Best garden furniture 2021: tables, chairs and accessories to make your space an outdoor paradise
With the arrival of spring/ summer (better late than never), we’ve never been more aware of our outside space. The time has come to get it ready to shine in the weeks and months ahead.
There’s nothing more soul-soothing than eating alfresco on a balmy, blue-skied day and - whether you’re eating as a pair, solo, or with the whole crew - there’s an outdoor dining set to suit everyone. Cox & Cox is great click-stop for Scandi chic, while Garden Trading has a particularly cool high table and benches for anyone missing those pub vibes. Over at Rust Collections, you’ll find on-trend industrial concrete outdoor tables that are the perfect blend of funky and functional.
Experts in the art of lounging should head to the likes of Very and Maisons du Monde for super-stylish sofa and lounge sets, while Studio’s bestselling hanging chair is back for 2021.
Is your outdoor space more bijou balcony than vast, sprawling garden? There’s small but perfectly formed bistro sets at John Lewis, Habitat and Dobbies that can add a colour-punch to your morning coffee, as well as an ultra-cute bench set for two.
So, whether you have a small but perfectly-formed patio or a big back yard, we’ve got you - and your outdoor space - covered.
In the words of George Michael, “Let’s go outside…”
Dining Table Sets
Cox & Cox Ravenna dining set rectangular
Scandi-meets-beach chic with this super-cool laidback luxe dining set from Cox & Cox. The acacia wood is finished with a bleached-out whitewash for that nautical vibe. The slatted top is ideal for an outdoor table and the two benches come with a comfy cushion for snug, padded posteriors. The perfect spot to sit with family and friends post-lockdown and enjoy a summer-ready rosé… or three. Hic.
Rust Collections Xavier concrete table and bench
Inject some industrial cool into your garden with this ultra-stylish concrete outdoor dining table and bench. The glass reinforced concrete is solid yet lightweight, and the table top is smooth but full of character. What’s more, it’s weather-resistant and easily wipeable, making it a practical addition to your outdoor living set-up. The leg frames can also be powder coated in any colour you like. Funky, functional, top-quality and super-sociable.
Studio 8-piece patio set with parasol
On a budget but don’t want to compromise on style? This six-seater patio set is a fantastic option - and even comes with the parasol included. Enjoy everything from balmy lunches al fresco and fun family barbecues, to a morning cuppa at sunrise - all at a great-value price point.
Made Jala Garden Dining Set, Acacia Wood and Black
Nordic-inspired, this traditional-style slatted garden dining table gets a modern makeover with cool woven black seats. It’s not just a pretty face though - the chairs tuck under the table nicely when not in use, and are also stackable for extra convenience. The acacia wood has a lovely, earthy tone, creating an ambient spot for garden parties that stretch late into the night.
Argos Home Richmond 6 Seater Wooden Patio Set - Grey
When the weather is on-side, eating outside is the only way to enjoy mealtimes. Take the ceiling off your dining room by transporting it outside - this six-seater patio set has plenty of space for everyone to sit around the table. Made from solid FSC certified wood there are two benches and two stackable armchairs positioned around the table, which measures H70 x W90 x L140cm.
Bistro Sets
Habitat Trough 2 seater bistro set, green
Garden or balcony spatially challenged? Don’t panic, there’s a perfect bistro set out there for everyone. And this brilliant trough design is a bit of a belter. We love how the industrial-chic steel is softened with an on-trend cottagecore sage green colour for a pretty piece that’s also modern. The trough has pin holes so you can pop plants or flowers in there, or simply use it to put your water jug (or beer) and a cool retro radio. It’s the ideal spot to chew the fat with a friend at cocktail o’clock. And, when everyone’s gone home or the weather takes a turn, you can easily fold it up and put it in storage.
Dobbies Freya bistro set in yellow
Hello, sunshine! This beautiful colour-popping yellow bistro set will liven up any outdoor space, whether it’s a compact balcony or little nook on the patio or garden. The chic set is foldable and convenient as well as joyful, bright and bold. It’s sure to be your new happy-boosting hotspot. And the price? Pretty perfect.
John Lewis Emu Arc En Ciel steel garden bistro table and chairs set
There’s a trend for furniture hues inspired by nature sweeping the nation. This beautiful ocean-blue bistro set will add a pop of colour to your outdoor living space, while bringing a calming, relaxed feel. The steel frame is treated to make it weather and scratch-resistant, and the compact set folds away for maximum convenience. A prime morning spot for you and your teapot.
