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Business Insider
25-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Business Insider
Heated outdoor furniture exists — and extends patio season to all year long
I've always loved sitting on my patio to work, eat breakfast, or have a drink with a friend, bouncing among several arrangements I've sprinkled about to create my own outdoor oasis, from a rocking chair to a wooden sofa, or metal loungers with cushions. Since I don't have a patio heater, when nights got cold, I had to bundle up in layers or start a fire in my fire pit or chiminea. So, it's not surprising that Outmore Living's heated furniture caught my eye. Outmore Living's heated furniture collection is incredibly unique. As far as I can tell in my research as a freelance writer specializing in home and outdoor products, they're the only brand offering furniture that incorporates heating pads inside outdoor furniture cushions that are powered by batteries, allowing users to place the sofas, chairs, or ottomans wherever they want on their patio or yard. Kevin Long and Alex Duncan co-founded the Austin-based company in 2022, two years after Long had the idea of heated outdoor furniture during Thanksgiving in 2020. The Austin-based company has come a long way from building a prototype in Duncan's living room to the sleek and comfortable outdoor furniture that makes it more desirable to spend more time outside in chilly weather. With weather-resistant properties and five different heating levels, Outmore Living's heated furniture is giving people more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors for far less work than it takes to start a fire and less CO2 emissions than propane heaters emit. When I posted the furniture on my social media, quite a few friends reached out with interest. Those who lived in cooler places, like Alaska, commented how such furniture would make a huge difference in their lives. Among the best places to buy outdoor furniture, Outmore Living is one to watch. Design Outmore Living offers four battery-powered heated furniture pieces — a chair, a loveseat, a 3-seat sofa, and an ottoman. The furniture is stylish and contemporary. Each piece has an FSC-certified teak frame with curved arms, a high back, and square cushions that come in seven different colors. I tested the aloe color. The brand also offers side or coffee tables. The cushions have five layers, consisting of weather- and stain-resistant Sunbrella fabric, a waterproof liner, a carbon fiber heating pad, Dacron fiber (polyester), and high-resiliency memory foam. Outmore Living calls their heating design HeatTech. The back and bottom cushions are connected by locking connectors, which are linked to the power bar mount, located on the underside of the teak frame. Each seat has a port, which the power bar magnetically connects to. It also has a built-in USB-A and USB-C plug to charge your devices.. While the power bar is visible, it is not garishly so. You're able to set your furniture collection anywhere, no power outlet required. As Outmore Living improves its design and technology, it is also committed to sustainability. Rather than needing to replace the furniture in its entirety, the teak frame is built for the long haul. As the company plans to enhance its offerings, you may find yourself considering upgraded HeatTech, replaceable cushions, and other accessories. Outmore Living has also partnered with showrooms and retailers in several states to allow customers to see the furniture in person. It even lists the coffee shops and hotels where its products are utilized if you're nearby. Delivery Outmore Living's heated furniture is made to order and typically ships for free with a white glove delivery service within 2-3 weeks. Unfortunately, Outmore Living happened to be changing their shipping carrier right when I was scheduled to do this review, and because of that, my experience with delivery and set up was different than what most people will experience. Prior to my furniture being delivered, the three batteries were shipped for free in the mail to my house. I did have an issue with one of the batteries not working. It just wouldn't turn on, but the company sent out another the next day with a return label so I could send back the battery for inspection. Having tested a lot of products in the last four years, I know better than most that sometimes batteries just don't work, so I wasn't upset by this at all. It can happen to any company, and Outmore Living was very prompt in its response to rectify the situation. As for the furniture delivery, I was sent notifications by email to set up a delivery date and time. The shipping carrier also gave me a call, granting me the opportunity to choose an earlier date than what I was provided in the email. On the delivery day, two men arrived with the Solerno loveseat and lounge chair. They placed the pre-assembled furniture on my back porch, connected the cushions, and took away all the packaging. The entire delivery lasted less than 20 minutes. Comfort The cushions on the Solerno lounge chair and loveseat are very comfortable. Made of memory foam and covered in Sunbrella fabric, the cushions are a delight to sit on. The fabric is smooth and comfortable on my skin, while the cushions have a medium firm feel, which means they're supportive without being hard or uncomfortable. I sink slightly in, but not too much to make me think the memory foam will break down quickly. I like how wide the lounge chair is, making it a good option for people of various sizes. The 2-seat sofa and the lounge chair are deep with tall backs for ultimate support. Even though they're deep, I can still place my feet on the ground when my backside is set against the back cushion (I'm 5'5" for reference). Sometimes, I'll lie on the loveseat with my head leaning against one arm of the sofa and my