The idea of creating a coastal retreat sounds interesting, but turning your property into an outdoor sanctuary means paying attention to various factors, including outdoor furniture. While the serenity of the seaside is alluring, the choice of outdoor furniture can make or break your experience. For one, it needs to complement the natural landscape. However, it must also be designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the coastal environment. Not every furniture piece can survive the intense sunlight, salty air, and high humidity.
You can ensure durability by selecting furniture pieces in weather-resistant materials that require minimal maintenance. At the same time, prioritizing functionality and style is vital, as the combination of these factors creates an inviting haven while enhancing the property’s allure.
Buying the Best Furniture Considering Coastal Challenges
Most buyers hoping to get the finest outdoor furniture for coastal homes often ignore the role salty air plays in deteriorating the quality of furniture. It accelerates corrosion and rust, particularly in metal pieces, which is why most experts often recommend aluminum, which is rust-proof and naturally mold-resistant, and it never cracks or chips.
The problem is that aluminum can sometimes be expensive, especially when it is powdered coated. Instead of cutting corners, it’s better to look for stores offering discount deals. For instance, Patioproductions.com, a premier online furniture retailer with several branches, an in-house furniture brand, and a retail store in San Diego offers various discount deals and “Spring into Summer “ sales, which sometimes offer 15% off on outdoor furniture. This suggests the material is probably the most important consideration when buying outdoor furniture for coastal homes. Here are some options to consider:
Teak
Teak is another standout choice for coastal furniture mainly because it’s naturally resistant to moisture and rot. Natural oils in this hardwood repel water, reducing the risk of cracking or warping. Moreover, it’s highly resistant to termite attacks and decay.
Due to its durability, teak has been used historically in shipbuilding. In fact, there are records showing teak has been used in the British Royal Navy and other maritime fleets due to its ability to handle moisture and other harsh conditions of the sea. Moreover, teak furniture is often preferred because it develops a silvery patina over time, which adds another touch of elegance to outdoor space.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE is an increasingly popular option for outdoor furniture that can withstand harsh coastal conditions. It is highly resistant to peeling, cracking, and fading, and is extremely good at retaining its appearance over time. It is also eco-friendly and can be bought in various colors, allowing you to pick pieces that reflect your personal style.
Various materials are available to ensure that outdoor furniture performs well in coastal areas. However, they all come with different maintenance requirements and fall into different price categories. For instance:
| Material | Weight | Corrosion Resistance | Maintenance Needs | Cost |
| Aluminum | Lightweight | High | Low | Moderate |
| Wood | Heavy | Low (unless treated) | High | High |
| Steel/Iron | Heavy | Low | Moderate to High | Varies |
| Wicker | Lightweight | Moderate to High | Moderate | Moderate |
Types of Outdoor Furniture to Buy for Coastal Retreats
Just like understanding what material type works best, it’s equally important to know about the types of furniture you need when designing a coastal retreat. For instance:
- Sofas and club chairs: Depending on how much space you have available, it always feels great to have sofas and club chairs in your outdoor living area. Look for pieces with weather-resistant cushions to ensure they look inviting while resisting fading and mildew.
- Dining sets: Depending on your budget, you may want to invest in a high-quality dining set for al fresco meals that combine functionality with coastal design elements. Opt for tables and chairs made from powdered-coated aluminum or teak, as they are durable and complement the existing decor with their organic textures and colors.
- Daybeds and chaise lounges: While they are not essential for every outdoor space, they definitely add a luxurious feel to your coastal home. They can be positioned correctly to take advantage of ocean views, but choose the material carefully; synthetic wicker with its natural fibers is a great option here.
- Deck chairs: To add a beachy vibe to your outdoor space, you can look for deck chairs, such as rocking, Adirondack, and glider chairs. They are often made from durable weather-resistant recycled plastics and add a classic touch to your space.
Endnote
The choice of furniture matters when creating an inviting coastal retreat. It needs to be stylish yet sturdy enough to deal with challenging weather conditions. Various material options are available, but be sure to consider how much space you have, your existing decor, and your budget to pick furniture pieces that help enhance the allure of a coastal retreat.
