Monday, 31 October 2011

Sprucing Modern Outdoor Furniture With Outdoor Patio Or Deck

By Alex Blaken


When researching this article I found myself wondering how I would define exactly what modern outdoor furniture is. Modern times are relative to whatever time we live in so all previous periods have had their own versions of modern furniture. After some time considering a definition I finally decided on one that I thought I could be happy with. To be considered modern a piece of furniture would have to be unique from any styles that have come before it. It may take its inspiration from more classical pieces but it would have to be markedly different in design to qualify as distinctly modern furniture. Wood has been used in furniture for centuries but you will still find contemporary styles of furniture created from it. Iron is another example but many fine examples of modern furniture are created from it. If a design requires it there is nothing stopping a craftsman from merging the two in creative and unique ways.

Plastic and resin are relatively new materials so any outdoor furniture made from these must be examples of modern outdoor furniture. Often associated with cheaper furniture these materials, when used properly can create beautiful, long lasting and sturdy furniture. Manufacturers can even duplicate the look of wood without the need for staining and lacquering. For people who may turn their noses up at plastic furniture for environmental reasons it's actually good news as they are commonly made from recycled PET bottles. That is excellent news. You can be green and modern at the same time.

Many types of modern furniture use a combination of wood and metal to create striking designs. Outdoor metal furniture may require a nice shady spot in the garden to avoid accidental burns. If no shade is available then outdoor cushions are a must. By using wood as the seat you can overcome this problem and many furniture manufacturers produce beautiful examples with a combination of wood and metal.

The style of home you have chosen to live in will have a big impact on the type of furniture you will ultimately decide on. It's no surprise that your tastes in house design will have a large bearing on your furniture choices as well. A person who likes the idea of a quaint country cottage won't be interested in furniture made with a distinctly architectural flare. Personalities of people are not cast in stone so you will find exceptions. Some people like to mix and match to create unique contrasts in their living environment.

When you're talking about modern outdoor furniture you are talking about the most diverse range of shapes sizes, use, functions, manufacturing materials and affordability. More so than any other style of furniture. If you are after a unique look than you should consider the more modern pieces. With the many unique designs and materials available you should have no trouble finding something that fits both your personality and living space.




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