Patio Décor Options

When it comes to developing the perfect outdoor living environment, there are many considerations including patio furniture, lighting and other decorative accents such as water features, fire pits and even gas grills. Not only do these decisions impact the overall look of the space you are creating, but they also contribute to the usefulness and enjoyment of a patio.

When it comes to creating the perfect outdoor oasis, perhaps no other element is as important as patio furniture.

Urban Home decided to catch up with Debs Pedigo, one of the region’s foremost authorities on outdoor living environments, for advice. He is the owner of The Firehouse Casual Living store, one of Charlotte’s largest outdoor living retailers.

“When choosing patio furniture, consider the style, intended use, the number of people you typically entertain as well as how comfortable and durable the furniture is,” said Pedigo. He added that outdoor furniture that has to be protected or that stains easily, will probably prove to be more trouble than it is worth. “Consumers should invest in furniture that will stand up over time without a lot of extra care,” said Debs.

So what should you look for?

Outdoor Wicker
What was once only used in areas like sunrooms and covered porches, wicker has been impacted by the evolution of materials that allow for uses beyond totally protected environments. “This furniture has consistently good looks and is a favorite here in the South because of its timeless beauty.”

Newer resin-based materials make for a material that can withstand the elements far better than older materials that our parents and grandparents may have used.

Teak / Natural Woods
Tropical hardwoods such as teak are very popular and seem to age with time. “The material is durable and elegant,” noted Pedigo. “As wood ages it will turn a soft silver grey color unless it is treated with special oils and preservatives.” Because of teak’s natural oil content, it can withstand the elements better than pressure treated woods. But designs are going to be limited due to the inherent limitations in wood fabrication.

Cast Aluminum
“ By far the best choice for a durable material with hundreds of design possibilities is cast aluminum,” noted Pedigo. “The material is practical, rust proof, almost maintenance free, comfortable and is strong enough to withstand abuse.” From a stylistic standpoint, cast aluminum can’t be beat with designs that resemble everything from bamboo to wicker. “Newer styles are incorporating multiple table top materials such as ceramic, slate and even marble.”

Wrought Iron
“ Wrought iron has exceptional construction standards and is perfect for windy areas where heavier furniture is needed,” said Pedigo. “It is elegant and timeless, but is prone to some minimal rust if left exposed indefinitely to the elements.”

Fabric Options
Literally thousands of design possibilities are available in fabrics, but essentially choices will boil down to several seating surfaces: sling—the most popular option that is a mesh material; strap—easy to maintain, cool on hot days and available in many colors, this is a popular choice for many consumers; cushions—more comfortable than sling or strap seating, all weather cushioned seating is the closest thing to indoor seating options.

The Firehouse Casual Living is your one-stop outdoor living location with everything from gas grills to pergolas to patio furniture. They have two locations in Charlotte. 6620 West W.T. Harris Boulevard (704-598-8787) and 10216 Johnston Road (704-541-9015).