Sun Loungers and Seating
Maisons du Monde Oleron solid teak garden sun lounger on wheels
Cool, country stripes will always be on-trend, and we love the timeless chic of this high-quality teak sun lounger. Not only does it comes with an ultra-comfy cushion, but it’s also on wheels so you can easily move it around while you’re chasing the sun. The handy recliner positions mean you can sit up or lie back depending on if you’re reading or snoozing, and the hidden sliding glass shelf is cleverly concealed until you need it for a coffee (or cocktail!) break. Grab your sunhat and put your feet up.
Studio Deluxe hanging chair
This bestselling hanging chair quite literally flew off the shelves, so now is the time to pre-order if you don’t want to miss out again this year. It manages to combine a purse-happy price with on-trend style, and features a weather-resistant powder coated frame with a rattan-effect body. Whether you’re reading, meditating, relaxing, or enjoying a little tipple, it will be your favourite new perma-hangout.
Maisons du Monde Split deckchair in blue metal and blue plastic-coated canvas
Create a laidback beach-worthy vibe in your back garden or balcony with this high-quality deck chair in a gorgeous, rich teal hue. The four-position adjustable tilt makes it a versatile piece for snoozing or socialising, and the rain-proof plastic-coated canvas offers easy maintenance. Just pull up a pew.
Studio Rattan-effect tete-a-tete love seat
How cute is this love seat à deux? It’s the ideal outdoor seating solution for a compact balcony or small patio and, thanks to the handy central glass table, offers a stylish hotspot for everything from a chinwag with friends to romantic sundowners with your loved one. Snap it up before it flies off the shelves - and into everyone else’s garden.
Studio Rattan-effect lounger
Studio has a host of great-value yet trendy garden furniture pieces, which are always super-popular. Get your mitts on this stylish rattan-effect sun lounger for luxurious feet-up relaxing without the hefty price tag. It boasts reclining positions for your ideal hangout and, at this price, you can add two to basket so you don’t have to give up your seat when your partner wants a turn at the lazing life.
Sofa Sets
Florence Garden Corner Sofa Set
Transport yourself to a Mediterranean paradise without leaving your own back garden with this ultra-chic outdoor sofa set that comes complete with 15 thick, comfy cushions for a sumptuous sun-soaking hotspot. The leightweight frame is weather-resistant and can be left outside all year round. Along with two seats and a protective glass-topped table, it makes , and a great spot for drinks on balmy summer nights. Cheers!
George Home White Camden outdoor sofa set 2 piece
Sofa sets come in all different shapes and sizes and, if you’re short on space, this retro string bench and matching coffee table is ideal. The poly cord string and corrosion-resistant galvanised steel frame are perfect for withstanding unpredictable English summers, and the aesthetic is undeniably chic. The look gives a nod to the iconic mid-century acapulco chair for extra design points.
Very Rio low level corner sofa set
Outdoor dining sets don’t always come cheap, but this super-chic and trendy option from Very is particularly well priced. It might not have cushions as thick as some more expensive options, but it’s still comfortable and a great choice if you’re on a budget but still like stylish pieces. There’s handy shelf at each end (basically extra seating space for your glass of wine), and a matching coffee table, too. It sells out quickly every summer, so it’s a good idea to get in early!
Garden accessories
Garden Trading Round drinks trolley
Picture this: you’re ultra-comfy on your sun lounger, feet up, tunes on, magazine flopped open and you realise you’re missing one crucial element - a thrist-quenching drink. There’ll be no pesky trips to the kitchen from your outdoor relaxation station thanks to this cool new drinks trolley where you can stylishly display everything you need for your very own garden party. Pop your ice and mixers on the bottom and use the top to serve. Finished in powder coated steel, it’s ideal for outdoor use but we’d take it inside for winter and use it for fireside fizz. Bliss, no matter where it ends up.
Made Josper low metal firepit, black
You’ve enjoyed a beautiful afternoon soaking up the sun, eating al fresco and you don’t want the day to end when the sun goes down. Keep the outdoor party going with this firepit, which will allow you to continue the socialising into the night. The stylish design is modern and contemporary, and will make a stylish finishing touch to your outdoor area. Come on baby, light my fire.
AM.PM Lilou Water Hyacinth Box
Who wants to be traipsing in and out of the house to get their outdoor essentials? When you need blankets, magazines, cushions or even your own personal mini bar (it’s summer, after all), you can simply reach over and grab it from your handy storage chest. It’s a little multipurpose marvel, as it also doubles up as an extra seat or side table, making it a worthy investment.
£99 | La Redoute *On sale from £110
Verdict
As far as outdoor sofa sets go, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better value and style ratio than Very’s Rio low level corner set. It strikes the perfect balance of bank-friendly and hotel-smart, creating a chic spot to while away those balmy summer days with friends and family.
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