Style
Where to Buy Outdoor Furniture
Oct
If you have been wondering where to buy outdoor furniture that combines lasting quality, genuine comfort and timeless style, the answer lies in choosing an established furniture specialist rather than settling for the first set you find. The best places to shop are reputable showrooms with a strong online presence, knowledgeable staff and a proven track record, because outdoor furniture is an investment that should serve your home for many years. Knowing what to look for, which materials suit the British climate and how to match pieces to your space will make the entire buying journey far simpler.
Outdoor living has become a natural extension of the modern home. Gardens, patios and balconies are no longer afterthoughts; they are spaces for dining, relaxing and entertaining, often enjoyed from early spring right through to autumn. The right furniture transforms these areas into somewhere you genuinely want to spend time, whether that means a compact bistro set for morning coffee or a generous corner sofa for family gatherings.
At Evans of High Wycombe, we have spent decades helping customers furnish every corner of their homes, and our outdoor range follows the same philosophy as everything else we stock. Alongside our designer sofa collection for the home, you will find outdoor pieces chosen for their build quality, comfort and style, all supported by friendly, expert advice from our team in High Wycombe. Whether you are shopping online or visiting us in person, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you buy.
Key Takeaways Summary
- Buy from a reputable specialist with a showroom, so you can test comfort and judge quality before committing.
- Frame material matters most: powder coated aluminium and quality synthetic rattan suit low maintenance lifestyles, while teak offers exceptional longevity.
- Always measure your space, plan the layout and check access routes before ordering.
- Mid range furniture from a trusted retailer usually delivers better long term value than the cheapest option.
- The end of summer and seasonal sale periods offer the best prices on outdoor furniture.
- Check warranty cover, delivery options and storage requirements before you buy.
Where to Buy Outdoor Furniture Online
Shopping online has made it easier than ever to compare styles, materials and prices from the comfort of your sofa. The best approach is to use the internet for research: read detailed product descriptions, check exact dimensions, compare frame materials and look at recent customer reviews. Retailers who clearly list specifications, cushion fabric details and warranty terms are showing confidence in what they sell, which is always a reassuring sign.
That said, the smartest way to buy is to combine online research with a showroom visit. Photographs can be flattering, but nothing tells you more about a garden sofa than sitting on it. At Evans of High Wycombe, you can browse our ranges online at your leisure, then visit our High Wycombe showroom to see the furniture up close, test the comfort and speak with our team about which pieces will suit your garden best.
| Where to Shop | Advantages | Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Established furniture showrooms with websites | Expert advice, quality guaranteed, test before buying, delivery and aftercare | Slightly higher prices reflect better quality and service |
| Online only retailers | Wide choice, quick price comparisons | Cannot test comfort, quality can vary, returns can be difficult |
| Garden centres and department stores | Convenient, seasonal displays | Limited ranges, seasonal staff may lack product knowledge |
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Furniture
The single most important decision is the frame material, because it determines durability, comfort, weight and how much maintenance your furniture will need. The British climate is unforgiving, with rain, frost, UV rays and damp all taking their toll, so it pays to choose materials designed to cope.
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Best Suited To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder coated aluminium | Excellent, rust resistant | Very low, wipe clean | Families and low maintenance gardens |
| Synthetic rattan or wicker | Very good with quality weaves | Low, needs cover in winter | Stylish lounge and dining sets |
| Teak | Outstanding, lasts decades | Low, weathers to silver grey | Investment pieces and classic gardens |
| Hardwood | Good with regular care | Needs annual oiling | Traditional settings |
| Plastic or resin | Moderate | Very low | Tight budgets and occasional use |
Beyond material, focus on comfort and practicality. Deep filled cushions with water resistant covers make lounge sets far more inviting, while removable, washable cushion covers will keep your furniture looking fresh season after season. Check the weight of the furniture too: lightweight aluminium is easy to move around the garden but may need storing in windy spots, while heavier pieces stay put in a breeze. Finally, think about how the style of your outdoor furniture will sit alongside your interior, because creating a sense of flow between your home and garden makes both spaces feel larger and more considered.
How to Choose Outdoor Furniture for Different Spaces
The right furniture depends entirely on the space you have and how you plan to use it. A sprawling lawn calls for something very different from a compact city balcony, so start by being honest about your space and lifestyle.
| Space | Recommended Furniture | Top Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Small balcony or courtyard | Folding bistro set, compact two seater, wall mounted bench | Choose foldable or stackable pieces for flexibility |
| Medium patio | Four to six seat dining set, compact lounge set | Leave space to move chairs back comfortably |
| Large garden | Corner sofa set, large dining table, sun loungers, parasol | Create separate zones for dining and relaxing |
| Covered area or conservatory | Sofa style sets with plush cushions | Plush fabrics are safe here, so prioritise comfort |
For smaller spaces, think vertically and flexibly. A round table takes up less room than a rectangle, benches tuck neatly underneath, and folding chairs can be stored away when not needed. For larger gardens, consider creating distinct zones, with a dining table near the house for convenience and a separate lounge set further out to make the most of the sunshine. Parasols and bases are worth factoring in from the start, as shade makes outdoor furniture usable throughout the day rather than just in the morning and evening.
