Garden furniture – description and uses

Definition and history of the ‘ ’ garden furniture

Definition

Garden furniture is a type of equipment designed for outdoor use. It is suitable for use on a terrace, under a conservatory or in a garden. It requires materials specifically designed to withstand all weather conditions. Garden furniture includes garden seating sets, gazebos, children’s play equipment, garden sheds… as well as decorative features.

The garden or terrace is situated at the front or back of the house, but it is always visible from the living room or dining room. This is why it is essential to make this space as pleasant as possible. In recent years, companies specialising in garden furniture have been competing to come up with new ideas, offering you a very wide range of products.

What could be more pleasant than coming out to relax in the garden as soon as the first rays of sunshine appear? Sixty per cent of French people have a garden, and there is no shortage of shops selling garden furniture. You’ll find garden furniture in both large retail outlets and specialist shops. But it’s online that the choice is widest. You can furnish your little corner of paradise to suit your taste and budget.

History

The art of ornamental gardening emerged relatively late. Garden furniture gradually made its way into gardens. It was at the end of the Middle Ages that a distinction began to emerge between the utilitarian garden and the pleasure garden. At that time, the garden served either a practical purpose or was a place for contemplation. They were enclosed by a high outer wall. During the Renaissance, gardens took on a distinct character and became a symbol of refinement. These were private gardens reserved for the aristocracy and certain privileged individuals. From the 17th century onwards, royal gardens reflected a desire for ostentation and wealth. Gardens were adorned with all manner of fanciful features, becoming spectacles in their own right. Benches began to appear along the walking paths, providing essential resting places.

Gardens opened up to the public and became popular around 1850. They evolved into a way of life characterised by charm, serenity and natural beauty. Garden furniture evolved, influenced by various historical conquests. The garden underwent a metamorphosis. It became a reflection of social culture. With economic progress and new discoveries, garden architecture evolved very rapidly. But the most remarkable development came from the materials used to create garden furniture, as well as the designs devised.

The range of garden furniture

Garden seating sets

A garden seating set usually comprises a table and several chairs. The table can be round, oval, square or even hexagonal or octagonal. The dimensions vary greatly. The chairs are chosen to match the style of the table. You can add accessories and cushions to your garden furniture to create a harmonious look. You can complement your garden seating set with pouffes or stools.

There is a wide range of garden furniture available. You’ll find it in all sorts of materials and to suit all budgets. You can buy the complete set or individual pieces separately. The most important factor when choosing your garden furniture will be how you intend to use it. Garden furniture is used for hosting idyllic lunches or simply enjoying a coffee break. It must therefore be comfortable and inviting.

Sofas

Nowadays, there is a full range of outdoor sofas available, offering the same level of comfort, cosiness and style as your indoor furniture. This garden furniture brings you a sense of well-being every day. There are many different models of sofas and armchairs to brighten up your outdoor space or terrace.

You’ll also find coffee tables to match your sofa. The materials used in your outdoor sofa are designed to withstand the elements. They’re washable, durable and comfortable. The design of your garden furniture is often contemporary, with clean, modern lines. The sofas will fit perfectly under a gazebo, arbour or conservatory.

Parasols

To enhance your garden seating area or to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, you’ll need a parasol. It allows you to create a little spot of shade and coolness. A parasol quickly becomes an essential part of your garden furniture set-up. It’s a useful, practical accessory that can be opened and closed as you please.

And for your evenings, or on cooler days, there are heated parasols. This system is very easy to use and allows you to make the most of your garden or patio. The patio heater will blend in perfectly with your garden furniture. They’re made from aluminium, teak, wrought iron and wood, and are covered with a very durable fabric.

Swing benches and hammocks

A swing seat is a swing designed to seat several people. This is why it’s so popular as a piece of garden furniture. The swing seat is very comfortable and allows you to relax on your own or with others. You’ll be charmed by the character and charm your swing seat exudes.

The hammock is made of canvas or netting. It is suspended from a frame or between two trees. It allows you to rest in complete tranquillity. With a hammock, you can really pamper yourself. And what could be more idyllic than seeing a hammock in your garden? A hammock is a charming addition to your garden furniture.

