Australia’s diverse climate presents a unique challenge when selecting outdoor furniture. From the blazing heat and intense UV exposure to coastal winds and heavy rainfall, outdoor furniture needs to be resilient while enhancing the aesthetic of your garden. Luckily, there are a wide variety of materials and design options available that combine style with durability. In this article, we explore how to make the best choices for your outdoor space, featuring expert insights from leading professionals in the outdoor furniture industry.
Choosing the Right Materials
Choosing materials suited to Australia’s extreme climate is crucial for longevity. For many experts, teak remains a top choice due to its natural resilience. As Patryc Lampasi from Harbour explains, “Teak is naturally resistant to moisture and warping, and it’s the teak oils that offer long-lasting durability.” He adds that over time, teak develops a beautiful grey patina, which many Australians prefer for its softer, more lived-in look.
The beautiful Breeze sofa from Harbour is made with teak for natural durability.
However, teak isn’t the only option. According to Stacey Clarke from B2C Furniture, acacia is a durable and cost-effective alternative. “Acacia is really durable and gives you the natural look of timber at a more affordable price,” she says. Stacey also points out that stainless steel is another great option for many climates, as it’s rust-resistant and relatively lightweight.
For homeowners in coastal areas, powder-coated aluminium is a highly recommended material. “Aluminium is rust-resistant and ideal for coastal regions,” says Karina Bingley-Pullin from Remarkable Outdoor Living, who emphasises the importance of choosing high-quality powder-coated finishes to ensure longevity. “We use marine-grade aluminium with a high-quality powder coat to protect against scratches and corrosion”.
Even plastics have come a long way in outdoor furniture. Tom White from The Best Backyard points out that modern UV-treated plastic resin can be a great choice for durability. “People often have bad memories of brittle plastic furniture from the past, but the new plastic resin is UV-treated and can withstand the harsh Australian sun,” he notes.
The Coogee modular lounge from The Best Backyard is made from durable PE wicker which is both UV-resistant and waterproof
Combining Style and Function
While durability is key, outdoor furniture must also enhance the aesthetic of your outdoor space. Jay Lawson from SLH Furniture / MAMAGREEN highlights how the evolution of materials has made it possible to bring indoor styles outdoors: “A lot of indoor styles can now be used outdoors thanks to more luxurious fabrics that hold up to Australian conditions.” He adds that modular designs are increasingly popular, offering flexibility and the ability to adapt your setup to different needs.
The Munia outdoor sofa from MAMAGREEN is undeniably stylish yet remarkably durable thanks to its quality fabric and teak accents.
This indoor-outdoor blend is a growing trend. Jo Foley from BOLIA explains, “Our outdoor collections are designed to look like beautiful indoor furniture, but with materials like marine-grade rope and powder-coated aluminium for durability.” She also emphasises the importance of details, such as reticulated foam in cushions, which allows water to drain out quickly, preventing mould and ensuring comfort.
The Track Garden sofa from BOLIA certainly doesn't look or feel like outdoor furniture, but it is still durable and hardwearing.
Jason Woodland from Fanuli further elaborates on this trend, stating, “People want flow between their indoor and outdoor spaces. Low-slung sofas and occasional chairs that don’t interrupt the visual flow are popular, especially where there’s a view”. This seamless integration of indoor and outdoor design allows homeowners to create a cohesive living experience, blending comfort with nature.
Sustainability and Innovation
Sustainability is increasingly becoming a key factor in outdoor furniture design. Karina Bingley-Pullin notes the rising demand for eco-friendly materials, stating, “We’re seeing a big shift towards recycled woods and plastics, such as our collections made from 100% recycled resin.” She adds that these materials not only help the environment but also provide durable, stylish options for outdoor settings.
Similarly, Jeff Tsang from Cult discusses the importance of sustainable practices in manufacturing. “We’re seeing more outdoor collections that focus on both design and sustainability. Many brands, like Fritz Hansen and Hay, are incorporating eco-friendly materials into their ranges,” he says. He also highlights the importance of maintenance: “Even the best outdoor furniture needs maintenance. It’s never a set-and-forget purchase; regular upkeep will prolong the life of your pieces”.
One of the more innovative trends in outdoor furniture design is the use of modular pieces, which allow for maximum flexibility. Patryc Lampasi emphasises this growing trend: “Modular furniture allows homeowners to adapt their outdoor space as needed, whether it’s rearranging for a large gathering or creating a more intimate setting”. This flexibility is especially useful in smaller gardens where space is at a premium.
Latest Trends in Outdoor Furniture
Functionality and aesthetic appeal continue to guide the latest trends in outdoor furniture. Roger Wei from Temple & Webster highlights the increasing demand for multifunctional pieces: “Outdoor storage is often overlooked, but multifunctional furniture like Ottomans that double as storage is becoming very popular,” he says. These clever designs not only maximise space but also add an extra layer of practicality.
The Portsea Acacia Wood Outdoor Storage Bench, crafted from sustainably sourced acacia with a light teak-look finish, combines style and eco-friendliness, offering spacious storage, a comfortable linen-look cushion, and durable quality backed by a 3-year warranty and 30-day return policy.
In terms of colours and finishes, Tom White points out the growing preference for more natural, rustic looks. “We’re seeing a lot of demand for fire pits and outdoor furniture that fits into that rustic aesthetic, which helps blend the furniture with the natural surroundings of the garden,” he notes.
Jay Lawson also mentions the enduring appeal of timeless designs: “We tend to avoid chasing trends because it’s more important to invest in quality furniture that will stand the test of time, both in style and durability”. This focus on long-lasting materials and classic designs ensures that your outdoor space remains functional and beautiful for years to come.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Furniture
Even with the best materials, maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of your outdoor furniture. Karina Bingley-Pullin suggests using protective covers to shield furniture from rain and extreme heat when not in use. She also advises rotating cushions to prevent sun damage from affecting one side more than the other.
Jo Foley adds that choosing materials like marine-grade rope and powder-coated metals helps minimise maintenance, but regular cleaning and care are still necessary. “Wiping down surfaces and ensuring that powder coatings remain intact will prevent rust and prolong the life of your furniture,” she explains.
As Stacey Clarke wisely notes, “Outdoor furniture requires more care than indoor pieces. Regular maintenance like oiling timber and storing cushions during winter can extend the life of your investment”. This attention to detail ensures that your outdoor furniture remains a beautiful and functional part of your home for many years.
Choosing outdoor furniture that combines style with durability is easier than ever with the range of high-quality, innovative materials and designs available. From the natural beauty of teak and the resilience of powder-coated aluminium to eco-friendly recycled plastics, today’s outdoor furniture offers something for every space and climate. Whether you’re after a seamless indoor-outdoor flow or modular pieces that adapt to your needs, investing in quality materials and regular maintenance will ensure your outdoor area is both stylish and long-lasting.