feet hanging over the opposite side. Heating Although you can use Outmore Living's furniture year-round, its heating feature is what makes it unique. Its HeatTech system combines a battery heating pad within the cushions to create heated outdoor furniture. A power bar connects to the underside of the teak frame with magnets. There are five heating levels (85°F to 120°F), adjusted via arrows on the power bar. The cushion grows warm within 15-60 seconds (though I usually felt the cushion grow warm within 15-20 seconds). The heated pad does not stretch to every corner of the cushion, though it's quite large and centered along the back and bottom cushion. The highest heating level is toasty. I'd suggest it for deep winter and the fourth highest heating level for cool days in the fall or spring. Because I tested the furniture in May, I usually used the first, second, or third heating level in the early mornings or evenings when it was breezy but not cold. I know I'll find daily use of this sofa come fall and winter. While the power bars are marketed to last up to 10 hours, I experienced a range. At the highest heat setting, the power bar lasted two hours and five minutes. Another time, just 50 minutes, which transparently is not the longest time, but it's enough to enjoy a coffee in the morning or maybe a whisky in the evening. This was after the battery had been charged days earlier and sat in my house fully charged until I was ready to test the heat again. There's little difference between the fourth and fifth heating levels, so to get some longer use out of the power bar, I'd suggest using the fourth heating level if it's particularly cold. At the lowest heat setting, the battery lasted seven hours and 15 minutes one time and two hours and 45 minutes another time. I suspect you'll get the best use out of the battery if you charge the power bar and use it right away. Leave it sitting for a day or two, and it's likely that the charge goes down even if it reads as fully charged. To verify this theory, I charged a power bar and used it the next day, only for it to last six hours and 15 minutes on the lowest heating level. Charging all three batteries takes about 6 hours and 45 minutes. Outmore includes a cord that can charge them simultaneously, or you can use your own USB-A or USB-C cables. I did have a bit of an issue with the heating capabilities. Upon first testing, one cushion initially stopped heating after 30 minutes but worked again after moving the cushions around and reconnecting. Later, the sofa's power bars paused with no warning — lights froze and heat stopped. Swapping the bars helped one side, but the other didn't resume heating. The chair's power bar also shut off unexpectedly but worked again after restarting. I don't know why I experienced these glitches at some points during testing and not during others. As far as I can tell, you don't need to be sitting on the furniture for the power bar to work. While the glitches are not great, the likelihood of my sitting on this furniture for more than three hours at a time is slim, and I'm confident the battery power can last for at least three hours at the third and fourth heat levels. Outmore Living responded quickly to my issues, and I expect continued improvements with future models. Durability After three weeks of testing the Solerno 2-seat sofa and chair on my uncovered porch during a particularly rainy Texas May, I've gotten a good sense of their durability. I covered them with a tarp to protect them when not in use, though some moisture and dirt still got through. Thankfully, the cushions dried quickly and were easy to clean, as was the teak frame. The FSC-certified teak feels sturdy and, with proper care, could last decades. The medium-firm memory foam cushions also appear well-made, though like all foam, their longevity will depend on usage and care. I plan to store the cushions when not in use to extend their life. The Sunbrella fabric might be resistant to water, stains, and UV rays, but that doesn't mean that water won't be absorbed by the cushions, which could affect the memory foam in the long run. While the HeatTech is impressive, its long-term durability is unclear. The power bars and HeatTech pads have relatively short warranties (one and two years), so I'm storing the power bars indoors when not in use for extra protection. Returns and warranty Outmore Living allows returns within 45 days. However, there is a 20% return fee and the cost of shipping. For instance, the Solerno Heated 2-Seat sofa set return fee would be $1,750 (which is 20% of its $8,750 price tag). While steep, the return fee is understandable for made-to-order furniture. Different parts of the furniture have different warranties. The power bars only have a one-year warranty, while the HeatTech heating pads are covered under a 2-year warranty. The teak frames are covered under a 3-year warranty, while the cushion covers and foam inserts have a 5-year warranty. The teak frame and cover warranties are average, if not better, than most warranties for outdoor furniture. However, I would prefer a longer warranty for the power bars and heating pads, only because technology such as these can be finicky, and I think it would be nice to have them covered for much longer than one to two years. For reference, if a power bar dies after a year, a replacement is $400. Cons to consider While the HeatTech technology is impressive, customers should be prepared that the battery life is not always consistent, and glitches can occur. In my testing, the longest a power bar lasted was a little over 7 hours on the lowest heat setting and as short as 50 minutes on the highest heat setting. It doesn't help that the power bars take over 6 hours to charge. Add on the fact that the power bar warranty is only one year, and it's a little unclear how durable the power bars are. I appreciate that Outmore Living