What to Look for Before Buying Outdoor Furniture
Quality reveals itself in the details, so take a few minutes to inspect any set carefully before buying. Look at the weave on rattan furniture: it should be tight, even and securely fixed. On metal frames, check that welds are smooth and joints feel solid rather than rattly. Cushion covers should specify UV resistance, because fabrics without it fade quickly in summer sun. Ask about the frame thickness as well, since flimsy tubular frames flex and fail long before quality ones.
Practical matters matter just as much as build quality. Find out exactly what the warranty covers and for how long, whether spare cushions or parts are available, and what the delivery service includes. Some retailers offer assembly, which is genuinely worthwhile for larger corner sets.
Outdoor Furniture Buying Checklist
✓ Measure your space, including doorways and gates for access
✓ Confirm the frame material suits your maintenance preferences
✓ Sit on display models to test comfort and cushion depth
✓ Check that cushion covers are removable and washable
✓ Ask exactly what the warranty covers and for how long
✓ Confirm the parasol base weight matches your parasol size
✓ Review delivery timescales and whether assembly is included
✓ Plan where furniture will be stored or how it will be covered in winter
✓ Compare the total cost, including covers, bases and accessories
✓ Read recent customer reviews for honest feedback
Step by Step Guide to Buying Outdoor Furniture
Step One: Measure and map your space. Note the dimensions of your patio or lawn, and mark out the footprint with string or newspaper so you can visualise the set in place. Remember to allow room to pull chairs back and walk around comfortably.
Step Two: Decide how you will use the area. Alfresco dining, lazy lounging and lively entertaining each call for different furniture, and many families blend two or three purposes into one layout.
Step Three: Set a realistic budget. Include accessories such as parasols, bases, covers and storage boxes in your calculations so there are no surprises later.
Step Four: Choose your materials. Match the frame and fabric to your lifestyle, prioritising low maintenance options if you would rather relax than maintain.
Step Five: Research online, then visit the showroom. Build a shortlist from product pages, then come and test the pieces in person. Our team at Evans of High Wycombe is always happy to talk through the options.
Step Six: Confirm the practical details. Check warranty terms, delivery arrangements, assembly options and returns policies before placing your order.
Step Seven: Time your purchase well. Buying at the right moment of the year can save you a significant amount, which brings us neatly to cost.
How Much Does Outdoor Furniture Cost?
Prices vary widely depending on material, size, brand and cushion quality, but the table below gives a realistic picture of what to expect in the current UK market.
| Furniture Type | Typical Price Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Bistro sets | £100 to £400 | Compact two seaters, ideal for small spaces |
| Dining sets | £400 to £2,000 | Four to eight seats, wood, rattan or aluminium |
| Lounge and corner sofa sets | £600 to £3,000 | Deep cushions, generous seating, often with tables |
| Sun loungers | £100 to £800 each | Folding models at lower end, recliners above |
| Parasols and bases | £50 to £400 | Larger cantilever styles cost more |
Rather than chasing the lowest price, aim for the best quality frame your budget allows. Frames last for many years, and cushions, covers and accessories can be upgraded later. A mid range set from a trusted retailer will nearly always outlast a bargain set twice over, making it the cheaper choice in the long run. At Evans of High Wycombe we stock outdoor furniture across a range of price points, and our team can help you find the best value within your budget, including any seasonal offers currently available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Outdoor Furniture
Where is the best place to buy outdoor furniture?
The best place is an established furniture specialist with both a showroom and a strong online presence. A showroom lets you test comfort and inspect quality firsthand, while a good website lets you research at your own pace. Specialists also offer genuine product knowledge, better warranties and proper aftercare, all of which matter with an purchase you expect to last for years.
Is it better to buy outdoor furniture online or in store?
Each has its strengths. Online shopping offers convenience, wider comparison and often lower prices, while buying in store lets you sit on the furniture, feel the fabric quality and get expert advice immediately. The best approach combines both: research and shortlist online, then visit a showroom to confirm your choice before buying. You get the confidence of seeing the furniture with none of the guesswork.
What outdoor furniture lasts the longest?
Teak is the undisputed champion, often lasting twenty five years or more and weathering gracefully to a silver grey. Powder coated aluminium follows closely, typically lasting fifteen years or more with almost no maintenance, while quality synthetic rattan generally gives around eight to ten years of service. Whatever the material, using protective covers and storing cushions indoors over winter will extend the life of any set considerably.
How much should I spend on outdoor furniture?
Let your usage guide you. If you will use the furniture most days through summer, a budget of £600 to £2,000 for a quality dining or lounge set is a sensible investment that pays for itself in years of enjoyment. For occasional use in a small space, a well made bistro set at £150 to £400 is often all you need. Spend most on the frame, since that is the element you cannot easily upgrade later.
When is the best time to buy outdoor furniture?
Late summer and early autumn offer the best prices, as retailers clear stock to make room for winter ranges. You can often save a substantial amount on perfectly good display and warehouse stock. Spring brings the newest designs but usually at full price. If you can plan ahead, buying at the end of the season means your furniture is delivered, assembled and ready long before the first warm weekend arrives.
Final Thoughts
Buying outdoor furniture should be an enjoyable process, and with a little planning it absolutely can be. Measure your space, choose materials that match your lifestyle, test comfort in person and buy from a retailer you trust. That way, your garden becomes a true extension of your home rather than a compromise.
If you are ready to explore quality outdoor furniture alongside our designer sofa and chairs collection, visit the Evans of High Wycombe showroom or browse online today. Our experienced team is here to help you find pieces you will love for many summers to come.
