Best Garden Furniture 2023: Chic Summer Designs

By Ali Howard

Garden furniture has come a long way since the days of blow-away plastic tables and chairs – and that's something to celebrate. Blurring the lines between inside and out, our patios, terraces and balconies have become an extension of our living spaces, and we’re now putting as much care into choosing our patio pieces as we do with our interior décor. Excitingly, designers have heard our demands: whether we’re looking to create a tranquil spot in which to soak up the rays, or a relaxed entertaining-focused hub for al fresco evenings and sunset soirées, there's a stylish furniture piece to suit our taste, space, and budget.

But where furnishing a back garden differs from doing up our indoors is a lack of structure. Without the constraints of interior walls, we need to zone our outside space to make the absolute most of it. With considered furniture placement and thoughtful lighting, we can create outdoor lounge areas, dining rooms, or even spa-like sanctuaries, and we’ll soon have friends and family clamouring for an invitation to our fun-filled and multifunctional garden.

With the summer peeking around the clouds, now's the ideal time to invest in a few key pieces to up your garden furniture game. Our top picks across garden dining sets, lounge sets, garden sofas, sun loungers and outdoor lighting are guaranteed to turn any lacklustre backyard into an outdoor oasis.

This industrial outdoor dining set invites us to spread out in style. The chunky teak and aluminium table is complemented with six roomy butterfly chairs designed for guests to sit back and relax.

As practical as it is stylish, this sprawling contemporary corner sofa and coffee table elevate outdoor lounging. With its deep comfy seats and its handy surfaces for drinks, it's made for long lazy afternoons on the terrace.

Forget boxy rattan seating, this outdoor settee is light, airy and elegant. It might look like a delicate furniture piece but with its metal frame and shower-proof cushioning, it is deceptively durable, sturdy, and weather-resistant.

This streamlined and contemporary sun lounger is robust but lightweight, allowing us to easily move it into a sunny spot. It's subtle teak detailing on the armrests makes it a stand out on the design front.

You can create an impressive light show for your garden party guests with these high-tech illuminations. The clever LED lights are voice controlled, meaning you won't even have to get up from your lounger to set the mood.

Most outdoor pieces are made from wood or metal. Hardwoods like teak and acacia prove particularly suitable for outside use, thanks to their natural shower-proof qualities. But they can be very expensive. Some metal furniture pieces in steel, or a lightweight powder-coated aluminium, prove just sleek and stylish, as well as being pleasingly low-maintenance. And most wicker or rattan furniture these days is durable man-made stuff, but you wouldn't know it, thanks to its cleverly natural-looking patina.

Ideally, yes. If you want to prolong the life of your new lounge set or outdoor dining table – especially if it's an expensive investment piece – you should look for a suitable cover. While it's tempting to plump for the most affordable option it's important to shop for those with a breathable, mould-proof fabric, and of course a good fit. Any loose cushioning, even if it claims to be shower-proof, should be taken indoors as it won't thank you for leaving it out in the elements.

Outdoor lighting is a great way to create zoned areas in the garden. Whether you border your patio space with festoon lights overhead, create a cosy glow for intimate gatherings around the table, or you illuminate your path with directional up lights, you can dedicate particular areas of your outdoors to give it purpose and flow. The addition of outdoor lighting allows you to set the mood for your soirée and will encourage your guests to stay once the sun goes down.

Whether you’re in the market for a sprawling table and chairs set to accommodate extended family and friends, or you’re after something a little more space-saving and intimate for your compact patio space, there's a wealth of stylish outdoor-ready dining sets to choose from.

Reasons to buy: Stylish, naturally weather-resistant, can seat up to eight with additional chairs

Mixing chic industrial styling with the beauty of natural wood is this substantial outdoor dining set from Barker and Stonehouse. The chunky table is crafted from aged teak, which is known for its naturally occurring weather-resistant properties, while the equally blocky frame is a jet black powder-coated aluminium. In contrast to the table's unapologetic bulk, the six butterfly armchairs offer a light and airy touch, thanks to their slimline aluminium frames and their loose rope weave. A heady mix. £2,175. At barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

Reasons to buy: Comfortable, sophisticated, oval shaped table for a more intimate gathering

