Planning the perfect outdoor space can be exciting, but selecting furniture that lasts and suits your lifestyle isn’t always easy. Many homeowners end up with pieces that fade, wear out quickly, or don’t fit their space properly.
At Custom Built, we understand the challenges of creating outdoor spaces that are both functional and inviting. With decades of experience helping Michigan families design decks, patios, and outdoor living areas, we know what works and what doesn’t.
In this article, we’ll share eight common mistakes homeowners make when selecting outdoor furniture, along with practical tips to avoid them. From materials and climate considerations to comfort, scale, and style, you’ll learn how to create a space that looks great, feels comfortable, and stands the test of time:
- Choosing Indoor Furniture for Outdoor Spaces
- Ignoring Your Climate and Weather Conditions
- Picking the Wrong Size or Scale
- Sacrificing Comfort for Style
- Following Short-Term Trends Instead of Timeless Designs
- Forgetting About Storage for Cushions and Accessories
- Overlooking Safety and Long-Term Maintenance Needs
- Forgetting to Match Furniture with Your Deck or Patio Design
1. Choosing Indoor Furniture for Outdoor Spaces
Indoor furniture may seem convenient, but it isn’t designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Using the wrong materials can lead to warping, mold, and fading.
Why This Matters:
- Water damage can rot wood decks or ruin fabrics quickly.
- Sun exposure fades colors and finishes, making furniture look older than it is.
- Maintenance becomes more time-consuming and expensive than anticipated.
Design Tips:
- Choose furniture made specifically for outdoor use: aluminum, teak, weather-resistant wicker, or treated wood.
- Select fabrics rated for UV and moisture resistance.
- Consider modular or easily movable pieces for flexibility and longevity.
2. Ignoring Your Climate and Weather Conditions
Michigan’s weather can be tough on outdoor furniture, with heavy snow, rain, humidity, and seasonal swings. Understanding your climate is crucial to making choices that last.
Why This Matters:
- Cushions that trap water can develop mold in rainy climates.
- Dust and pollen from surrounding farmland or trees can require constant cleaning.
- Inadequate weather resistance reduces the lifespan of furniture and creates extra maintenance.
Design Tips:
- Use quick-dry cushions for wet climates.
- Opt for materials that can be hosed off or wiped down easily.
- Invest in furniture covers or storage solutions for off-season protection.
3. Picking the Wrong Size or Scale
The layout and size of your outdoor furniture impact flow, comfort, and usability. Overcrowded or undersized furniture can make your deck less enjoyable.
Why This Matters:
- Poor traffic flow can make outdoor spaces feel cramped.
- Inadequate seating can leave guests uncomfortable or limit entertaining.
- Improper scale affects aesthetics and usability.
Design Tips:
- Measure your deck or patio before purchasing furniture.
- Use modular seating, ottomans, or multifunctional pieces to maximize flexibility.
- Incorporate seating with storage or tables that double as benches for extra options.
4. Sacrificing Comfort for Style
Some trendy outdoor furniture may look appealing, but is uncomfortable for everyday use. Opt for pieces that strike a balance between style and comfort, so your family actually wants to spend time outside.
Why This Matters:
- Guests may avoid sitting in areas that are stylish but hard or poorly designed.
- Long-term usability is compromised if comfort is overlooked.
- Outdoor living loses its purpose without cozy, functional furniture.
Design Tips:
- Test cushions and seating for back support and depth.
- Balance aesthetic choices with comfort-focused designs.
- Choose pieces that encourage relaxation and socializing.
5. Following Short-Term Trends Instead of Timeless Designs
Furniture trends come and go, but outdoor furniture is a long-term investment. Choosing durable, high-quality pieces ensures your backyard remains inviting for years to come.
Why This Matters:
- Trendy pieces may look dated within a few years.
- Constant updates increase costs and reduce sustainability.
- Timeless designs maintain visual appeal over decades.
Design Tips:
- Stick with classic shapes and neutral tones.
- Accent with seasonal pillows, throws, or planters to refresh the look.
- Include practical features like built-in fire elements or modular sections.
6. Forgetting About Storage for Cushions and Accessories
Outdoor cushions, throws, and accessories need proper storage to stay in good condition. Investing in waterproof storage solutions can help protect them from Michigan’s unpredictable weather.
Why This Matters:
- Exposure to weather elements shortens the life of cushions and decor.
- Poor storage increases maintenance and replacement costs.
- Organization improves the usability of your outdoor space.
Design Tips:
- Consider integrated storage benches or boxes for cushions and accessories.
- Keep smaller items in a garage or shed during the winter months.
- Look for multifunctional furniture with hidden storage compartments.
7. Overlooking Safety and Long-Term Maintenance Needs
Safety and durability are crucial for outdoor furniture, especially in windy or high-traffic areas. Choosing sturdy, weather-resistant materials ensures your furniture lasts while keeping everyone safe.
Why This Matters:
- Unstable or fragile furniture can cause injuries or damage.
- Poorly designed sections may pull apart or collapse under weight.
- Maintenance requirements impact long-term enjoyment and cost.
Design Tips:
- Ensure sectional connections are secure.
- Avoid fragile glass tops or lightweight aluminum pieces in exposed areas.
- Choose durable, low-maintenance materials like composites or treated wood.
8. Forgetting to Match Furniture with Your Deck or Patio Design
Outdoor furniture should complement your home and deck style for a cohesive look. Choosing colors, materials, and shapes that harmonize with your existing design helps create a seamless, inviting outdoor space.
Why This Matters:
- Mismatched furniture can make an otherwise beautiful space feel chaotic.
- Poor color coordination limits seasonal flexibility in decor.
- Style alignment enhances both visual appeal and property value.
Design Tips:
- Match furniture style to your home’s architecture (e.g., wicker for cottages, clean lines for modern homes).
- Stick with neutral base tones and rotate seasonal accents.
- Coordinate color and material with your deck or patio finishes.
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Outdoor Living Space
Choosing the right outdoor furniture sets the stage for every gathering, every quiet morning coffee, and every long summer evening on your deck. The right pieces aren’t just about looks. They make your outdoor space functional, comfortable, and durable for years to come.
By considering materials, climate, scale, storage, and long-term maintenance, you now have a more precise roadmap to make wise decisions for your deck or patio.
At Custom Built, we guide homeowners through every detail of outdoor living design, ensuring your furniture complements your space and stands up to Michigan’s weather.
Start planning your outdoor space with these tips in mind, and consider consulting a professional to create a functional, stylish, and long-lasting retreat for your family and guests.
Now that you know more about mistakes to avoid while choosing your outdoor furniture, let’s explore the top outdoor heating ideas, how much composite decks cost, and the projects that can increase the resale value of your home:
- Top 8 Outdoor Heating Ideas for Your Deck or Patio - Discover popular outdoor heating ideas that will keep your deck or patio cozy for years.
- How Much Do Composite Decks Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - An overview of how much your Lansing composite deck will cost and the factors that will influence your price.
- 5 Remodeling Projects That Can Increase Resale Value - A high-level review of the various remodeling projects that will increase your home’s resale value, curb appeal, and return on investment.
