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Written by Ryan Castillo
With its centuries-old weaving technique and organic textures, wicker offers a delightful way to infuse warmth and character into the living spaces of your home. From a coastal-inspired oasis to a bohemian retreat to a classic and inviting atmosphere, wicker seamlessly adapts to a diverse range of interior styles. In this Redfin article, we will explore the versatility and allure of wicker furniture, decor accents, and even textured wallpapers that can breathe new life into your home. So whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Indianapolis or purchase a home in Charleston, discover the beauty of this age-old craftsmanship and uncover how wicker can elevate your home’s design.
Wicker is a versatile and time-honored material used to craft furniture, baskets, and various decorative items. “Wicker furniture and accessories are made from natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, or reed. It brings an organic and earthy vibe to your living space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere,” says Santa Barbara Interiors.
Creating wicker involves intertwining these flexible materials into intricate patterns, often forming a strong and lightweight structure. Wicker’s history can be traced back to ancient Egypt, and its popularity has endured through the ages due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
“Wicker and rattan are popular choices for interior design as these materials are lightweight, durable, and add natural texture to the home,” shares Morgan Desquenne of 3DVIA. “Wicker and rattan can be used in various ways, from side chairs to coffee tables to poofs, stools, and even bed frames.”
CASS Design Co. notes, “Our best tip to use wicker in a way that elevates your space versus making it feel dated is to use it sparingly. Think accent pieces like lighting, side tables, side chairs or benches, or even vases. When you add these pieces here and there, it adds an element of warmth and interest. If it’s overdone, like an entire matching set, there isn’t as much visual interest.”
Here are 10 more ways to easily include wicker design in your home.
Wicker planters are stylish and functional containers specifically designed for holding and showcasing plants, flowers, and herbs.
“Bring a touch of nature indoors by using wicker planters to display your favorite houseplants. These planters can be placed on window sills, shelves, or even hung from the ceiling to create an eye-catching display. The combination of green foliage and the earthy tones of wicker creates a soothing and inviting atmosphere in your home,” notes Wicker Guides.
Wicker lighting fixtures bring nature-inspired aesthetics and warm illumination to any living space. Whether in pendant lights, chandeliers, or table lamps, these fixtures cast beautiful patterns of light and shadows that infuse the room with a cozy and inviting ambiance.
“Wicker lighting is a great way to create ambiance,” notes Cottage Culture. “The natural fibers of the lamp soften and warm the space while the soft cascading pattern of light that falls from a chandelier truly sets a mood. Don’t have space for a chandelier? Try a wicker floor lamp to add interest to your space.”
Wicker headboards offer rustic charm to bedroom decor, adding texture and warmth to the overall ambiance. Their woven design, typically crafted from materials like rattan or willow, provides a lightweight and airy feel while still serving as a sturdy and supportive backdrop for the bed.
Bree Kotwitz of Wicker Baskt says to, “Give your bedroom a touch of bohemian charm by incorporating a wicker headboard. The natural texture of wicker adds a cozy and inviting feel to the room, especially when paired with soft bedding and neutral tones to create a serene and stylish haven.”
Wicker coffee tables are eye-catching pieces of furniture. “An easy way to add wicker into your home is through a coffee table tray. Add a cute book and plant, and you’ve got a beautiful vignette,” says NB Design Group.
Wicker trunks come in various sizes, from small decorative pieces to larger storage containers, making them suitable for use in bedrooms, living rooms, or even outdoor spaces.
Kim Turner, Principal and Designer at Kim Turner Design, and Advancement Director at Dwell with Dignity notes, “A wicker trunk placed at the foot of a bed serves as an excellent storage solution for extra bedding. In a guest room, it provides a convenient space to stash additional blankets for those who might feel chilly during the night. It also allows you to include extra pillows with varying firmness levels, offering guests a personalized and comfortable sleeping experience.”
Wicker chairs are classic seating options that combine comfort, style, and natural elegance. With their lightweight yet durable construction, wicker chairs are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
“Place wicker chairs in your living room, paired with plush cushions to create a cozy reading corner,” recommends Zen Candles Design. “Opt for neutral colors like cream, beige, or pastel hues to create a cohesive look that is both serene and sophisticated.”
Wicker panels and wallpaper are innovative and stylish ways to incorporate the natural appeal of wicker into interior design without the need for actual woven materials.
“Make a striking first impression by covering an accent wall with woven wicker panels or textured wicker wallpaper,” says Lori of Our Repurposed Home. “ Wrap some old books with wicker wallpaper sheets and place them on a shelf and a few plants in wicker baskets. It will give your arrangement some texture and interest. Cover your traditional painted stair risers with wicker panels or wallpaper, adding a unique and unexpected twist to your staircase.”
