Investing in high-quality outdoor furniture is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about choosing materials that will stand the test of time, endure the elements, and maintain their beauty season after season. With so many options available, it’s always useful to know the benefits and characteristics of different materials to help you make an informed decision. Here’s a look into the best outdoor furniture materials, from teak to powder-coated aluminium, and how they perform over time.

Timeless Teak

Teak is widely regarded as one of the best materials for outdoor furniture, thanks to its exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. Teak contains natural oils that make it highly resistant to water, preventing rot and decay. Over time, it develops a silver-grey patina, adding to its charm and character.

Carl Hansen & Son’s latest outdoor collection featuring the gorgeous Embrace outdoor chair is a beautiful demonstration of craftsmanship using FSC-certified teak. Often outdoor furniture, particularly when wooden, doesn’t have comfort at the forefront of design, the Embrace chair however is a different story. The idea behind the collection was to combine outdoor living with indoor comfort. Precise woodwork allows for a thick backrest with gentle curved edges to create an extremely comfortable dining experience. The untreated teak will also develop a beautiful and unique patina over time.

The Power of Powder-coated Aluminium

Powder-coated aluminium is a sleek, modern option that offers strength without the weight. Unlike untreated metals, aluminium doesn’t corrode, making it ideal for humid or coastal environments. It is also lightweight yet sturdy making it easy to move around but strong enough to withstand the elements. The powder-coating process also allows for a range of colours and finishes to suit a whole host of styles!

Andreu World’s recently released Brezal Chair, designed by Patricia Urquiola, seamlessly blends past and present. Designed for outdoor leisure and relaxation, it features an outdoor-treated aluminium frame available in six colours. Its versatile configurations include chairs and armchairs with corded elements and the option for upholstered cushions and backrests for a stylish and practical choice.

Woven Wonders

Outdoor woven materials offer a perfect combination of comfort, sophistication and long-lasting performance. Often made from polypropylene or acrylic, this material can be a great choice as it is often resistant to moisture, mould, and fading.

A prime example of this is Gubi’s MR01 Initial outdoor lounge chair. Crafted with custom-made, high-performance polyester rope, the chair stands out for its striking design while maintaining exceptional durability. The woven material is waterproof, making it an ideal choice for poolside settings or regions with unpredictable weather (Scotland springs to mind!).  Additionally, it is UV-resistant, ensuring the chair won’t fade or degrade over time and an anti-deformation core also helps maintain the shape of the rope to prevent stretching and preserve the chair for years to come.

Strength of Stainless Steel 

For a more industrial or high-end contemporary look, stainless steel is a strong and stylish choice. Unlike lightweight metals, stainless steel offers excellent stability, even in windy conditions. Hem’s Chop collection is a wonderful example of how stainless steel can be used to create sleek, durable furniture with a refined aesthetic. Chop combines precision engineering with minimalist design, making it a perfect fit for modern interiors and outdoor spaces alike. Its clean lines and robust construction highlight the strength and elegance of stainless steel, ensuring both style and longevity.

Concrete and Stone

Concrete and stone materials bring a solid, architectural feel to outdoor spaces. Often these options are resistant to weather and UV exposure, and can be great for heavy use. It’s important to remember that some natural stones, whilst undeniably beautiful, they can have very porous surfaces and may need sealing to prevent staining and water absorption. We would therefore always recommend to check the manufacturer’s instructions and consider how and where you intend to use items. Just something to keep in mind!

The Tobi-Ishi Outdoor dining and coffee table is an extension of the iconic Zen-inspired indoor table collection from B&B Italia. The name references polished stones used ornamentally in traditional Japanese gardens. A sculptural piece designed to make a statement, Tobi-Ishi Outdoor is made of cement in four different colours including anthracite, brick, grey and green cement.

Looking for Guidance?

When designing an outdoor space, choosing the right materials is key to ensuring your furniture remains beautiful and durable over time. Whether you love the warmth of teak, the sleekness of powder-coated aluminium, or the versatility of woven materials, investing in quality pieces will elevate your outdoor living experience for years to come.

If you’re considering refreshing your outdoor space at home or perhaps you’re working on a restaurant, cafe or hotel project, now is the perfect time to invest in durable stylish furniture that will be ready for Summer. Contact one of our interior designers today for advice and inspiration.

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