Sun lounger and bench

A sun lounger allows you to sunbathe by the pool or relax in the shade of a grove. The sun lounger is an integral part of garden furniture. You’ll find a wide range of sun loungers; some have a futuristic, stylish design, whilst others resemble a comfortable, cosy bed. The materials used range from simple metal tubing covered with canvas for entry-level models to polyethylene frames for top-of-the-range models.

You’ll always find space to fit a bench into your garden. All it takes is a small, unused corner. The bench can be simple or rustic. It can be made of wood, stone or wrought iron, depending on the style of your garden furniture. You’ll always appreciate it whilst out for a stroll or for an intimate chat.

Cushions

What would your garden furniture be without cushions? You’ll find a complete range of seat cushions in shimmering, multicoloured shades. Most cushions are made from 100% cotton canvas; they’re very hard-wearing, have removable covers and are washable. And to complete your outdoor décor, there’s a whole range of table linen. All these products will give your garden furniture endless charm.

You can match them with garden furniture made of wood, metal or stone. They come in all sizes, whether for chairs, sun loungers, benches or swing seats… The prices of these products remain reasonable, allowing you to change the cushions and padded items regularly. This means you can tailor the comfort and décor of your garden to suit your every whim.

Other accessories and equipment

General information

You’ll find garden furniture designed specifically for your little ones. These include tables, chairs and parasols decorated with their favourite cartoon characters. Your children will love this space and enjoy playing there under their parents’ watchful eye.

And if you enjoy entertaining, what could be more pleasant than having garden furniture suited to this purpose? Indeed, a serving trolley quickly proves indispensable, whether for serving aperitifs or bringing out food from the barbecue. Serving trolleys are practical, attractive and complement your garden furniture. Most serving trolleys have small castors, making it easier to serve at the table.

You’ll find a wide range of garden furniture accessories. These accessories come in a variety of materials; you’ll need to find the ones that suit you best. There are shelves you can install near the barbecue. These allow you to store the equipment you need for cooking. You’ll also appreciate sets comprising a table and a sink attached to the barbecue. And if you’re having trouble finding garden furniture that meets your requirements, You have the option of ordering bespoke garden furniture. This will allow you to make the most of your outdoor space, whatever size it may be. You could also install a swimming pool, though this is not covered in detail in this article.

Arbours, gazebos and pergolas

Arbours, gazebos and pergolas are all forms of garden furniture. They’re the ideal solution for enjoying your garden whatever the weather. Whether the sky is overcast or the sun is shining brightly, you’ll be able to entertain your friends in the shade. Arbours become an extension of your home, like an extra living space. They can be attached to a wall, allowing you to enjoy pleasant moments on your patio or terrace.

Some gazebos, arbour-style structures or pergolas are covered with mould-resistant fabric that you can take down. Others have a more romantic feel, made from wrought iron, wood or aluminium. With this style of arbour, you can create a green oasis by planting climbing roses, clematis, jasmine or honeysuckle. Your garden furniture becomes the setting for a lush, green space to be arranged.

Trellises and fencing

To complete the architecture of your outdoor space, you can add decorative trellises and fences. All these structural elements will lend an extra touch of magic to your garden furniture. There is a wide range of designs in wood or metal that will create illusions of perspective. Combinations of balustrades, palisades or espaliers will immerse you in a setting of interlacing patterns and optical illusions.

You can easily install arches and trellises in your garden or on a bare wall. All sorts of plants and flowers will thrive as they climb along these supports. You can thus create a living backdrop around your garden furniture. The beauty of it will cast a spell over you and your guests.

Garden shed

Manufacturers are drawing on a wealth of imagination to create garden sheds that are more practical, safer and more functional. Whilst they form part of your garden furniture, they are effectively a room in their own right. The shed can be built against a wall of your house or freestanding. In either case, you must ensure you comply with current regulations regarding its construction. Some sheds require foundations; you must bear in mind the safety of those who will use it.

A garden shed can serve as a garage or for storing gardening and DIY tools, but it is also a living space that opens out onto the garden. The materials used for construction can include timber, metal or PVC. Sizes range from 4 m² to 30 m²; virtually anything is possible. The garden shed should complement the style of your garden furniture and your home.

Garden play equipment

The range of garden play equipment is extensive and sure to delight children. Garden play equipment forms part of your garden’s recreational furnishings. Its primary purpose is play, fun and sharing. Your little ones should be able to let off steam, have a go and discover themselves through play.

