Ask the designer: Garden furniture

Q. With summer finally upon us, I’d love some advice on the different types of garden furniture available?

A. Natural wood furniture remains a firm favourite with homeowners. Hardwood teak table and chairs will last many years and gradually turn a silvery-grey colour, which looks great next to vegetation. Alternatively, it can be treated annually with an appropriate wood oil to give a more finished look.

Cast aluminum — which has the look of wrought iron but is more lightweight and durable — is another option. It’s usually finished with powder coat paint to ensure it doesn’t rust and is sometimes combined with a natural stone or tiled table top for a country garden feel. Natural rattan or wicker does not withstand the elements very well so is best suited to indoors. However, you can also get outdoor synthetic rattan furniture which is UV light resistant so it won’t fade.