With so many furniture stores offering online shopping these days, shopping for all your décor needs has become so much more convenient and fun! However, when it comes to choosing outdoor furniture there are a few things to look out for before spending your well-earned cash. We share a few tips to make this exciting task a whole lot less stressful.
1. EXAMINE YOUR NEEDS
A good way to kick off this journey is to examine your needs, will you be entertaining, and if so, will it be dinner outside, lounging by the pool or breakfast for two on the patio. Once you’ve determined what your outdoor space allows, it’s time to pull out a tape measure and see what you have space for and where it needs to be placed and what kind of weather it will have to endure — whether it’s a covered space or completely open. Once you’ve done your homework it’s time to start the fun bit.
2. ONLINE VS IN REAL LIFE
One of the few good things the pandemic brought along with it, is the boom in online retail with so many retailers offering a comprehensive online shopping experience. This has also made the search for the perfect outdoor lounge set a far more fun endeavour, that allows you to scrawl through tons of beautiful options in the comfort of your own home with no mask to speak of.
However, when it comes to buying furniture, it might be worth venturing out after making your online selection and experiencing that dream daybed you spotted online before adding it to your cart. This will prevent the disappointment and frustration that comes with having to return something because the colour looks different in real life or it’s uncomfortable, or badly made — especially a large piece of furniture.
3. TAKE YOUR TIME
Never rush a big expense, honestly not worth it as shopper's remorse is a real thing and investing in furniture the right way can bring you years of joy or years of painful replacements. Plus it’s more eco-conscious!
Of course, we all love a bargain and that impulse buy when you’re feeling low, but when it comes to furniture it might not be the best idea. Therefore, taking the time to shop around at your own leisure. Flick through some Pinterest boards to get a better sense of what you want and saving up for comfort and durability is time well spent.
4. DON’T FALL FOR LOOKS ONLY
We all love things that look good, but it also must feel good especially when it comes to investing in your downtime.
No-one wants to sit on an uncomfortable beautiful chair or sofa after a long day at work, and there is simply not enough wine in the world that will make it comfortable
So before you get too excited about that beautiful-looking chair, visit the showroom and try it out first and see if it’s comfortable, sturdy and well-made. And remember to always check the care instructions to ensure that it will withstand the weather conditions in the position you plan to place it.
5. WHERE WE SHOP
Some of our favourite retailers when shopping for outdoor furniture include Coricraft, @home Homeware Store, Mr Price Home, Patiowarehouse and MØN Exteriors to name just a few. These guys really know their stuff and offer a wide selection of affordable outdoor furniture and accessories in line with the latest trends.
We’re also big fans of local design talent and highly recommend you have a look at designers like Haldane Martin, The Urbanative, Douglas & Douglas and Kuiertable who currently have some of the best new collections to drool over.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.