choose from however I’m coming up against one big problem. I have a confession to make. I hate most garden furniture.
Well actually, specifically I hate brown rattan garden furniture. I’m sure you know the stuff I mean. Dark brown, poly rattan, boxy garden sofas and chairs with matching cream coloured seat cushions.
It’s not because it isn’t stylish - I’ll admit it can look great in well manicured gardens.
It’s not because it isn’t comfortable - it is.
It’s not because it isn’t practical - it is really hardwearing, waterproof and easy to clean.
I just hate it because… it’s everywhere.
In every garden, hotel or posh restaurant terrace and holiday beach club. Anywhere the sun is shining in the UK you can’t seem to get away from this stuff. It’s has become like an indigenous plant species that thrives in it’s natural habitat of patios and landscaped gardens. In recent years it has tried to re-invent itself by appearing in different colours but the most interesting it got was wait for it… grey.
Surely somewhere out there is an alternative to the dreaded brown and cream garden sofa? Where can I find garden furniture with some style - colour, clean lines and unique design?
Garden Furniture pick for Summer 2017
I’ve been hunting down some new garden furniture and the brief was simple - no brown and cream wicker allowed. Surprisingly I didn’t have to look too far. Here’s what I came up with.
Sydney Outdoor Furniture - Next
A stylish contemporary white furniture set. With it’s pastel blue cushions and a hint of retro design this furniture would be perfect for recreating Miami beach house style in your home. Chair £199, Sofa £299, Coffee table £70.
The Truro Collection - Marks and Spencer
The classic style of this collection would look great in a conservatory as well as outside in the garden. The sofa would work well as a bench seat for traditional teak garden table. From £199.
Skagaarden Reso Lounge chair and table from Houseology
If you love Scandinavian style then these are the chairs for you. A stackable outdoor lounge chair that oozes style. What’s more there’s 5 gorgeous colours to choose from - black, grey, white, pastel green and pink! (Not available in dark brown - yay!) Chair from £499, Coffee table from £379.
Joalie garden chairs from La Redoute
A true design icon straight from the 1950s. Style it monochrome or add colour to your space with bright coral, blue or yellow shades also available. £175.00
Hugo Outdoor range - Cuckooland.com
The Hugo outdoor armchair and footstool and modular corner sofa are perfect for creating a luxurious lounging area in the garden. The playful design brings the luxury of upholstered indoor furniture styles outside into the garden.
They can also handle the British weather. The furniture can be left out in showers thanks to a special foam interior that allows the water to quickly flow through the cushions. Armchair from £649 available at Cuckooland.com
Sri Lanka Day Bed - Next
Cocoon yourself in the Sri Lanka day bed from Next. Placed in a quiet corner surrounded by trees and flowers, this makes the perfect spot to getaway from it all. £999.00
Menton Luxury Teak Sofa Bench - Cuckooland.com
Finally I’ve chosen this teak sofa it is such an enduring piece. A classic design made from sustainable teak will last for many years as teak ages beautifully. It will look good in any surroundings as trends in garden furniture come and go.