If you are looking for a rattan set for outdoor use you will most likely be looking at a poly rattan set rather than a natural, organic rattan set. (Natural rattan sets are often described as conservatory sets throughout Europe as they need to be kept away from damp weather – although on summer days they can be used outdoors without problems.) There are a number of standard designs of outdoor furniture available in poly rattan that you can choose from:
Cube Dining Sets
As the name suggests, these sets are cube shaped for easy storage when not in use, but do have a modern contemporary look when in use.
Cube sets generally come in two basic patterns, the four seater and six seater option. The four seater option neatly stows into a square cube, the six seater forms a rectangular cube.
These sets usually come with optional footstools. The main drawback of these sets are that they usually do not feature a parasol and can be difficult to extend for greater seating capacity. The main benefit is that they will stow easily over winter seasons without taking up to much space.
Round Dining Sets
Traditional style round dining sets are easy to find and are the most common type of set available. They can usually be purchased as 4 seat, six seat or eight seat variants giving plenty of scope for use depending on your family size or whether you want to use the set commercially.
A top benefit of these sets is that they are likely to either come with a parasol or at least have a central opening to allow the use of a parasol. These sets are not so easy to store as cube sets but are more versatile if you need to extend seating options in the future.
See also a1 appliances and tv repair near meYou are unlikely to get footstools with this option so if you are looking for maximum comfort you may have to buy footstools as individual items.
Sofa Lounge Sets
If you are purely after comfort and relaxation and envisage summer days as days for slouching in the sun you can easily opt for a poly rattan sofa set.
These sets are generally available in two patterns. You can either get a set that will consist of a three and two seater sofa or a corner sofa unit in an “L” pattern.
Often these sofas have a contemporary, minimalist style but traditional sofa shapes are available. You can expect sofa sets to come with optional footstools and low level coffee tables.
These sets can be great for restaurant or commercial use so it is wise to evaluate the sets build quality before buying.
Sun Loungers
Before the advent of all weather rattan/wicker a sunlounger in rattan would have held little appeal, just not strong enough or comfortable. Now with aluminium framing and poly weave there are a range of sun loungers that are both sturdy and comfortable to use.
Poly weave has opened up a whole range of potential designs so you can now get sun loungers that range from being art deco through to minimalist in style, whilst being UV and salt water resistant.
Most loungers will come with a full length padded cushion for comfort and many will feature an additional side table. Look out for loungers with wheels for easy relocating.
The sheer number of different styles, colours and types of set available mean you should be able to easily find a rattan set that can add a bit of extra style to your garden. Check some of our other pages for ideas.
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