offers free white glove delivery, but unfortunately, if you want to return the product, it's going to cost a pretty high fee. In fact, Outmore Living charges 20% of the cost of the product plus a shipping fee. This makes sense in some ways, considering that their furniture is all made upon ordering, but that aside, you should probably be completely sure of your purchase before investing in this product. What are your alternatives? If you're looking for other brands that sell outdoor heated furniture, you'll be disappointed to discover that there is likely only one other company with a similar offering. Galanter & Jones' Kosmos Collection is very modern in style with a molded cast stone construction, but lacks the plush cushions that Outmore Living has. It has to be plugged into an outlet for its heating element, with a cord that ultimately limits where you can place the Kosmos Chair or Lounge. However, it is slightly more affordable than Outmore Living's heated furniture collection. Of course, you can always enjoy high-quality outdoor furniture without heating elements like those offered by Polywood, which offers sustainable HDPE furniture that mimics the look of wood. The 6-piece deep-seated Acadia Lounge Sofa Set is equally as comfortable as Outmore Living's, and you have a lot more choices in terms of the designs and cushion colors. Though Polywood's collections are considered luxury buys, they're still more affordable than the Solerno Set, which comes with three pieces rather than the six that are included in the Acadia Lounge Sofa Set. You can see our full review of our experience with Polywood. Burrow also offers some great outdoor furniture options, like the modular Burrow Relay 4-piece Outdoor Sofa Set. The set is moderately priced, easy to put together, and has comfortable cushions. If only the cushion covers could be thrown in the wash. The frame of the set we tested is made of galvanized steel, but they do offer a teak design, too. The bottom line There is no doubt that Outmore Living has created a stylish outdoor furniture collection that is water-resistant, comfortable, and built to last. Their ingenious design — using batteries to heat cushions — is a gamechanger for those living in cold areas or buyers who simply want to enjoy the outdoors year-round without needing a propane heater or roaring fire. The battery life of the power bars is not consistent, but I'll take them over a corded design that limits where I can place my outdoor furniture. A high price tag is surely going to make customers pause, but if they take a leap of faith, they'll likely discover that they'll be using Outmore Living's heated outdoor furniture quite often (even despite some occasional glitches).


Time of India
24-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
10 genius yard hacks to keep nosy neighbors from peeking in
People seek solace in their backyards. Privacy becomes a concern due to overlooking neighbors. Solutions exist to safeguard your space. Hedges and privacy screens offer immediate barriers. Outdoor curtains and shade sails disrupt views. Bamboo in containers and sleek fences provide stylish options. Climbing vines and container gardens create natural screens. These methods ensure your yard remains private. There are several ways through which you can protect your privacy using smart ways, quick fixes, and long‑term solutions, so your yard stays yours forever. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Here are different ways to keep neighbors and onlookers away Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads People often find their comfort in their backyards, which allows them to unwind and relax. But at times, it becomes a stage for neighbors and onlookers who try to steal your privacy. In many neighborhoods, however, houses are built on slopes or have second-story decks that overlook your space. But now there is no reason to worry, as there are several ways through which you can protect your privacy using smart ways, quick fixes, and long‑term solutions, so your yard stays yours forever.A hedge is like nature's privacy fence that keeps giving. Boxwoods and arborvitae stay dense even in colder months, and when planted in staggered rows, they fill gaps faster. They require patience and pruning, but eventually, you get a green wall that cools the area and blocks unwanted views.A quality privacy screen acts like an instant backstage curtain for your patio. There are plenty of options in wood, resin, or metal, and many include built-in planters. Since they're freestanding, you can move them around as you change your yard or take them with you if you fabrics like Sunbrella make a breezy barrier when hung over a pergola or frame. Close them to block unwanted views, then open them when you want more light. They also add a soft, relaxed feel to your a shade sail overhead does more than block sunlight. It also disrupts views from second-floor windows or nearby elevated patios. Shade sails come in bright colors and subtle neutrals, and you can layer two or three for added breeze blocks add a retro feel while effectively providing privacy. They're often used to border a patio and block unwanted views. Cement and terracotta types withstand heat and look great paired with drought-tolerant plants like succulents or grasses like pampas or fountain grass grow quickly and sway beautifully in the breeze. By midseason, many are high enough to provide privacy for a seating area or pool. They require little maintenance beyond an annual trim and bring movement and texture that a regular fence can't a pergola where neighbors can see it shifts their entire view. Even a small structure with lattice slats blocks sightlines from above. Add climbing vines or fabric for more coverage. Remember to check local building codes, since some places require a certain distance from property up tall containers and fill