Stylish, contemporary, and seriously comfy, Maze's Pebble set hits all the right notes for a sophisticated outdoor dinner party. The long, oval table is made from a powder-coated aluminium and is finished with a spray stone tempered glass, while the aluminium chairs are upholstered in a high-performance fabric complete with quick dry foam, making them – and the table – impressively shower friendly. Oval tables are sociable and intimate by nature, and this one's no exception. Add in the generously wide and supportive chairs and your guests will want to stick around for the duration. £2,659. At mazeliving.co.uk

Reasons to buy: Space-saving, sustainable, brings a laid-back pub vibe to the garden

Canteen-style tables and benches bring a laid-back casual feel to the dining room or open-plan kitchen, so it makes absolute sense to bring the trend outdoors – only this time it brings a welcome pub garden feel, too. John Lewis’ offering is fashioned from an attractive slatted acacia wood with robust zinc-coated contemporary steel frames – choose the grey or green colourway for a stylish contrast with the honey-toned wood. Similar to teak, acacia boasts weather-resistant properties, and is relatively fast-growing, making this set a more sustainably sound option than most. £797. At johnlewis.com

Designed with long, lazy summer afternoons in mind, these chic outdoor sets combine comfy seating with nifty surfaces and tabletops, encouraging us to relax for hours with drinks and nibbles close to hand.

Reasons to buy: Weather-resistant, deep comfy seats, allows for a versatile patio set-up

Unlike fixed corner or L-shaped settees, this versatile set comprises a two-seater sofa, two armchairs, and a slatted coffee table, allowing you to arrange it to suit your outside space. With a nod to mid-century modern design, the seating is generously wide and deep, with angular wood frames and pleasingly high armrests, while the boxy cushions add a more contemporary feel. Fashioned from acacia, and with shower-proof upholstery fabric, the Stroud set proves suitably robust for outdoors. £996. At cotswoldco.co.uk

Reasons to buy: Statement seating, sociable shaping, extra surfaces for drinks and nibbles

One for larger patio spaces, the Skagen set comprises a pleasingly symmetrical corner sofa and a matching square coffee table that sits neatly within the dimensions of the settee. The set boasts an arresting mix of materials: industrial-style powder-coated aluminium frames are met with warm acacia wood, while tabletops are finished in a sleek polystone concrete. Shower-proof cushions in a stylish mid-grey complete the look. But as plush as they are, this one's all about the exposed frame and the nifty integral side tables that jut out from each end of the sofa. Whichever seat pad you’re on, your cold beer is within easy reach. £2,649. At coxandcox.co.uk

Reasons to buy: Compact, all-weather materials, ergonomic shaping

With its slim and elegant profile, the Aurelia set is ideal for a compact patio, yet it offers a big impact on the style front. The two-seater, coffee table and pair of armchairs boast an arresting mix of wood effect vinyl-wrapped aluminium, together with an all-weather rattan, which is tightly woven around the curved backrests and seat bases. Add to that shower-proof cushioning and a frosted glass tabletop, and you have one weather-ready lounge set. Thanks to its aluminium makeup, this one's also pleasingly lightweight, allowing you to rearrange your set-up at ease. £999. At laredoute.co.uk

With plush cushioning designed specifically for outdoor use, a garden sofa is a luxurious addition to your patio, terrace or decked area. As with their indoor counterparts, garden sofas are typically bought in two- or three-seater configurations. Spread out in style.

Reasons to buy: Elegant, shower-proof, includes loose back cushions for versatility

This three-seater might look deceptively delicate with an all-natural frame, but it is in fact crafted from sturdy steel and wrapped in an all-weather synthetic rattan. With its grainy texture and irregular tonal variations, it does a great job of mimicking the real thing. Plush and weather-resistant cushioning comes in the form of a long, fitted seat pad, while three shower-proof scatter cushions can be placed wherever you want them for comfort – pop one behind you on the slanted arm rest, swing your legs around, and the piece becomes a comfy day bed in an instant. £1,095. At oka.com

Reasons to buy: Sculptural, suited for indoors or out, ergonomic shaping

With its bold undulating curves and its handwoven makeup, the Betal sofa brings sculptural interest to the garden, along with boho appeal. This one's made from 100 per cent natural rattan, meaning it won't thank you for leaving it out in the elements, but it makes for one stylish patio piece when there's guaranteed sunshine in the warmer months. Designed for curling up in, the outdoor sofa boasts ergonomic shaping and proves perfectly comfy whether you pile it up with scatter cushions or not – or indeed a natural sheepskin to continue the boho look. £800. At habitat.co.uk

Reasons to buy: Playful design, reliably weather-proof, brings a splash of colour to the patio

