THE ART OF GARDEN FURNITURE

Garden furniture

It's no secret that I love gardens, but I do have quite a number of bugbears. OK, that's not strictly true; it's more that I can be quite opinionated. I know exactly what I like (when I see it), and believe that when it comes to any subject remotely related to horticulture I am always right! Of course, if my wife is with me then she is right (but I am always right to bring her along).

Amazing garden furniture

Gardening is expensive, plants are expensive and getting someone in to landscape your garden is even more expensive. We all know that right minded people can spend an enormous amount of hard cash on their garden. They have done so for centuries, and hopefully will continue to do so.

My issue is this. Once the garden is finished and the money all gone, only then do most people consider purchasing garden furniture. As this is far too late there is usually not enough garden space set aside to take a decent set of furniture and there is no viewpoint from which to admire it. But that isn't the worst of it.

Cheap furniture in an expensive garden is a crime against horticulture, perhaps even humanity! Do not pretend that you are only buying cheap now so that you have something usable whilst you save up for the good stuff, because you won't. On average most families will buy no more than two furniture sets in their lives.

If your garden is themed then purchase furniture that matches, as it will both lift and enhance the garden. Its sounds obvious but make sure that your ‘furniture-to-be’ is comfortable. Just looking good is not enough.

Amazing garden furniture

Be aware that there is a large choice of materials and a massive range of designs, not all of which are practical or fit for purpose!

A good example of this is the wagon wheel bench on the left: 

IT IS THE MOST UNCOMFORTABLE CHAIR I HAVE EVER HAD THE DISPLEASURE TO SIT ON!

Yes, it is attractive, and yes it is environmentally friendly because it is all made from reclaimed timber (if you ignore the environmental cost of shipping it over from the Far East) but a seat it is not. It is art.

There are a few rules to abide by when purchasing garden furniture.

1. Cheap furniture cheapens the garden.
2. Assess the quality of the furniture and its maintenance requirements.
3. Ensure the style of furniture compliments your garden. 
4. You can generally get a better deal if you purchase furniture August onwards.
5. Always do your research. 

The most obvious garden furniture outlet for you to begin your search in will be a well-stocked garden centre as they should have on display a decent range of furniture. It will allow you to select the style of furniture you would like, as well as giving you an indication of the scale of the furniture and its quality. However they do not offer the most competitive prices. Do not buy garden furniture online until you have researched the brands and are happy with the quality. If you are not sure, go back and check the rules!

For related articles click onto the following links:
FENCE PANELS FOR YOUR GARDEN
THE ART OF GARDEN FURNITURE
SHEDS - NECESSARY EVIL OR GARDEN ENHANCER?