The range of garden play equipment is available in metal or wood. You’ll find climbing frames, slides, trampolines, playhouses… Whenever you install these products, you must ensure you follow the safety standards recommended by the manufacturer. Climbing frames and certain slides must be anchored to the ground. For your children’s safety, they must be supervised by an adult whilst using the play equipment. You should choose the location of the play equipment carefully, taking into account the size of your garden and the style of your garden furniture. Don’t forget that children need plenty of space to play safely around the play equipment.

Barbecues

One of the joys of entertaining in the garden is the barbecue. It’s a great way to bring friends and family together as soon as the sun comes out. You’ll find a wide range of barbecues in garden furniture shops. They come in gas, charcoal or electric versions. Designers offer very stylish barbecues with features that will impress your guests.

Barbecues are designed for cooking food, but they also add a touch of conviviality and style to your garden furniture. However, you must ensure you use the barbecue correctly. It must be kept under constant supervision, sheltered from the wind and placed on a stable surface. Unfortunately, every year barbecues cause a number of burns due to incorrect use. You must strictly adhere to the safety guidelines issued by the manufacturer.

Materials used in garden furniture

Natural stone

Stone is a fragment of natural rock. It is durable, timeless and imperishable. Some garden furniture may be made of marble or granite. This material features variations in colour and texture that are unique to each type of stone. Stone and marble will emphasise your desire for naturalness and authenticity. Your outdoor space will be enhanced by this timeless material.

The main drawback of this material is its weight. Indeed, you’ll need to choose the location of your garden furniture carefully, as moving it will be a struggle. It may seem ill-suited to the modern world, but its charm is undeniable. These pieces are expensive. However, you can unearth items at an antique dealer’s or tucked away in farmhouses at an affordable price, yet they will have a decorative and original effect.

The advantage of stone is its durability and the fact that it requires no maintenance. You simply need to wash your garden furniture with either clean water or a mild soap. On marble, you must not use any detergent whatsoever. The types of stone used include granite, sandstone, limestone, slate and marble. Some designs combine stone with other materials such as metal or aluminium.

Reconstituted stone

Reconstituted stone is a high-quality material for outdoor design, available at a reasonable price. Reconstituted stone is made from natural materials that have been crushed and reformed through moulding. This process allows for the creation of any piece of garden furniture. The finish can vary greatly and be tailored to suit the region and the surroundings of your home.

Garden furniture sets made from reconstituted stone are often very attractive and add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space. They require virtually no maintenance and are highly durable. They also blend in beautifully with a conservatory, patio or arbour. Some pieces are clad in mosaic, ceramic or slate, giving them a poetic charm. You’ll also find combinations of materials for your garden furniture. Reconstituted stone can be combined with wrought iron, aluminium or even exotic materials such as bamboo or rattan.

Plastic materials

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the best-selling material in garden furniture. All types of garden furniture are available, in every shape and form, and in a wide range of colours. The items are very durable and easy to maintain. Their lifespan will be extended if the garden furniture is stored indoors during the winter. You can also invest in a protective cover.

The main advantage of PVC garden furniture is its very attractive price. What’s more, it is lightweight, making it easy to move around and arrange. This material is UV-resistant. Its drawback is its lack of aesthetic appeal and elegance. With PVC, your garden’s style will be impersonal and run-of-the-mill.

There is also resin garden furniture, which perfectly imitates rattan or wicker. The ranges on offer are stylish and comfortable. They are weather-resistant, and the textures are pleasant and soft to the touch. The frame of resin garden furniture is sturdy and easy to maintain. The prices are very affordable and the quality lends a distinctive, welcoming charm to your relaxation area.

Batyline

A range of Batyline products has recently begun to appear on garden furniture shelves. This technology is based on the weaving of extrusion-coated threads. This material guarantees impeccable shape retention. The seat does not lose its shape but remains very comfortable. The resulting effect resembles a kind of openwork fabric, available in a range of colours.

Garden furniture made from Batyline offers excellent resistance to the elements and to the damaging effects of UV rays. Your Batyline garden furniture can be left outside all year round without fear of mould. To clean your furniture, simply wipe it down with a sponge and soapy water. Furthermore, this material is 100% recyclable and eco-designed. The frames used with Batyline are made from aluminium or wood.