Wicker baskets come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and designs. “They are the perfect solution for storing items around the house while presenting an aesthetically pleasing decor element. Store blankets, toys, and more in any room while hiding out of view in decorative wicker baskets,” notes Lauren Tieru of Paige & Rye.
Wicker outdoor furniture comes in various forms, including chairs, sofas, dining sets, loungers, and more, catering to different seating and entertainment needs. Its timeless and versatile design allows it to blend seamlessly with various outdoor settings, from garden patios and balconies to poolside areas and porches.
“Wicker is a great option for outdoor furniture,” notes Tara Rydl, Mom Can Do Anything. “I love my outdoor living space with a wicker couch and wicker swivel chairs. As long as I keep it covered during the winter months, it wears well and holds up nicely.”
Wicker indoor furniture brings a charming and natural touch to interior spaces, infusing them with warmth and texture. Due to its lightweight and versatile nature, wicker furniture can easily move around to suit various arrangements and decor styles. Wicker chairs and sofas are often paired with cushions and upholstery for enhanced comfort and a personalized touch.
“Most think of coastal design or outdoor design when they think of using wicker or rattan, but like wood, wicker can warm up any interior space and add some needed texture so a space doesn’t feel cold,” explains ReAbode. “Don’t be afraid to use wicker or rattan furniture indoors mixed with other contemporary furniture, especially with a cool color scheme of blues and greens – a chair or coffee table can add some much-needed warmth and texture.”
Blog
Who doesn’t love the spontaneity of friends and family dropping over to share the enjoyment of our beautiful summer season. There's something about eating outside on our patio or in the garden that feels a little more special than being indoors. And with surprise guests, you don’t have the stress over planning a visit, or mealtime either. It’s all about enjoyment of the moment!
This warm and sunny time of year reminds me of the relaxed get-togethers in Italy, It also brings to mind Italy’s bountiful lemon harvests along the Amalfi coastline, and more particularly, one of its famous lemon products, Limoncello (although I'm also partial to their heavenly lemon-scented soaps). Limoncello is essentially a liqueur that is made by macerating the outer peel of a lemon's skin in a neutral grain spirit alcohol for several weeks, the peels then removed, and the alcohol diluted with water and sugar.
Limoncello was often, and still is, produced as a homemade liqueur, with recipes passed down through generations. It is typically served as a digestif either after a meal or with a dessert. Otherwise, limoncello can be served as part of a cocktail, with my favourite being the Limoncello Spritz, a favourite of my friends as well! Whether you have made your own or have a store-bought bottle stashed away for just such occasions, what better way to enjoy the warmth and relaxation of our lovely summer days, than with spontaneously gathered friends enjoying an al fresco party on a deck or patio, and a toast to our warm summer days, with a Limoncello Spritz.
You can easily extend the party into the evening with a quick and easy dinner including favourite flavours of the season … and the best news? It can still be healthy too when you incorporate seasonal vegetables or fruit! To help you, we have included some quick and easy Al Fresco drink and meal ideas to share with friends or family who drop in this summer, and have you spending less time cooking and more time enjoying friends in lovely weather. The following recipes can be found at the end of this blog.
The Samvaro grouping at Cottage Culture is the perfect choice for these spontaneous get-togethers, as there is a corner sofa, armchairs and a large, taller height coffee table available. It is a modern, yet classic series in anthracite aluminum, with subtle contours creating a pleasant and inviting feel, along with pale grey Olefin fabric (the
European version of Sunbrella) cushions complete with water-repellant lining. The seat height is higher, at 48cm (18 7/8 inches), so it feels more like a dining chair height, which, with the taller height coffee table complete with a stylish storage shelf, makes it perfect for enjoying drinks and snacks.
Or, to keep going with the Al Fresco theme, you could also choose to gather a selection of chairs around an extendable table they don’t need to match! - to seat your clan. Extendable tables are a wonderful way to provide spacious dining for your regular family or friends in your space, yet expand to accommodate, more infrequently, others who may drop-in on occasion, whether spontaneously or for specific holiday meals. Cottage Culture has a selection of these extendable tables in two sizes to accommodate your gathering. And using whatever outdoor chairs you have is an easy way to enjoy the moment with family and friends, free from the stress of organizing an event that needs to be planned down to the finest detail.
To extend that casual and carefree theme, throws or Turkish towels can make a great table cloth and add a spot of colour. Turkish towels, made from long-fibre 100% Turkish cotton, are washable, making them an easy care solution as a spontaneous table cloth at your festivities. And what’s better value than being multi-use these days? Cottage Culture has a wonderful selection, so you are sure to find something which catches your eye.
Finally, pull out your assorted glasses and dishes – it’s casual after all! - then layer in any candles you have handy. And keep throws at hand to ward off any cool breezes as the evening lengthens.
And now for the recipes to complete your Al Fresco celebration. Once your recipe choices are prepped, spend your time relaxing and enjoying your guests !!
