When it comes to furnishing your outdoor space, comfort is key. From cozy lounge chairs to useful sectionals and cool daybeds, new furnishings can turn your outdoor area into a sanctuary for relaxation or the ideal spot for entertaining and hosting. Shopping for outdoor furniture is no easy feat; considering all the options on the market, it can be an overwhelming task. To help you find the perfect outdoor furniture for your home, we enlisted the help of interior design expert Julie Brayton, principal and cofounder of Brayton Interiors.
If you're looking to revamp your whole backyard from scratch, Brayton recommends starting with outdoor lighting, which can immediately make the area more inviting. Then, she suggests figuring out how you'll be using the space. "If it's you and a partner, I would start with a small bistro table and two chairs to enjoy coffee or dinner outside," she says. "If you've got a family who loves to eat outside or someone who likes entertaining outside, go with a dining table and chairs and or a bench." Outdoor Garden Table And Chair Set
To help determine which outdoor furniture pieces to invest in, consider the arrangement first. Brayton likes to create different seating zones. "Depending on what your space looks like, a place for dining will likely be the first area to appear, and then perhaps it's a two-seater bench at the end of your patio or yard, or behind your dining table," she says. "Maybe two deeper lounge chairs show up in an opposite part of the space."
She also advises picking furniture that matches your home's architecture, as well as the style of your interiors, including color scheme, furniture shapes, and materials. Whether your home leans contemporary and modern or has a more rustic and bohemian vibe, it's best to choose outdoor furniture that reflects that aesthetic so your entire home flows together.
In terms of material, she suggests pieces made with wicker, iron, and teak. As Brayton points out, outdoor furniture will likely develop a patina over time, which we shouldn't be afraid to embrace because it adds charm and shows depth. She also loves incorporating upholstery and textiles to soften up the space. "Seasonally, you can switch out blankets or pillows to make seating more comfortable," she says. However, she recommends using covers and outdoor storage to protect fabrics from weather, staining, and sun-bleaching.
"Big-box retailers have some great looking outdoor pieces," Brayton says. Stores like Amazon, Target, and Wayfair sell plenty of options that vary in design and price points. We're also fond of outdoor collections from West Elm, Article, and Castlery.
Ahead, we curated the best, most comfortable outdoor furniture pieces on the market for a stylish oasis in your backyard — no matter the time of year.
A contemporary setup doesn't mean it lacks in comfort, especially with these Solaste Patio Metal Armchairs. Made with all-weather aluminum, these durable yet sleek chairs are perfect for adding extra seating in your backyard space. The cushions are extra thick for a seat you can sink into and unwind in. You can even unzip the cushion covers and throw them in the wash for a quick refresh.
Verano Garden 3-Piece Patio Bistro Set ($170, originally $180)
This outdoor wicker conversation set is such a cute addition to any small space or cornered section. Made with faux-rattan and PE wicker, the chairs have a breezy, boho vibe that's sure to liven up your backyard. Not only do the black cushions offer a contrast for a more modern flair, but they also have a plush and noticeably comfortable feel. The small side table has a tempered glass topper that adds a more elegant flair, as well. You can also get the five-piece set, which features a pair of footrests.
Greesum 3-Piece Rocking Wicker Bistro Set ($130)
Looking to create a cute bistro setup in a smaller area? The Greesum Rocking Wicker Bistro Set is a chic, modern set that comes with its own little glass table. Made out of rust-resistant metal and all-weather-proof rattan, the two rocking chairs are perfect for relaxation.
Yitahome 7-Piece Garden Conversation Wicker Sofa Set ($430, originally $503)
Modular pieces are ideal for anyone who frequently changes the setup of their space. This seven-piece set from Yitahome comes with four single, armless chairs and two corner chairs you can combine to create a couch or sectional. It also comes with a coffee table with a tempered glass top and protective cover. The beige cushioning and dark-brown wicker complement a wide variety of spaces.
Best Choice Products Wicker Egg Chair ($375)
For a truly breezy feel in your backyard, an oversize wicker egg chair is a must-have essential. This one comes with four plush cushions that offer all the lounge-worthy comfort you could ask for. It adds a bohemian touch to your space, transforming it into an oasis. Plus, this chair is something you can use for years to come since it's durable and water-resistant.
Pamapic 5 Pieces Wicker Patio Furniture Set ($335)
If you're looking for a cozy bistro set for your outdoor space, the Pamapic Wicker Patio Furniture Set has deep chairs and soft, sponge-padded cushions. It comes with two ottomans that can slide underneath each chair, so you get extra leg room without taking up space. You can utilize the set in a small space or move the pieces around for extra seating. It also comes with a small coffee table that has storage space underneath.