Folding furniture

We stock folding garden furniture with frames made from wood, hard plastic or metal. These models offer a much-loved and practical bistro-style look. They can be set up and taken away in no time. They are ideal for small spaces, whether on a terrace or a balcony. This type of garden furniture is manufactured to precise standards of quality and durability.

We also stock folding garden furniture made from canvas. The chairs are very comfortable and come in a variety of colours and materials. When it comes to garden furniture, you should choose a washable fabric, either 100 per cent cotton or 100 per cent polyester woven canvas. Folding chairs are lightweight and resistant to moisture and UV rays. They can easily be stored away once summer is over, taking up very little space.

Leather

In recent years, garden furniture has become available in nappa leather. This is lambskin that has been dyed by immersion and treated with a protective surface finish. It is a robust yet supple leather. Its quality gives it an authentic look and makes it weather- and UV-resistant.

This garden furniture is designed for outdoor use. However, it is best to keep it sheltered under a parasol or a pergola. Nappa leather garden furniture is very elegant and expensive. Leather care involves regularly moisturising your garden furniture. If a stain occurs, you should clean it with soapy water, but without using any solvents. It is, however, advisable to protect your leather garden furniture during the winter months.

Fibreglass

Fibreglass has revolutionised the industry, and its applications span a wide range of fields, including garden furniture. Its mechanical properties give it exceptional strength and undeniable lightness. In garden furniture, fibreglass is used as a reinforcement in composite materials.

Garden furniture made from fibreglass includes chairs, tables and armchairs. These sets are comfortable and attractively designed. They are very easy to maintain and offer good durability. The price of a fibreglass garden set is similar to that of a high-end PVC garden set.

Plant-based fibres

Among the plant fibres used in the design of garden furniture are rattan, wicker, bamboo, water hyacinth fibre and banana leaf. Garden furniture made from water hyacinth fibre and banana leaf is a very recent development but has a promising future. These textures are rather luxurious, yet will blend perfectly with your outdoor space.

Bamboo garden furniture is ideal. Bamboo is characterised by its elasticity, lightness and strength. These three qualities make it an excellent choice for your garden furniture set. Furthermore, as bamboo grows exceptionally quickly, its environmental impact is very limited.

Wicker or rattan garden furniture has been around since the time of the Egyptians and remains as popular as ever with consumers. It fits perfectly into a pleasure garden or a conservatory. The furniture is sturdy, has a warm, comfortable and very stylish look. Garden furniture can be covered in loom. Loom is a mechanically woven material made from twisted kraft paper cord wound around a stainless steel wire. This almost plant-based composite is suitable for use on a wicker or rattan frame.

The downside of garden furniture made from plant fibres is its sensitivity to damp. It is essential to store your garden furniture indoors during the winter and to protect it from bad weather. It is also sensitive to UV rays and the cold. Maintaining garden furniture is very simple. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth; for stubborn stains, use hot water mixed with Saint-Marc washing-up liquid.

Metal

Wrought iron

Wrought-iron garden furniture is very popular and gives your garden a romantic feel. Designers are constantly coming up with new, trendier and more elegant designs. What’s more, metal garden furniture comes in a range of colours and can be complemented with pretty cushions for your chairs and armchairs and a lovely tablecloth for your table. Modern techniques allow for more stylish and lightweight designs. All your garden furniture can be made of wrought iron – the garden lounge set, the parasol, the gazebos and the flower pots – all of which will enhance your country-style décor.

Metal garden furniture is both indestructible and attractive. Throughout the lifespan of your wrought-iron furniture, you can always refurbish it, whether to give it a fresh new look or to change the colour. To protect the environment, we recommend using a solvent-free paint. It is worth noting that iron and steel are 98 per cent recyclable metals.

When purchased, wrought iron garden furniture is hot-dip galvanised, which gives it excellent resistance to the elements and corrosion. Iron can be finished with various coatings, giving it a raw, naturally aged, varnished or even epoxy-coated appearance. Despite anti-corrosion and UV-protection treatments, your furniture may develop patches of rust. In this case, you should scrape off the rust with a wire brush and apply a rust converter; once dry, touch up the paint in the same colour.

Aluminium

Aluminium is a lightweight, malleable and durable metal that is ideal for garden furniture. It is highly resistant to corrosion and has a long lifespan. Furthermore, aluminium is easily recyclable, which is a significant environmental benefit. It is, by nature, an inexpensive material.