Limoncello Spritz
A simple and wonderfully refreshing summer cocktail made from just three ingredients, you’ll definitely enjoy this vinous yet fizzy cocktail! The recipe requires the following:
2 Oz Limoncello
4 Oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
2 Oz Soda Water*
1 Lemon Slice
1 Sprig of Mint
Pour the ingredients, starting with the limoncello and finishing with the sparkling wine, into a large wine glass or tall highball filled with ice. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon slice and mint.
You can also use thyme or basil instead of the mint.
Similarly, consider using champagne or crémant** instead of a prosecco if you prefer something a little drier than prosecco.
Notes:
*I choose a lemon lime flavoured sparkling water for the extra citrus flavour
**I tend to choose a drier sparkling wine - usually a Cremant (~10g/l sugar) (or a Cava (such as Codorniu sparkling at 9g/l sugar))
A quick and easy pasta dinner
While pasta may, for some folks, seem to have a bad rap, it can be part of a healthy dinner when paired with a bounty of seasonal vegetables.
Cook your favourite pasta (maybe try a whole wheat option for a bit more fibre!) according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Heat 1-2 tbsp of oil in a large skillet, and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add slices of zucchini, bell peppers, thinly sliced carrots, mushrooms, fresh peas, or any other vegetables that might need to be slightly cooked.
When the vegetables are just tender, add drained pasta, your favourite greens and herbs, and stir to combine.
Leftover chicken or sausage would bump up the protein and add another flavour element.
Serve topped with parmesan cheese.
Add a bottle of your favourite red - perhaps a lighter Pinot Noir, or a rosé to toast the summer season and you have the recipe for a convivial celebration of the season. Sit back and enjoy!
Grilled Peach & Brie Smothered Chicken
Source: EatingWell Magazine, July/August 2020
This super-fast and healthy smothered chicken tastes best on the deck with a chilled glass of gewürztraminer. The fruity white pairs nicely with the peaches here.
Recipe Summary
Active: 20 mins Total: 20 mins Serves: 4
Serving Size: 3 ounces chicken and 1 ½ cups salad
Ingredients
1 pound chicken cutlets
½ teaspoon ground pepper, divided
¼ teaspoon salt plus 1/8 teaspoon, divided
1 firm ripe peach, halved
4 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves, plus more for garnish
1 (5 ounce) package baby arugula
Directions
Preheat grill to medium-high.
Sprinkle chicken with ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper.
Oil the grill rack.
Grill peach halves, cut-side down, until lightly charred, 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and slice.
Grill the chicken until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part registers 160 degrees F, 3 to 5 minutes. Flip, and top the chicken with the peach slices and cheese. Grill until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part registers 165 degrees F and the cheese is melted, 1 to 2 minutes more.
Whisk oil, vinegar, tarragon and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Add arugula and toss to coat. Serve the chicken on top of the arugula. Garnish with more tarragon, if desired.
Grilled Asparagus (in foil)
Source: Fresh Off the Grid
This simple grilled asparagus recipe is the perfect side dish to make on your next backyard BBQ.
Sometimes we can get so hyper-focused on the main dish that we completely forget to make a side. That’s one of the reasons we love making this foil-packet grilled asparagus! It’s so incredibly easy to make, requires very few ingredients, and can be ready in virtually no time.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 5 mins Cook: 15 mins Total: 20 mins Serves: 4
Tips for the Best Grilled Asparagus
Ingredients
1 lb asparagus
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ lemon, zested
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
This is a super easy dish that comes together in minutes, makes the most of this bountiful seasonal vegetable and is a great way to add a side dish to your meal without dirtying another piece of cookware – perfect for your Al Fresco meals!
Bon Appetit!!
I spent that one lovely warm week in April getting my deck ready for the season, removing winter covers from the metal furniture, washing away all the dregs of the winter, and touching up the stain on the deck where it had gotten worn. And now, if you, like I, have been closely following the Weather Channel meteorologists for their projections of warmer weather, the good news is they are advising that once we are past this unseasonably cool and wet weather, we are moving straight to very warm summer weather! Hooray!
And now, if you are already planning your entertaining for the Victoria Day weekend - our first long weekend which marks the beginning of the summer season - we are with you !! And to help you get started and take some stress out of both the planning and preparations, we have some recipes to share, including salads, a vegetable dish, cookies and a dessert, much of which can be made ahead. That leaves you only to choose your meats! And that choice is easily accomplished with a visit to our neighbouring Hensall facility, Metzger Meats, whether you fancy gourmet hamburgers, footlong hotdogs (a summer tradition!), smoked pork loin chops, or one of their other specialties, such as skewered pork tenderloin medallions, or a selection of their dry aged beef products. Alternatively, you may wish lighter fare than these meats, however delicious, and so we are including a favourite recipe of ours - grilled mango scallop skewers with a spinach toss.