them with elephant ears or other leafy plants to create a movable wall. The extra height from the containers means even shorter plants provide added privacy.A lattice trellis is basic but works well. Attach one to a deck or walkway and let fast-growing vines like clematis or jasmine climb through. With time, the greenery fills in. It's also one of the most affordable ways to add grows dense and tall, but planting it straight into the ground can make it spread throughout your yard. Use heavy planters to control the roots while still getting a leafy screen. Clumping varieties like Fargesia are less invasive and can handle colder can be interesting. Horizontal cedar slats, stained vinyl, or composite panels add a modern touch while still providing privacy. Most local codes permit six-foot fences, but some allow up to gazebos and canopies feature roll-down sides or optional screens, giving you control over how enclosed the space feels. They're perfect for outdoor dinners or reading nooks, and since they're freestanding, you can remove them whenever you vines transform basic structures into natural curtains. Bougainvillea brings bright flowers in warm areas, while star jasmine has glossy leaves and a sweet scent. Train them on fences, pergolas, or trellises, and they'll create a leafy wall over elephant ears, and tall herbs like rosemary add vertical interest while blocking views from next door. The best part is you can move the pots around until you find the perfect spot for both coverage and style.A mix of shrubs offers privacy without appearing too uniform or rigid. Serviceberry, viburnum, and holly grow dense enough to screen and provide seasonal color and berries for birds. Mixing them gives you layers of texture and fresh views year-round.
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Spring-ready outdoor furniture that can transform your deck and yard
Fox News and its syndication partners may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom. Whether you live in the Northeast, West Coast or anywhere in between, transforming your outdoor spaces into a hosting haven is essential for memorable spring and summer gatherings. Thoughtfully selected outdoor furniture enhances the appeal of your patio or deck and provides the comfort and functionality needed for entertaining guests. Modular furniture and water-resistant materials are gaining popularity, offering versatility and durability to suit various outdoor settings and climates. To assist you in curating the perfect outdoor retreat, here are 10 furniture pieces that combine style, comfort and practicality to elevate your outdoor living experience. Most parties involve food, so an outdoor dining set that accommodates multiple guests is a must. This Mainstays 7-piece set at Walmart includes a tempered glass-top table and six stackable chairs, all with durable steel frames and a weather-resistant finish. The neutral tones complement various outdoor themes and its stackable chairs offer convenient storage options for the off-season. Consider this outdoor dining set if you prefer resin over metal, which potentially involves less maintenance depending on your situation. 11 Lightweight Backpacks That Are Perfect For Day Hikes A sectional couch is a popular indoor choice, so why not get one for your outdoor space too? This modular sectional by Birch Lane at Wayfair features handwoven resin wicker over a rust-free aluminum frame, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements. The Sunbrella cushions provide comfort and have fade-resistant properties. Its modular design allows for customizable configurations to fit your space. If its price tag is above your budget, consider this similar set from Costway at Walmart for under $1,000. Don't forget to grab an umbrella too! Many consider Adirondack chairs a backyard staple, especially around a fire pit. Crafted from recycled plastic lumber, this Adirondack chair offers the timeless appeal of wood without the maintenance. It's resistant to various weather conditions, including rain and sun, ensuring durability. The folding feature allows for easy storage and portability. Read On The Fox News App If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today. This expansive Hampton Bay offset umbrella at Home Depot provides ample shade and features built-in solar-powered LED lights to enhance evening ambiance. Its cantilever design allows for versatile placement without obstructing the seating area and the durable aluminum frame helps it withstand wind. If your mind is on accessories, you might also consider picking up a resin storage box for storing cushions, throw pillows, outdoor toys and whatever else you might need, like a colorful indoor/outdoor rug! 10 Products To Take Care Of Your Indoor Plants In The Spring You'll likely always need extra chairs if your guest count exceeds what your table allows. These Style Selections Pelham Bay stackable chairs are space-saving and feature a rust-resistant steel frame and a comfortable sling seat. Their neutral design complements various table styles, making them a versatile addition to any outdoor dining setup. Also, if you want a more casual setup, you can put the chairs around this Style Selections coffee table, add an end table or two. This budget-friendly set by Mainstays at Walmart includes a table, four folding chairs and an umbrella, offering a complete dining solution for smaller spaces for around $100. The steel frames and weather-resistant materials ensure durability, while the folding chairs provide easy storage options. And it comes in several different colors if you're looking for a more colorful option! If you prefer the earthy and chic look of rattan instead, check out this Costway set, which is more expensive but delivers a refined look. This sleek sectional by AllModern at Wayfair features thick cushions and bold lines, offering both comfort and