Patio and Porch Furnishings

Thanks to recent innovations in patio and porch furnishings and in outdoor furniture, you can now enjoy kicking back on your porch for at least three seasons of the year. When the lawn is too wet, the ground too cold, and the air inside too stuffy, the solid floor of your (heated) patio lets you to relax, breath fresh air, and enjoy the patio oasis you have created. In addition to patio chairs and tables, there are a host of other patio and porch furnishings that will compliment your outdoor décor and enhance your outdoor experience.

Types of Patio Furniture

When picking patio and porch furniture, consider both function and fashion. You want furniture that is comfortable, durable (weather resistant), and yet stylish. Basic patio/porch furniture includes tables, chairs, chaise lounges, swings, rockers, hammocks, and garden benches. The material of your outdoor furniture is the most important element, with the most popular choices being wicker, aluminum, iron, wrought iron, rattan, and wood (teak and cedar).

Patio and Porch Covers

When it comes to protecting your backyard or front yard porch from Mother Nature (i.e. sun, wind, and rain), you have many options. Today's porch and patio coverings include canopies, awnings, aluminum patio covers, corrugated metal roofs, gazebos, umbrellas, pergolas, traditional roofs, trees, and trellis.

Patio and Porch Floors

Key considerations for patio and porch flooring are budget, design appeal, and durability. Today's outdoor flooring materials include: concrete, wood, brick, stone, bamboo, tile, stamped and colored concrete, and flagstone. You can also decorate your outdoor floors with rock slabs of various shapes, sizes and colors. Finally, investing in an outdoor area rug or carpet is a great way to compliment and liven up your outdoor décor.

Patio and Porch Lighting

Did you know that contemporary patio lights are more than a mere utility? Attractive outdoor lighting not only ensures that you and your guests have enough light, and improves the safety, curb appeal, and value of your property, but lighting can draw attention to and accentuate your patio décor and add a distinct ambience to your outdoor space. To create a dramatic, romantic, country or other unique atmosphere, modern patio lighting solutions can work wonders at casting a magical spell on your twilight hours.

To show off special architectural features, aim lighting upwards or directly at it. For a particularly breathtaking effect, install patio lights on the pathway and on each step of the staircase leading up to your porch, patio, or deck. You can use energy saving, low-voltage solar lights or light up your patio and porch area with torches, candles, and lanterns.

Patio Plants

The most common addition and decorative element of outdoor patios are plants, flowers, and gardens. To plan your patio garden, consider whether or not your patio is covered, how much sunlight it receives, and the amount of free space available next to your patio furniture. Whether you plant bulbs, annuals, or perennials, bushes, trees, or vegetables, plants bring your outdoor space to life. To accessorize your greenery, invest in decorative plant holders and baskets, and be creative by mixing and matching shrubs with climbing plants and tall-growing plants.