Does your backyard feel a little empty? What about those old, worn down chairs hanging around the patio? When it's time to build or upgrade your backyard furnishings, there are a few things to know before diving in. Here are 3 steps to help you create the perfect backyard paradise.
Step One: Determine Space and Location
If you already have a spot planned out, this is an easy step for you. If not, the following might prove helpful as you're preparing for your lounge space.
The majority of lounge spaces you'll see are built relatively close to the house. This provides easy access to your patio or deck furniture and offers an easy way to install an awning for protection against unsavory weather. Depending on your lot, though, sometimes this particular layout isn't wanted, or even possible.
While large, open spaces provide the most options for furniture placement, many yards have dips, rocks, trees, water fixtures, and other features that can make things difficult. The great thing about backyard lounges is they're mobile. Tables, chairs, and other furniture aren't locked in place, allowing you to move them wherever you think best. If you do plan on placing your lounge out in the yard, take into account any possible yardwork or utility access that your furniture might impede.
Step Two: Select Material
Metal, wood, or wicker? When deciding on furniture for your lounge you might be focusing solely on visual appeal. This is important, as it should be. This is your backyard, you'll be spending a good deal of time there, and you want it to look the best it can. In addition to looks, it's a good idea to understand the pros and cons of each material type.
Metal is generally very durable and low-cost. It looks nice, holds up well, and has a wide variety of aesthetics. Metal is also a great option if you're looking for furniture and other outdoor décor that doesn't require much maintenance. However, depending on your location and climate, rusting is a possibility. If you live in such a climate, be sure to treat the metal to help prevent rust.
Wicker is incredibly versatile. In addition to being cheap, this lightweight option can come in a variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and is perfect both for indoor and outdoor placement. If you're new to backyard lounges or don't know what will and won't match, wicker might be the perfect starter material.
A hardwood table surrounded by wooden chairs is a beautiful sight to see. There's just something comforting and welcoming about wood. The natural, earthy tones of wood help it match well with most décor, and its long-lasting durability means you won't have to worry about replacing it often. One thing to note is that wood requires timely maintenance. It's not much, just a simple treatment every few months to a year, but failure to treat the wood could lead to rotting and other issues that are difficult and costly to repair.
Step Three: Choose Furniture
This is probably the easiest step. This whole process started with an idea in mind, and that idea was full of furniture, right? You're all set! But before you jump in the car to track down your perfect pieces, what is the function of your backyard lounge?
Are you planning on spending time reading? Eating? Cooking? Chatting? These shouldn't drastically change the style of your lounge, but it's good to think about what you'll be spending the most time doing before purchasing any furniture. Circular sets offer a great way to converse with family and friends. Add a firepit and you've got yourself a nice evening retreat. Lounge sets can come with reclining seats, comfortable swings, and even day beds.
Ultimately, it doesn't matter what your lounge looks like as long as it's perfect for you. Put in a porch swing by your grill? Why not. Burgers probably taste better that way. Reclining chair under your walnut tree, table by your shed, firepit wherever it is people put firepits. Creating a backyard lounge is a fun and fulfilling activity that provides you with your own little piece of paradise.
