7 laid-back outdoor seating ideas

1 Outside winner

‘This garden furniture collection scores
highly for both function and form - it needs very little attention to
keep its elegance intact for years to come,' says John Sims-Hilditch,
Co-Founder, Neptune. ‘Crafted from galvanised steel, it will fare well
come wind, rain or shine and its comfy water repellent cushions have
washable covers. Add a matching coffee table so you can enjoy a relaxed
al fresco breakfast or afternoon tea.'

2 Fringe benefits

What better way to while away a free weekend
than in a shady spot beneath the trees, rocking gently in a
country-style hammock, its crochet and tassel edging swaying in the
breeze? Made from cotton and mixed fibres, this Ella James hammock from Not On The High Street has a broad
spreader bar to keep it in shape and loops to attach it are provided,
though a length of rope might be needed depending on the distance
between trees.

3 Natural beauty

Eucalyptus wood has always been a popular choice for outdoor furniture,' says Nicola Gidlow, Buyer for Outdoor Living, John Lewis.
‘It doesn't tend to fade as much as other wood and offers good value
for money. We are seeing eucalyptus being used more often as there have
been advances in the types of finishes that can be applied to it,
lessening the natural pink tones and giving a more luxurious feel.'
Invest in a large footstool along with this rocking chair for the
ultimate in relaxation and to lull you into an indulgent mid-afternoon
slumber.

4 Hanging out

‘Rattan furniture is very fashionable at the
moment as is grey, and here you have the perfect combination of both,'
says Claire Krier, Owner, Idyll Home.
‘A hanging chair has a soothing rocking motion and modern look but the
rattan gives this one a more casual organic impression, softening the
effect. The chair is made from real rattan and painted, so bring it in
after the summer as I don't think it would last a British winter
outdoors.'

5 Mid-century style

It's always a treat to see classics revived to suit the moment, and these 1950s-inspired Acapulco-style chairs from Cox & Cox are no exception. The light, elegant and surprisingly comfortable design, with sunray spokes radiating from a central point, would make an eye-catching addition to any country patio. To create the chairs, durable plastic ‘string' is woven onto a strong metal frame. Don't leave them out for long periods - they'll look just as good indoors.

6 Double daybed

Indulge yourself with a peaceful afternoon on
this eye-catching pod-style daybed, made for two and ideal for a larger
country garden. ‘The daybed offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy
the beauty of an open garden and countryside surroundings,' says
Caroline Harvey, Garden Furniture Buyer for Wyevale
Garden Centres. ‘Since it has an aluminium frame and is constructed
using a synthetic weave, it can be left outside though the cushions will
need to be packed away.'

4 Recline in comfort

If the shape looks familiar, it's because these distinctive slatted-back loungers from Next are based on traditional Adirondack chairs. They need to be assembled but once it's done, you can while away many an afternoon in absolute comfort, with your feet up on the leg rest. These recliners are made from acacia wood, then painted or given an oiled finish. After use, simply fold them away to store them.

Like this? For more ideas and inspirationvisit the Country homes & Interiors homepage.