After D.A Gracey & Associates have built your dream landscape for you, there are usually still a few things required to complete the project. Site furnishings are a high impact, finishing touch that also serves to impart your personal style and stamp upon the landscape.

Perhaps you crave a classic look – teak benches, table and chairs that will gradually weather to a soft grey, and require very little maintenance. Or vintage wicker; although it requires maintenance, it is another classic look that is well suited to heritage style homes and covered porches and patios.

Modern wicker furniture is actually created out of a synthetic resin that will not fade, crack or peel and can be left outdoors year round. Although we do recommend a cover that will keep the cushions dry and stop colour fading from the sun. This wicker comes in a variety of styles, colours, and budgets. Oversize lounges and chairs with deep, comfortable outdoor cushions are a great way to create a relaxing lounge area; perfect for relaxing with friends and family.

If you like more of an eclectic look – mix and match your pieces in a variety of styles and materials, but tie the look together with bright and colourful cushions that add cohesiveness. This is usually a less expensive choice, as you can sometimes use the best of your existing pieces of outdoor furniture, and find some solo sale pieces that can fill in the gaps. Use some unexpected bits and pieces as well, perhaps as a side table or accent piece.

Cushions in an outdoor Sunbrella fabric are available in multitudes of colours. Sometimes selecting the perfect shade that makes you happy and matches your furniture is one of the hardest decisions you have to make. There are also many choices in outdoor carpets; I love the look of a carpet underneath a seating area on a deck or patio. It seems to be a real finishing touch.

Take the opportunity to ditch the white plastic, stackable chairs, the foldup chairs you take camping, and create the perfect final touch to your new landscape construction installation.

Post written by:  Christine Gracey, OALA, CSLA