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Searching for the best outdoor furniture? You’re far from alone—the category has seen a significant increase in search volume over the last three years, as the pandemic prompted a renewed interest in refreshing our backyards, patios, balconies, and lawns. And the fervent interest doesn’t show any signs of stopping: “Outdoor furniture will become more sophisticated and refined as we continue to spend more time entertaining outdoors, and our patios become true extensions of our interior décor,” Timothy Corrigan theorized in Vogue’s 2022 interior design trends report.
Indeed, many backyards have been getting a glamorous glow-up as of late. Last year, Louis Vuitton recently launched their own outdoor furniture line, while Loro Piana has now made their all-weather fabrics easier to order than ever. Meanwhile, Gubi continues to roll out a number of high-design objects for the outside. Last February, the Danish design company revived the rare, sunny pieces of cult Milanese designer Gabriella Crespi, while this year, they're offering lighting by Mathieu Matégot.
But where to begin when it comes to shopping for the perfect piece? Let’s start with the most basic of basics: a place to sit. A portable, lightweight slingback chair is perfect for those who need something simple. Looking to make a more permanent investment? You can’t go wrong with a classic Adirondack or a super-plushy cushioned lounge chair.
No summer night is complete without an al fresco meal, but you’ll need the right dining set to make that happen. For urbanites, a bistro set is a chic and space-conscious choice—order in a pop of color while you’re at it, as it does wonders against concrete. If you have an expansive lawn or patio and love to entertain, invest in a full dining set (afterwards, please invite me over for a cocktail or two) then lay down an outdoor rug to tie the whole setting together. And don’t forget the accessories: an artisanal planter, a rotund fire pit, and an aesthetically pleasing inflatable pool. (Yes, really.)
Below, 39 of the best pieces of outdoor furniture, whether you’re a city-dweller, country-lover, modernist, or traditionalist.
Chairs
From easy-to-move slingbacks to the cushy lounger you’ll never want to get up from, here are the perfect seats to drink rosé in all summer long.
Couches
The outdoor couches you, your family, and your friends will all love.
Outdoor Coffee Tables
The chicest tables to rest your morning paper, coffee, and cocktails on.
Outdoor Rugs
To tie the entire space together.
Bistro Sets
Just the things for your next city cocktail hour, balcony tête-à-tête, or even outdoor office.
Dining Sets
For the entertainer looking to make their poolside patio the place to be this summer.
Chaise Lounges
For stylish lounging by the pool or on the patio.
Accessories and Accents
After you order the basics, get something to add a bit of spark—perhaps literally, with a fire pit or pizza oven.