Signature Design by Ashley Clare View Coastal Outdoor Patio Eucalyptus Sofa ($1,030)
If you're in the market for a comfortable sofa that'll make your space feel like a coastal vacation, the Signature Design by Ashley Clare View Coastal Outdoor Patio Eucalyptus Sofa will give your outdoor patio a more refined look. Made with eucalyptus wood, this sofa has a rustic flair that will give your backyard a casual yet cool vibe. It's light and airy, perfect for exuding comfort and coziness. If you love a neutral vibe, this is definitely something you should consider.
East Oak Patio Furniture Set ($630)
Recommended for midcentury-modern homes, this East Oak Patio Furniture Set is a durable option made with weather- and rust-resistant metal. This set — which includes a loveseat, two accent chairs, and a coffee table — is lightweight, so you can easily move it around your space. This set has deep-seated cushions that feel plush but also maintain their shape.
Hanover Strathmere 6-Piece Wicker Patio Furniture Set ($1,399, originally $1,999)
Add something statement-making to your backyard with this colorful Hanover Strathmere 6-Piece Wicker Patio Furniture Set. Featuring a loveseat, two chairs, two ottomans, a glass-top coffee table, and accent pillows, this all-inclusive set will give your patio some much-needed personality. The plush cushions come in a variety of bright colors like green, red, and ocean blue.
Grand Patio Outdoor 4-Piece Furniture Sofa Set ($1,200)
The Grand Patio set comes with two stationary rockers, a love seat, and a coffee table. The seating offers plush comfort with a wide and roomy capacity and thick olefin cushions. This entire set is waterproof, UV resistant, and fade-resistant, as well. If you're in the market for something that gives you the comfort of a rocking chair but with a contemporary design, this is a great option.
The Latigo Patio Sectional is a boho piece that can seat up to three. The all-weather wicker sectional has a dark contrasting design that will give your space character and texture. It comes with bright, easy-clean pillows as well.
Article Lubek Slate Gray Sectional Set ($2,611)
Level up the way you're lounging with the Lubek Sectional Set. You can host guests or lay by the pool by yourself with this seating. As Brayton mentions, if you're looking to create a seating zone in your backyard, this L-shaped sectional and coffee table set does the job for you. It comes in two colors — slate gray, which is great for an industrial or contemporary home, and beach sand for a more rustic home.
Castlery Sierra 2 Lounge Chairs with Coffee Table Set ($1,729, originally $1,997)
Turn your space into a sanctuary with the Castlery's Sierra Set. This set features two lounge chairs that come with plump cushions and deep seating as well as a coffee table that has a simple design to display cheeseboards, coffee, and other refreshments.
If you're looking for an option with more seating, get the Sierra Sofa, 2 Lounge Chairs & Coffee Table Set ($3,039, originally $3,796).
Castlery Sorrento Dining Table with 6 Riley Chairs ($1,499, originally $2,098)
Entertain like a pro with the Sorrento Dining Table and six Riley Chairs. If your home is modern with a splash of farmhouse inspiration, this outdoor dining set is a fitting choice. The table has an aluminum frame with a resin-wood slat-top, and the wicker seats come with foam-filled cushioning.
Castlery Sorrento L-Shape Sectional Sofa ($1,899, originally $2,539)
The Castlery Sorrento L-Shape Sectional Sofa is a five-to-six-seater sectional fit for a modern space. The seats are relaxed and laid-back, while its sleek design will make any outdoor area look elevated and refined.
West Elm Toluca Outdoor Sofa ($1,330, originally $1,899)
The 90-inch Toluca outdoor sofa is a gorgeous piece that brings a minimalist vibe to your outdoor space. It's made with a durable, fade-resistant all-weather wicker, which is something Brayton recommends. It also has cloud-like cushions for all-day comfort. Although it may look high-maintenance, its zip-off covers make it pretty easy to care for.
Yardbird Winnie Outdoor Teak Sofa Set ($4,910)
Small Outdoor Corner Sofa Create a designated seating zone per Brayton's suggestion with the Winnie Outdoor Teak Sofa Set from Yardbird. Crafted from a moisture-resistant teak wood, the set comes with a three-seater sofa, a coffee table, two accent chairs, and all-weather cushions. Its slatted design is open and airy, making it ideal for a smaller space. If you're going for a coastal or nautical aesthetic, go for the navy-blue cushions. Opting for something timeless? The natural, off-white cushions are perfect for every home.