Aluminium garden furniture often features a seat made from sling – a type of rigid plastic – or woven resin. The result is elegant, comfortable, high-quality furniture with a stylish design. It is often available as high-end products. Aluminium garden furniture is highly weather-resistant. Aluminium can have a lacquered, brushed or anodised finish.

Cast iron

Cast iron is an alloy of various types of iron. Its main characteristic is its castability, which allows it to be moulded into any shape. In garden furniture, steel cast iron or stainless steel cast iron is used, which provides corrosion resistance, ductility and weldability. Despite these characteristics, cast iron components do not withstand impacts well and can break.

Traditionally, garden furniture was made from cast iron. Many decorative items made from cast iron can still be found today. Given the weight of cast-iron garden furniture and its fragility, it is best to place it on covered patios.

Wood

Teak

Teak is a tropical tree native mainly to Asia. It is a valuable, rot-resistant wood, perfectly suited to the design of garden furniture. It is moisture-resistant, strong and extremely durable. Garden furniture made from teak has a beige-brown colour that darkens over time. It is a wood that feels oily to the touch and has a scent reminiscent of old copper.

There is a very wide range of teak garden furniture available. You’ll also find teak swings, sun loungers, coffee tables and parasols. They are very attractive, last a very long time, and give your garden an unrivalled exotic atmosphere. Your patio becomes a welcoming and relaxing space for the whole family and friends.

Teak garden furniture can be left outside all year round. It is a durable exotic wood, but its colour will gradually turn a silvery grey. To preserve the teak’s lustre, you can treat the wood once a year. After cleaning the furniture with soapy water, you should coat the wood with a special teak oil. Teak is a slow-growing tree species and is now harvested sustainably, which makes it quite expensive.

Other woods

Among the woods used for garden furniture, we also find ash, oak, chestnut, pine, acacia and eucalyptus… It is fair to say that wood is making a major comeback in the outdoor furniture sector. Wood is an environmentally friendly material. However, one must remain very vigilant regarding the origin and place of production of the wood.

The strictest regulations apply in Europe. You can therefore consider buying garden furniture made from local woods, without worrying about deforestation and whilst minimising transport-related pollution. These woods are autoclave-treated. They are suited to local climatic conditions. They are affordable, and maintenance requires only an annual application of a specific oil.

However, certain tropical timber species are under threat. You must be very careful about the origin of exotic woods such as eucalyptus, ipé and teak, which are often the subject of illegal imports. When buying garden furniture made from exotic wood, check the labels and the relevant standards. The FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) labels provide proof of the timber’s traceability and the legality of its import.

Composite timber

Composite wood is a mixture of PVC and wood. It is made from wood waste generated by industry and recycled plastics. It offers an excellent alternative to the use of untreated wood. Garden furniture made from composite wood is attractive, comfortable and, above all, requires no maintenance. It is a healthy material that is easily recyclable.

Garden furniture made from composite wood resembles solid wood. It retains the warm appearance of wood and offers exceptional durability. The furniture is resistant to UV rays, impact and the elements, whilst having a minimal impact on the environment. Your garden furniture will retain its charm and quality for many, many years to come.

Eco-designed garden furniture

Eco-design

Eco-designed garden furniture reflects a commitment to creating products that adhere to the principles of sustainable development. This term takes into account environmental impacts, as well as the manufacture and development of the product throughout its entire life cycle. This includes raw materials, design, distribution, logistics, emissions into the air and water, and product recycling. It is therefore a preventative approach characterised by a holistic perspective.

Your garden furniture will have a limited impact on the environment throughout its lifetime. It is therefore up to you to act in an environmentally responsible manner after purchasing your garden furniture. If you wish to replace your furniture, consider selling it on or donating it if it is still in good condition. A handy DIY enthusiast could give them a new lease of life with a few creative ideas. If your furniture is worn out or too damaged, take it to the recycling centre so that it can be disposed of properly.

Eco-designed wood

When it comes to wooden garden furniture, eco-design is primarily determined by the origin of the wood. Wood may seem like the most eco-friendly choice, but the environmental impact of its harvesting can be disastrous. Exotic woods are the most threatened by deforestation and the destruction of ecosystems. Some countries, such as Brazil, Indonesia and Cameroon, have no qualms about illegally exporting tropical timber. The colossal profits generated by this trafficking benefit only a handful of large industrial groups or local mafias, but never the indigenous population.

