Outdoor Furniture - Inside Out Rooms

Those staples of Americana might be tucked into the corner of some backyards, but the buzzword in the industry is "outdoor rooms."

The only thing missing from this room are the walls and ceiling -- but that's okay, it's an "outdoor room." Creating comfortable outdoor spaces that can be used daily is popular with everyone from apartment dwellers to owners of country estates. The Normandy four-piece seating group from Kingsley-Bates is made of teak with weather resistant fabric cushions. The sofa, chair, coffee table and end table sell for about $3,000 (October 2005).

Casa lamp
This lamp looks like something you'd find in a library or den, but it's meant for outdoor use. The Casablanca from Olympia Lighting features a sturdy resin base, acrylic fabric shade, insulated dimmer switch and a 19 foot outdoor cord. The lamp retails for $489 (October 2005).

More than half of today’s consumers consider their yards and patios as important as the other rooms in their home, according to a recent survey conducted by The Michael Cohen Group for the casual furniture association. Two-thirds of those surveyed said outdoor space was a major factor in buying a particular house.

Americans are spending more time and money than ever on outdoor decorating and furnishings, according to the association.

Much of the growth has come from middle income buyers. New materials and technology makes it possible to find attractive outdoor furnishings at many price levels. Sectional sofas, throw pillows, and dining tables that seat eight are no longer for indoors only. Outdoor spaces are being furnished with pieces that resemble and feel like family room furniture. Manufacturers are offering all-weather upholstery in designer colors and patterns, wicker that can get wet, and outdoor floor coverings that actually feel like indoor carpet.

Homeowners are thinking of outdoor space as an extension of the home, rather than a separate, isolated space. Some 41% of those surveyed said they spend time in their outdoor area every day when weather permits. Another 40% said they are outside several times a week.

Many of those surveyed said they expect to have to replace outdoor furnishings every five years. Still, they identified comfort (86%) and durability (84%) as most important in choosing furnishings for their outdoor spaces. Other top criteria included sturdiness (66%), easy care (60%), sun-resistance (57%), water-resistance (57%), capability to constantly remain outside (55%) and mobility (55%).

Wood still ranks top in choices for outdoor furnishings, with a hefty number preferring weather resistant teak (26 percent). Wrought iron and metal are also popular, especially coated aluminum that won't rust and is easy to maintain. But consumers don't just want traditional-looking furniture; they expect outdoor furniture to provide ergonomic support and comfort as well as style.

century couch
The sectionals moves outdoors in this stainless steel sofa and ottoman by Century. Designer Richard Frinier was inspired by early 20th century yacht railings in creating this all-weather furniture. Cushions are covered with classic sailcloth. Estimated cost of this grouping of two corner units and an ottoman is $8,100.

teak chair

Another piece by Frinier for Century, the Archipelago, features fine furniture detailing such as rosettes and reeded legs in durable teak. Cushions of polyester fiber contain no foam, and are weather and fade resistant. The manufacturer recommends removing wet cushions and standing them on edge for drying. The teak is meant for year-round use outdoors. Frequent cleaning and a yearly re-sealing are recommended to maintain the color of the wood.

wicker chair
Outdoor upholstery needn't be dull. Many designer colors and patterns are now available in outdoor fabrics. This all-weather wicker chaise features deep cushions with a lively floral fabric and decorative braided rope trim. At home inside or out, the Caribe by Lloyd Flanders retails fro about $1,900.

room
Outdoor spaces can mean anything from a country estate to a rooftop garden. This set from Telescope Casual Furniture can seat six comfortably. Savona Sling aluminum dining chairs have built-in lumbar support for added comfort. The seven-piece dining group retails for about $1,766 (October 2005).

rugs
Rugs in colorful strips and tweeds by Tyndall Creek Furniture Company are pretty enough to use inside. But the polypropylene rugs are designed for outdoor use. Water drains through the rugs, which also resist fading, mold and mildew. Rugs meet federal flammability standards and may be used near barbecue grills. Available in sizes ranging from 2' x 3' to 9' x 12', the rugs start at about $65 (October 2005).

Outdoor Furniture: Inside Out Rooms