If blurring the boundaries between inside and out is the game, this stylish settee –a collab between designer, Samuel Wilkinson, and The Conran Shop– wins on multiple levels. The striking, contemporary two-seater is fashioned from a powder-coated stainless steel tubular frame that has undergone an additional rust-proof treatment for extra durability. Bouncy cushioning is covered in a choice of fast-drying fabrics from The Conran Shop's upholstery edit: choose Dolce, Bora Bora, or Strange Love for an unexpected bold stripe on your patio space. From £3,300. At conranshop.co.uk

You can bring summer holiday vibes to the back garden with the addition of an indulgent day bed. These adjustable loungers are designed for blissful dozing in the sunshine – just don't forget to slap on the factor 50 before you drift off.

Reasons to buy: Stylishly understated, boasts high armrests, comfortable with or without cushioning

The Tutti is a particularly striking sun lounger that brings contemporary sass to the patio. Unlike most, it brags high curved armrests, which gives you a nifty place to rest your elbows when you’re sat upright and sipping a cold beverage. The adjustable frame is simple but effective in design, crafted from a lightweight aluminium, and with a teak detailing on the armrests. A light weatherproof mesh is firm and supportive on the body, with just the right amount of give, but if you’re after something a little plusher (albeit not too plush to upset the clean lines), soft grey or anthracite cushioning is an added extra. From £550. At sunslifestyle.com

Reasons to buy: Integrated side table, hidden wheels, choice of three colourways

This award-winning design features an integrated – and interchangeable – slatted side table that runs along the length of the lounger, giving you a sizeable surface for drinks, books, or even towels if you’re lucky enough to be sunning yourself poolside. The Eos Platform is made from a powder-coated aluminium that boasts both weather-resistance and rust-proof properties, while the light fabric sling seat is reliably all-weather, too. Scoring points on versatility, this one also features discreet wheels and plastic floor guides for moving it into the perfect position, plus it is stackable for storage. £1,024. At casefurniture.com

Reasons to buy: Elegant, timeless, easy to manoeuvre

The elegant Porthmore lounger is fashioned from solid teak, a hardwood that successfully stands up to the elements, thanks to its natural oils. But beyond its practical outdoor creds, this is a beautifully warm and textured wood with a rich swirling grain. In sharp contrast, the white textilene mesh is crisp and clean, and it's this mix of materials that awards the piece a chic Scandi feel. The contemporary sun lounger boasts large wooden wheels plus a handle for ease of movement, while the piece is adjustable to find your perfect reclining position. £600. At gardentrading.co.uk

Lights are too often an afterthought when buying garden furniture but some of these weatherproof illuminations will take centre stage on the patio, setting the mood for the evening – and good garden lighting is vital if you want to prolong the party.

Reasons to buy: Endless colour choices, directional, app and voice controlled

Designed to work with the Philips Hue Bridge, these clever voice-controlled lights allow you to choose your own colour to create the perfect ambience for your garden party. Small but mighty, the directional spotlights are staked straight into the ground, giving you an inconspicuous light source, yet as much brightness as you would want to illuminate your patio. With the accompanying app, you can use the lights as security, too – have them turn on automatically when you come home in the dark or get them to mimic your presence when you’re away with a timed switch on or off. £239. At amazon.co.uk

Reasons to buy: Vintage style, weatherproof, choice of two lengths

Festoon lights bring a fun, theatrical element to your outside space, whether you hang them the length of your garden, or you have them clustered on a pergola overhead to light up al fresco evenings. Graham & Green's take on the classic string lights features warm, vintage-style lightbulbs on a durable black cable – choose lengths of 10 or 20 bulbs to suit your space. Reliably weather-proof, the mains-powered lights boast a generous three metres of cable before the first bulb, allowing you to set up the light display away from the back door. From £45. At grahamandgreen.co.uk

Reasons to buy: Bohemian, weather-proof, creates a magical atmosphere

Mixing age-old craft with clever tech are these boho-style outdoor lights from high-end garden furniture brand Tribu. The bulbous, lantern-like shades feature a knitted cover in weather-proof polyolefin rope, which not only softens the look but, thanks to its distinctive pattern, casts impressive shadows across the garden. The LED lights are also dimmable, giving you ultimate control over the atmosphere you want to create. The versatile lights can be hung above an outdoor dining table for a warm glow at intimate gatherings, or better still, from a mature tree, giving structure to your mood lighting. From £1,040. At gomodern.co.uk

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