Creating Your Dream Christmas Tree - Suggestions from an Expert

Natural hardwoods bring durable elegance to outdoor settings.

Outdoor furnishings should be an extension of your indoor decor. If you wouldn't dream of sticking a shabby card table in your living room, it probably has no place on your porch. Instead, say design experts, think of your yard, patio or deck as an open-air room — and choose furniture with the same eye toward quality and aesthetic appeal. The difference lies in the materials, not the style.

Whether you're looking at classic hardwoods, ornate cast iron or contemporary sling and aluminum, the first step is to carefully assess your climate and your lifestyle. Do you get a lot of rain, and will the furniture be sheltered from it? How often do you entertain outdoors? Do you need protection from midday sun or evening chill?

“You wouldn't put a five dollar chair in the living room of a $200,000 house,” says one furniture manufacturer. “You'd seek out one that reflects your stature and personality. Outdoor furnishings should be viewed the same way — after all, the outside of your home is the very first thing you and your guests see when approaching your home.” He lists four points to keep in mind when furnishing an outdoor area.

Outdoor furnishings should be an extension of your interior style.

“One, don't look for price alone,” he counsels. “Look for value commensurate with the investment you're making. Two, buy from a reputable, knowledgeable dealer who can match you with the furniture that best suits your needs. Three, find the best mix of comfort, durability and eye appeal. And four, think carefully about maintenance requirements — do you have time to move cushions if it rains? If not, look for sling furniture. Do you want something that requires no seasonal touch-ups? Check for powder-coated aluminum frames that stay new-looking longer.”

Maintenance requirements are a prime consideration, agree other outdoor furniture makers. “Sling furniture is a bestseller, because it's so easy,” says one. “You can buff it with a little car wax at the beginning of the season, and just throw it in your pool for clean up.”

Comfort and durability are also key, when mixed with the traditional appeal of classic hardwood furniture. “Natural hardwoods withstand the weather and look gorgeous doing it,” says another outdoor furniture manufacturer.

Stylish, sturdy pieces are perfect for entertaining outdoors.

When shopping for outdoor furniture, here are some practical tips:

• Is there shelter from rain? Do you need cushions that can be left out in all weather?
• When are you usually outdoors (evenings after work, midday on weekends)? Do you need protection from strong sun (umbrellas, awnings)?
• On small decks and porches, are you leaving enough space for through traffic (beware of over-furnishing)?
• Do you have enough seating for any entertaining?
• Have you tied your indoor-outdoor areas together with a coordinated use of color? Pick up indoor colors on your outdoor furniture.
• Consider the durability of materials and colors. Will that bright green fade under strong sun?