To make the right choice when selecting your wooden garden furniture, there are authoritative websites such as the WWF, which provides lists of endangered tree species. Before making a purchase, it is essential that you read the environmental certification labels on the products. International certifications such as FSC or PEFC, and the TFT logo, guarantee the traceability of the timber, responsible forest management practices, respect for the environment and compliance with social criteria. You should do your research before buying.

There are alternatives to exotic timber. You can opt for local woods such as pine, beech, oak and chestnut… Timber sourced from Europe ensures respect for biodiversity and sustainable forest management. A label does not guarantee the quality of garden furniture, but it helps prevent the overexploitation of the world’s natural resources and protects the planet. The most effective approach is never to buy garden furniture that does not specify the type of wood used.

Eco-designed materials

There are many other materials used to make garden furniture, such as PVC, aluminium, resin, rattan and bamboo… None of these materials is perfect. PVC is the most criticised due to the additives used in its manufacture. These additives are highly harmful to both humans and the environment. Furthermore, recycling PVC garden furniture remains a genuine, unresolved problem.

Some garden furniture requires maintenance. You should look after your furniture without using toxic products. To maintain wooden furniture, you should apply vegetable oils and clean it with a simple steel wool pad or very fine sandpaper. You should check the treatments applied to your wooden or metal garden furniture. New processes now make it possible to offer non-toxic, plant-based treatments such as asam, or heat-treated or retified wood.

Safety rules and advice on installing garden furniture

Safety rules

Wherever you are, you should always take certain precautions to ensure your leisure activities go smoothly. Your garden furniture should pose as little risk as possible. Outdoor spaces harbour a significant number of hazards. To maximise safety, you should buy garden furniture bearing the CE mark. This certification guarantees compliance with current European safety regulations.

Garden play areas are a big hit with your little ones. However, you must pay attention to the ground surface beneath climbing frames, slides and other playhouses. Falls are common on this type of garden furniture. It is best to opt for rubber surfacing or synthetic paving slabs. If you have a sandpit, make sure you clean it regularly. They quickly become breeding grounds for germs due to decomposing leaves and animal droppings. There is a European directive that sets out safety requirements for all such products. In France, it is the NF S 54-100 standard that sets out the safety requirements for domestic play areas. All you need to do is check thoroughly that the components and fixings are secure.

Garden furniture must comply with the NF EN 581-3 standard. This ensures that garden furniture meets mechanical safety requirements. You may also come across strength tests governed by the CTBA 14199 protocol. It is important to be aware of these regulations before purchasing garden furniture. If you have a glass table top, it must comply with the NF EN 12543 standard. This type of glass is durable and suitable for family use. Most European manufacturers offer products that meet stringent safety standards.

If you have a swimming pool, extra vigilance is required. There are several ways to prevent accidents. You can find safety covers that comply with the NF P 90-308 standard. These covers can be used all year round and secure access to the pool. Then there are perimeter alarms. A siren sounds whenever there is an intrusion within a predefined perimeter. You can also surround your swimming pool with a fence fitted with a safety barrier. This safety barrier must comply with the AFNOR NF P 90-306 standard. You’ll find a wide range of safety systems to ensure you can enjoy your garden furniture to the full.

Installation tips

With the arrival of spring, you’ll be setting up your outdoor living spaces, whether to relax or to entertain friends. It’s important to choose your garden furniture carefully, as it’s a long-term investment. Garden furniture should be high-quality, comfortable, stylish, safe and suited to your needs.

Garden furniture can be placed in the middle of the garden to make the most of the sun, or, conversely, in a shaded spot to enjoy the coolness. The choice of material will depend on the intended use and where it is to be placed. Weather resistance must be taken into account. Garden furniture should be easy to maintain, either with soapy water or a protective product.

If you choose to set up your garden furniture in a tree-lined area, opt for PVC, stone or aluminium. These materials are easy to maintain, and their light weight will be a bonus if you want to move or store them. If your garden furniture is placed on a terrace or in a conservatory, it is best to choose more premium materials such as teak, wicker or wrought iron. If your garden furniture is to remain outside throughout the winter, metal, teak and stone are recommended. You’ll, of course, find further information and advice on the ‘Habitat et Jardin’ website.