Summer is quickly approaching, and warmer temperatures may have you looking at your outdoor space and what can be done to spruce it up. A backyard patio or deck can be a great place to hold your next summer get together or host family cookouts, and a simple furniture redesign project can revamp a previously neglected pool or boat area to create a beautiful gathering space.

Pool area and outdoor furniture
Pool area and outdoor furniture

Redesign Old Outdoor Furniture

Just because you want to improve the look of your backyard space doesn’t mean that you have to spend a fortune on new furniture. You can fix or refinish older pieces to give your deck furniture new life. Reupholstering your patio or lounge chairs to fix rips and tears can make your items more comfortable while approving the appearance of the pieces. Refurbishing your old pieces will be considerably more affordable than going out to buy new items, so consider using items that may be used for furniture design for around the pool.

Add Convenient Extras

When redesigning your outdoor space, be sure to consider items that might make the area more functional. Simple additions like a side table or ottoman can go a long way in improving the look of your outdoor space, but they can also make your time outdoors more comfortable. A side table can be a great way to keep your drinks handy while you are relaxing by the pool, and it can also keep items that you don’t want to get wet safe, such as your cell phone or the novel that you are working your way through. If you have an old side table you used to use indoors, a side table redesign may make it a great addition to your outdoor space.  You can find lots of ideas for potential projects by searching online.

Consider Outdoor-Friendly Materials

As a follow-up to our previous article on water décor, before you do any outdoor chair redesign or purchase new pieces for your backyard space, it is important to consider which materials will be outdoor-friendly. Not all types of furniture are designed to withstand rain, sun, and other outdoor elements, so if you are choosing a new piece or chair design, consider the following materials:

  • Aluminum: As one of the most popular materials for contemporary patio furniture, aluminum is strong, lightweight, and will not rust. It is easy to store and rearrange.
  • Resin Wicker: This weather-resistant, long-lasting synthetic fiber is often weaved over a sturdy metal frame, and it requires minimal care and maintenance.
  • Wood: Wood patio furniture has a timeless appeal and is very durable, but it is important that it is properly treated or stained in order to prevent damage or warping.

If you will be undertaking a chair redesign, you may want to choose fabrics or materials that are waterproof, as this will prevent you from needing to take your furniture inside out of the elements every night.