Al fresco season is upon us. If you’re planning on dining – or entertaining – outdoors, a comfortable and functional space is of the essence. Your outdoor dining space deserves just as much attention as your indoor one, but there are some more considerations involved when you’re looking for products that can be left outside in the elements. It’s worth determining what kind of material works best for you: for example, if you’re not planning to do much rearranging, extra-durable concrete may be the way to go – but if you like to move things around, a light plastic may be better suited for your space. Shop around for the best fit – and keep an eye out for sustainable craftsmanship, which is increasingly becoming a focus in outdoor design.
Whatever your style, budget or preferred material, these patio pieces bring indoor stylings into the great outdoors.
Plastic and Synthetic
Low-maintenance and easy to clean, plastics are usually lightweight – and can be produced with recycled materials.
Coastal Rattan Bistro Chairs (Set of 2),
Anthropologie
Made with a synthetic rattan weave and available in three colours, these whimsical chairs are meant to call to mind the sidewalk cafes of Paris. Also available as counter stools.
$598
Harvest Bar Table,
C.R. Plastic Products
This space-conscious outdoor table is made with 100% recycled materials; built to last with thick plastic “lumber” and UV-stabilized pigments. It’s also made in Canada.
$1,438
Demi Chill Side Table,
Veradek
This functional piece serves as both a side table and a cooler for drinks – with a 40 L ice capacity, it can keep 48 12 oz. cans cool for up to 12 hours.
$135
Indoor/Outdoor Rug,
Safavieh
Add some coziness and personality to your outdoor space with an indoor/outdoor rugs. Safavieh’s are available in multiple styles and patterns, and are made mostly of polypropylene, which is easy to vacuum-clean.
From $38
Vassholmen Chair,
Ikea
The upscale bistro look might be more affordable to achieve than you think. Ikea’s plastic rattan chairs sport a classic black-and-white design – and they’re surprisingly comfy.
$110
Good Company Dining Table,
Loll Designs
This mod dining table (and all of Loll Designs‘ outdoor furniture items) is made with recycled HDPE (high-density polyethylene) from old milk jugs. It comes in nine colours, from neutral shades to bright.
$3,476
Teak and Acacia
Hardwoods like these are resistant to water and insect damage. To err on the safe side, cover them in the winter to preserve the wood.
Vigo Teak Collection,
RH
The new RH Vigo Teak collection was created by Harrison and Nicholas Condos of Sydney, Australia. The frames are artisan-crafted from sustainably harvested premium solid teak with architectural details like parallel slatted legs and bold cushioned bolsters.
From $1,695
Abaco Outdoor Bar Cart,
Crate & Barrel
Making drinks al fresco is easier than ever with Crate’s acacia-wood Abaco Outdoor Bar Cart. With a recessed ice bucket and easy-clean concrete-resin prep surface, this accessory is ideal for bringing the party outdoors.
$749
Rutbeek Coast Umbrella,
Article
Stay cool in style with the Rutbeek umbrella, featuring a solid teak pole and waterproof, UV-resistant shade. (Don’t forget to grab a base for it if you don’t have one.)
$600
Decker Acacia Wood Outdoor Lantern,
Pottery Barn
These beautiful lantern boxes are carved by hand with solid acacia wood, with each piece featuring one-of-a-kind wood grain patterns.
$212
Tola Outdoor Lounge Chair,
Rove Concepts
This sophisticated chair looks like it belongs indoors, but it’s actually designed for the open air – the acacia frame is bolstered by cushions made with a fast-drying UV-resistant outdoor fabric.
From $749
Cielo Fluted Outdoor Dining Table,
Hibou Home
This beautiful table is crafted with a light-coloured teak and has a spacious surface for dining. Start planning your summer tablescapes.
$3,960
Concrete and Ceramic
Extra-durable and damage-resistant, these pieces will stay put and last a lifetime – even in harsh Canadian conditions.
Ceramic Outdoor Table,
Hay
This unique outdoor table was created as part of a collaboration between Hay and Belgian design duo Muller Van Severen. It has a a porcelain tabletop standing on a concrete base and comes in trendy colours like Mint and Bordeaux.
$1,352
Dekko Element Concrete Fire Pit & Cover,
Hauser
This durable fire pit can be stored outdoors all winter with the included protective cover – it’s also available with either a propane or natural gas burner, and comes in finishes Ivory and Slate.
$2,395
Yumi Outdoor Coffee Table,
brand
This striking table is made with fibreglass-reinforced concrete that will stand the test of time. It has a unique oval-shaped surface and comes in white or black.
$1,826
Cami Indoor/Outdoor Ceramic Round Side Table,
West Elm
This decorative ceramic side table is hand-glazed with a high-gloss finish. Ideal for either indoor or outdoor use.
$239
Reign Concrete Rectangular Metal Fire Pit,
Noble House
This affordable rectangular fire pit is perfect for parties; designed to fit as many people seated around it as possible – for socializing or whipping up s’mores.
$383
Terrazzo Concrete Outdoor Stool,
West Elm
West Elm’s Terrazzo furniture adds sleek modernity to any outdoor space. The concrete frames are durable and safe for leaving outdoors all season long, while the neutral speckled finish goes with everything.
$539
Steel, Iron and Aluminum
Metals are usually sturdy and stable without being too weighty. Powder coating allows for a range of colourful finishes.
Navene Blue Outdoor Patio Dining Armchair (Set of 4),
CB2
Add a pop of colour and comfort to your patio with these bright patio chairs, created by German designer Jannis Ellenberger. The blue is inspired by the Mediterranean Sea.
$2,196
Solo Table Lamp,
Must
These aluminum lamps are powered by solar energy (if using outdoors) or a USB charger (for using indoors). They’re designed to be easy to carry around and come in six colour options.
$129
Patio Cooler,
Permasteel
The Permasteel cooler is a classic choice. Featuring both cooling and warming functions – as well as a fun retro design and multiple colour options – lazy days on the patio are guaranteed.
$297
Boon Outdoor Wicker Dining Chair with Metal Legs,
Crate & Barrel
Crate & Barrel’s Boon chairs are made-to-order, so be prepared to wait a month or two. You’ll be glad you did – the contemporary iron-and-wicker chairs are unique yet versatile.
$899
Jolly Trolley,
Fatboy
This aluminum trolley comes equipped with a rechargeable LED lamp, so you can keep the party going after the sun goes down. Choose between Sage, Tangerine and Light Grey.
$1,499
The Clamshell Base,
Business & Pleasure
Business and Pleasure believes even umbrella bases should be stylish, which is why their molded carbon steel one comes in four trendy colours (Dusty Pink, Sage, Antique White and Vintage Black.