a modern feel. The Sunbrella cushions are known for their durability and resistance to fading, making them a reliable choice for outdoor use. You can customize the configuration of this couch to suit your outdoor space best. What is the best accent for your fancy new sectional? These colorful outdoor throw cushions! They're waterproof and a set of four is under $20 on Amazon. These 8 Trending Outfits Are Perfect For Your Spring Wardrobe This stylish wicker egg chair adds a contemporary and cozy touch to any outdoor space. Made with weather-resistant wicker and a sturdy steel frame, it includes plush cushions for maximum comfort. Its unique design creates a cozy nook for relaxation. Add an ottoman to kick your feet up for the ultimate backyard lounging experience! Bring your own book and beverage. Love the comfort of a sectional and the functionality of a dining set, but don't have space for both? This versatile set at Walmart includes a sectional sofa, dining table and two ottomans in durable wicker. The sectional provides ample seating with plush cushions for comfort, while the ottomans offer additional seating or can serve as footrests. The dining table features a tempered glass top, making it easy to clean and perfect for outdoor meals. This set's modular design allows various configurations to suit your space and entertaining needs. An offset umbrella is the ideal complement; you can even add a heat lamp for chilly nights! For more deals, visit Enhance your outdoor gatherings by huddling around this smokeless fire pit, designed to provide warmth and ambiance without the hassle and mess of traditional fire pits. Its compact size makes it suitable for various outdoor spaces and the included stand ensures safety on different surfaces. Don't forget the S'mores kit!Original article source: Spring-ready outdoor furniture that can transform your deck and yard


Scoop
09-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scoop
How To Choose The Right Outdoor Furniture For NZ Conditions
Press Release – Fabric Digital When you live in New Zealand, your outdoor space becomes a special part of your home. It's where you spend warm summer days with family, enjoy evening BBQs, and relax on quiet the Kiwi weather isn't always gentle. Strong sun, rain showers, and coastal winds can be tough on outdoor furniture. Choosing the right furniture that's not only stylish but durable enough to handle our unique climate is essential. First, think about the materials. Outdoor furniture in NZ should be made from materials that won't fade, rust, or wear down quickly. Teak is a popular choice because it's tough, long-lasting, and looks great even after many years. Aluminium furniture is another good option. It's lightweight, won't rust easily, and is perfect if you need something sturdy that you can move around easily. For fabric parts like cushions or umbrellas, look for weather-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella. These are specially designed to handle strong sunlight without fading and to dry quickly after the rain. Next, consider how you use your outdoor space. Do you mostly entertain friends and family, or is your outdoor area a quiet retreat just for you? Modular outdoor lounge sets are excellent if you often host gatherings because you can rearrange them to suit different events. Dining tables and chairs made from durable materials like teak or aluminium make great choices if you frequently enjoy meals outside. If relaxation is your main goal, comfy sun loungers or outdoor recliners are perfect for lazy summer afternoons. It's also important to think about your local weather conditions. Coastal areas, like many in New Zealand, need furniture that can handle salty sea air without rusting or degrading. Powder-coated aluminium or specially treated stainless steel are excellent options here. For those living in regions with heavy rainfall, furniture with quick-draining designs and waterproof cushions is essential. This ensures your furniture lasts longer and stays looking great. Style and comfort should never be overlooked. The good news is, you don't have to compromise on either. Many NZ furniture stores offer contemporary, stylish designs made for outdoor comfort. Brands like Tribù and Cane-line, available locally at stores like Poynters, offer modern designs that are both comfortable and weather-resistant. Whether you prefer classic wooden looks or sleek, modern metal designs, you'll find something that suits your home perfectly. Don't forget about maintenance. Good-quality outdoor furniture usually requires minimal upkeep, but occasional cleaning and protection will help it last even longer. Teak furniture, for example, may need oiling once or twice a year to maintain its rich colour. Aluminium furniture can simply be washed down with soap and water occasionally to remove dirt and residue. When shopping, always test furniture in-store if possible. Comfort is personal, so sitting in chairs or lounging on sofas before you buy can make a big difference. Visiting a large showroom like Poynters in Auckland allows you to see and feel the quality for yourself, making your final choice easier. Consider storage and protection during off-seasons. Even the toughest outdoor furniture benefits from being stored or covered during winter. If storage space is tight, look for furniture that folds or stacks neatly. Protective covers designed for your specific furniture items will help them last even longer and reduce the time needed to get them ready again next season. Choosing outdoor furniture for New Zealand conditions isn't complicated if you keep these simple tips in mind. Focus on durable materials, consider your specific weather conditions, choose styles that suit your lifestyle, and remember to test for comfort. By doing this, you'll create an inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed for many years.


