The Great Outdoors: Living Your Best Al Fresco Life

WRITTEN BY CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

Al fresco living spaces are here to stay, and summer is the perfect time to incorporate fashion and functionality, creating your perfect gathering spot right under the stars. Carefully chosen furniture and area rugs add instant ambiance to your outdoor haven. A well-dressed patio, deck, or porch is not only inviting but also effectively transitions from the indoors to the outdoors. Whether you are looking for a simple way to freshen an existing outdoor space or planning an envyinducing outdoor project, we have some helpful tips when considering outdoor furniture and area rugs.

BEFORE YOU PURCHASE OUTDOOR FURNITURE...

CONSIDER FUNCTIONALITY

First things first—take a minute to envision how your outdoor space will be used. Would you like to spend your summer evenings dining outdoors? Will you be hosting pool parties? Are you looking for somewhere to escape with a good book in your hand? These are all important questions that will play a valuable role in selecting furniture.

Planning on a sunset dinner? Then, you will need a dining table. Kids running around in swimsuits with pool toys in tow? Then, waterproof items are a must. Do you want the outdoor space to be your escape? Then, you need extra-comfortable furniture—a must for all scenarios.

CONSIDER YOUR CLIMATE

You must consider what the weather will bring. Are your summer months hot and dry, or are humidity and frequent rainstorms the norm? Why is climate important? Simply put, not all outdoor furniture materials are suited for all types of weather. Stick with this simple guideline:

Rain and Moisture

If rainstorms and high humidity levels are par for the course, rust, mold, and wind are factors that you must consider.

• Choose a material that will stand up to the moisture-prone elements. Teakwood is a great option because of its natural highoil content and inherent strength. Woven vinyl is another water-resistant material to consider.

• Opt for hydrophobic cushions and pillows because they drain and dry more easily, are hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, and resist mold and mildew.

• Wind can topple over furnishings, so choose something heavy, and secure throw pillows and cushions.

Sun and Heat

• Select 100 percent solution-dyed acrylic fabrics because they will resist fading and staining and they are easy to care for.

• Place furniture in a shaded area when available, and shelter pillows and cushions from excessive sunlight.

CATALINA LOUNGE CHAIR by Lloyd Flanders

Luxurious and timeless, the Catalina Lounge Chair by Lloyd Flanders embraces a relaxed feeling with a sophisticated touch. Its unique fabric weave is paired with FSC-certified teak for a piece that will stand the test of time.

WILDWOOD HIGH-BACK PORCH ROCKER by Lloyd Flanders

A rocking chair brings a whole new level of cozy to your favorite outdoor space. The Wildwood High-Back Porch Rocker by Lloyd Flanders features a unique heather gray teak finish and comfort-scale seating, making it perfect for every outdoor patio.

MARTINIQUE SOFA by Lloyd Flanders

Relaxation meets high style with the Martinique Sofa by Lloyd Flanders. Friends and family will love gathering among these plush cushions—it’s the perfect place to lounge.

CONSIDER STORAGE

Protecting your outdoor furniture will add years to its life. Furnishings should be sheltered from harsh elements during the off-season. It is highly recommended to make room in your garage or basement for these furnishings. However, if storage is tight, never fear; there are many foldable and compact furniture options that can fit into small spaces or easily be taken apart.

BEFORE YOU PURCHASE OUTDOOR AREA RUGS...

Keep your patio furniture grounded by placing it on a stylish area rug. An area rug will create visual interest and make your patio feel cohesive and cozy. Advancements in textiles have provided all-weather rugs that can withstand all kinds of elements.

Material Matters

Outdoor area rugs are made of modern fabrics that can weather the elements. Still, every textile has pros and cons to consider.

Synthetic

Synthetic rugs are among customer favorites due to their vibrant colors; range of durability; and resistance to fading, mildew, and mold. They are water resistant, lightweight, and inexpensive.

Natural

Natural fibers, such as hemp, sisal, jute, and seagrass, can add texture to a space and are strong performers. Natural rugs should be sheltered from precipitation.

Sizing and Shape

Consider the size of your deck, patio, or porch before purchasing an area rug. Choose area rugs according to the furniture being placed on them. For instance, a round dining table would look great on a round rug, whereas a group of couches and a coffee table may look best on a rectangular setting.

As a general rule, all furniture legs should sit nicely on the rug. Chairs around an outdoor dining table should be able to be pulled out with all legs remaining on the rug. Allowing for about two extra feet of area rug around the perimeter of the furniture is a good rule to follow.

MARION LIGHT BROWN by Couristan

Rich in texture, the Cape Collection by Couristan is offered in a range of classic shades and linear patterns. Innovative fibers ensure this rug is weather and fade resistant, making it the perfect addition to a lively outdoor setting.

BOHO IN RED by Kaleen

Infuse style into your outdoor space with classic vintage patterns. The Boho Patio collection by Kaleen was made for both indoor and outdoor use, featuring UV protection and a nonskid backing.

Outdoor Rug Care and Maintenance

Shoes, bare feet, and pet paws are bound to track dust and dirt onto your precious area rug. To extend the life of your rug, remove dirt often. A light vacuuming will go a long way, but, if that’s not an option, shake the dirt loose. It is also recommended to flip your rug over once a month to keep the fibers evenly worn.

At the end of the sunny season, make sure to clean your area rug. This will help prolong its life. Area rugs should be properly dried, rolled up, and stored in a safe place during the off-season. This will protect them from the harsh elements as well as unwelcome critters.

Finding the right furniture and area rugs for your airy oasis will ensure that you spend the bulk of your time soaking up the sun and enjoying your relaxing space, not cleaning and maintaining it. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect pairing for a sensory-rich outdoor space.