Catch Me Outside

Everything you need to know to make the most of your outdoor spaces

- Edwain Steenkamp

Wood works

Wood makes for beautiful outdoor furniture, but you need to be very selective about the pieces you invest in to ensure you don’t end up with dull, sun-damaged surfaces over time. Teak is by far the superior choice. The tropical hardwood can withstand harsh UV rays and is resistant to water and chlorine. To care for it, you need only periodically wash the wood with a soft-bristle brush, and polish with a teak treatment to retain shine.

A Soft Landing

You want comfortable, statement outdoor furniture, but you also need to consider durability, weather-resistance, and maintenance. Soft furnishings are the most challenging area in which to marry these two sets of demands. Choose items stuffed with a quick-drying foam filling, and covered in a fabric made of polyester (mostly water-resistant and easy to clean), polypropylene (chemical resistant and extremely durable) or marine vinyl (durable and UV resistant).

1. ‘BARCELONA’ CONCRETE-TOP BISTRO TABLE, R10 495, BLOC OUTDOOR;

2. BALINESE CEREMONIAL UMBRELLA AND STAND, R2 850, PILGRIMAGE SPACES;

3. ROCKER CHAIR, R1 463, CHAIR CRAZY;