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It might seem like the easiest way to choose outdoor furniture is to simply pick a style and buy the whole set. However, for a set-up that works with your space, caters to your lifestyle and has a bespoke look that’s uniquely ‘you’, try mixing furniture from difference ranges – just like you would inside your home.
By mixing and matching furniture, you can create a look that’s layered and casual, and easier to adapt as your needs evolve.
Before you start shopping, figure out what furniture you actually need. Are you planning a casual sitting area for your morning coffee, or a conversation zone that can seat a small crowd? Will the centrepiece be a comfy lounge setting, or a dining set-up for family barbecues? A good tip is to start with the big pieces, like a dining table or a large sofa, and then work from there, choosing side tables or chairs, leaving accessories like outdoor pots and cushions until last.
The materials you choose will have the most impact on the look you create – for example, lightweight and easy-to-maintain aluminium creates a crisp and contemporary look, while bleached timber and rattan (in the image below) evokes a beachy, boho style.
For style insight, begin by looking at what’s already in your home, especially in the interior spaces that open up to the outside. Also, look at the style of your garden and the materials that are in that area. This will help you choose the overarching theme of your space.
A good outdoor dining table and chairs will be an essential part of summer barbecues, family dinners and Sunday brunches, so it’s worth taking your time to find furniture that will deliver everything you need.
Start with the dimensions of the space. If a table is too small, it will look out of proportion; if it’s too big, it will be awkward to move around. Arrange furniture to allow for at least a metre between the table and walls or other furniture, so people can pull out their chairs and still walk around the table. As a safety consideration, allow plenty of space if the table will be adjacent to busy thoroughfares or the barbecue.
The best thing about mixing and matching dining furniture is that you can choose exactly what you need for your outdoor area. When planning your patio design, consider a bench seat as it’s a great space saver – you can pack in more bodies when catering for a crowd and, when it’s not needed, the bench slides neatly under the table and out of the way. Narrow, armless seats are also great for fitting in more people. Bookend the table with comfier seats – something with a good back, armrests and a cushioned seat to suit guests who need a little extra comfort and support.
Tie all your furniture pieces together with a common mix of materials. We’ve paired whitewashed timber with rattan. They both sit within the same casual, coastal palette, so they’re a marriage made in beach-house heaven.
For a lounge setting you’ll want to relax in all day, start by deciding where it will go. Look at how much room there is, and also how you can position seating to take advantage of the best sun, shade or views.
Keep functionality in mind when designing your patio, and make sure the furniture you’re considering covers all your needs – are you creating a solo reading nook or a conversation zone that can seat a crowd? Think about comfort and accessibility for whomever might be sitting there, such as a grandparent who might find getting up from a low seat difficult.
As well as mixing and matching different armchairs, consider modular furniture, which gives you the flexibility to alter or rearrange the look. You can move the chairs around to where they’re needed, separate or join modular pieces, or even move pieces inside in-between parties, especially if your outdoor furniture is a good match with your indoor style.
Now that you’ve chosen your major furniture pieces, start accessorising. The way you accessorise can help pull together the different furnishings for a cohesive look. Keep in mind your common theme and choose cushions, throws and pots that fit your style.
Keep it simple. The easiest way to successfully mix and match furniture is to stick to neutrals or to minimise the colours you use, so your outdoor zone is calm and easy on the eye. And you can always change up the look with new cushions and accessories next season!
Check out the rest of our outdoor living range to create the ultimate outdoor oasis.
Photo Credit: Brigid Arnott and James Moffatt
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