Scoop
09-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scoop
How To Choose The Right Outdoor Furniture For NZ Conditions
Press Release – Fabric Digital When shopping, always test furniture in-store if possible. Comfort is personal, so sitting in chairs or lounging on sofas before you buy can make a big difference. When you live in New Zealand, your outdoor space becomes a special part of your home. It's where you spend warm summer days with family, enjoy evening BBQs, and relax on quiet weekends. But the Kiwi weather isn't always gentle. Strong sun, rain showers, and coastal winds can be tough on outdoor furniture. Choosing the right furniture that's not only stylish but durable enough to handle our unique climate is essential. First, think about the materials. Outdoor furniture in NZ should be made from materials that won't fade, rust, or wear down quickly. Teak is a popular choice because it's tough, long-lasting, and looks great even after many years. Aluminium furniture is another good option. It's lightweight, won't rust easily, and is perfect if you need something sturdy that you can move around easily. For fabric parts like cushions or umbrellas, look for weather-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella. These are specially designed to handle strong sunlight without fading and to dry quickly after the rain. Next, consider how you use your outdoor space. Do you mostly entertain friends and family, or is your outdoor area a quiet retreat just for you? Modular outdoor lounge sets are excellent if you often host gatherings because you can rearrange them to suit different events. Dining tables and chairs made from durable materials like teak or aluminium make great choices if you frequently enjoy meals outside. If relaxation is your main goal, comfy sun loungers or outdoor recliners are perfect for lazy summer afternoons. It's also important to think about your local weather conditions. Coastal areas, like many in New Zealand, need furniture that can handle salty sea air without rusting or degrading. Powder-coated aluminium or specially treated stainless steel are excellent options here. For those living in regions with heavy rainfall, furniture with quick-draining designs and waterproof cushions is essential. This ensures your furniture lasts longer and stays looking great. Style and comfort should never be overlooked. The good news is, you don't have to compromise on either. Many NZ furniture stores offer contemporary, stylish designs made for outdoor comfort. Brands like Tribù and Cane-line, available locally at stores like Poynters, offer modern designs that are both comfortable and weather-resistant. Whether you prefer classic wooden looks or sleek, modern metal designs, you'll find something that suits your home perfectly. Don't forget about maintenance. Good-quality outdoor furniture usually requires minimal upkeep, but occasional cleaning and protection will help it last even longer. Teak furniture, for example, may need oiling once or twice a year to maintain its rich colour. Aluminium furniture can simply be washed down with soap and water occasionally to remove dirt and residue. When shopping, always test furniture in-store if possible. Comfort is personal, so sitting in chairs or lounging on sofas before you buy can make a big difference. Visiting a large showroom like Poynters in Auckland allows you to see and feel the quality for yourself, making your final choice easier. Consider storage and protection during off-seasons. Even the toughest outdoor furniture benefits from being stored or covered during winter. If storage space is tight, look for furniture that folds or stacks neatly. Protective covers designed for your specific furniture items will help them last even longer and reduce the time needed to get them ready again next season. Choosing outdoor furniture for New Zealand conditions isn't complicated if you keep these simple tips in mind. Focus on durable materials, consider your specific weather conditions, choose styles that suit your lifestyle, and remember to test for comfort. By doing this, you'll create an inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed for many years.