These recipes are easy to make, and a number may be made ahead, to save you precious time when friends and family assemble on your patio or deck to share with you the first warm weather of the season! These tried and tested recipes, listed here, and detailed further below, will serve you well throughout all the summer months, and be a hit with your guests, so don’t think of them as ‘once-and-done’ recipes!
Mango Scallop Skewers with spinach toss – so easy to make
Mediterranean Potato Salad - which uses oil, so make-ahead, and longer lasting
Lesley’s Bok Choy Salad, a treat which provides vegetable goodness and sweet, tangy crunch
Green Beans Gremolata – another easy, make ahead dish to just assemble last minute
Sandra’s Secret Recipe for Dessert – your secret weapon !
Doubletree’s signature chocolate chip cookies – which Doubletree graciously shared publicly during the pandemic – and allows for freezing the dough and baking from frozen
Hands on time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Makes: 4 servings
The combination of sweet mango and buttery scallops makes this dish an easy dinnertime option.
Ingredients:
24 frozen jumbo scallops, thawed
1 mango peeled, pitted and cut in sixteen (16) ¾ inch (2 cm) cubes
2 tbsp butter
2 tsp mustard
Spinach Toss:
6 cups baby spinach
1 sweet red pepper, julienned
1/3 cup peeled julienned mango
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp lemon juice
1tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch each salt and pepper
Alternately thread 3 scallops and 2 mango cubes onto each of 8 metal or soaked wooden skewers.
In a small bowl, gradually whisk butter into mustard; brush half over 1 side of the skewers. Place, buttered side down, on greased grill over medium-high heat. Close lid and grill for 2 minutes. Brush with remaining butter mixture; turn and grill until scallops are opaque, about 2 minutes.
Spinach Toss: Meanwhile, combine spinach, red pepper, mango and red onion; arrange on a platter. Whisk together oil, lemon juice Dijon mustard, salt and pepper; drizzle over salad. Top with skewers.
Baked alternative: On greased, foil-lined baking sheet in 400-degree F (200 C) oven, bake skewers, turning once, until scallops are opaque, about 4 minutes.
About 249 calories per serving.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Serves: 8
Ingredients:
2 pounds redskin potatoes, cooked, cooled and cut into cubes
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, thinly sliced
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup pitted kalamata olives, quartered
3 green onions, washed, thinly sliced
Instructions:
Place the cooked, cubed potatoes in a large bowl.
In a measuring cup, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Pour the dressing mixture over the potatoes and stir gently. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, olives and green onions and gently stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours to allow flavours to blend.
Note: if you’d like to soften the ready-to-eat sun-dried tomatoes in this recipe, place them in the bottom of a colander and drain the cooled potatoes over them.
About 137 calories per serving
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Preparation time: 1 hour
Cuisine: Asian/Chinese
Ingredients:
1/3 cup butter
1 tbsp sesame (or poppy) seeds
1/3 cup sliced almonds
1 head Bok Choy lettuce
3 tbsp soy sauce
1/3 cup vinegar
2/3 cup oil
2/3 cup sugar
1 pkg ramen noodles
Instructions:
Put sliced almonds and sesame (or poppy) seeds into a baking dish along with one package of broken up ramen noodles. (Do not add the space package from the noodles!) Melt the butter and add to the noodle/almond mixture and stir. Brown the mixture in the oven. Allow to cool before serving, and add as a garnish to the salad.
At least two hours before serving, mix the dressing: combine sugar, oil, vinegar and soy sauce in a sauce pan. Bring to a boil and melt the sugar, stirring regularly. Pour mixture into a dish to cool. Refrigerate before serving.
Wash one head of Bok Choy lettuce. Chop the leaves into bite-size pieces. Wrap in a tea towel to dry the leaves.
Combine the lettuce, dressing and garnish at the time you are serving the salad. (Dressing and garnish may be made ahead and stored.)
You can blanch the green beans and make the gremolata in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Then just before dinner, you can reheat the beans and toss on the gremolata. What could be easier!
Ingredients:
1-pound French green beans (haricots vert), trimmed
2 tbsp pine nuts
2 tsp minced garlic (2 cloves)
1 tsp grated lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
3 tbsp minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
3 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 ½ tbsp good olive oil
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add green beans and blanch 2 to 3 minutes, until tender but still crisp. Drain beans in a colander and immediately put them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and preserve their bright green colour.
Place pine nuts in a dry sauté pan over low heat and cook 5 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until lightly browned. Set aside.
Gremolata: toss garlic, lemon zest, parsley, Parmesan and pine nuts together in a small bowl and set aside.
When ready to serve, heat olive oil in a large sauté pan or skillet, over medium-high heat. Drain beans and pat dry. Add beans to skillet and sauté, turning frequently, 2 minutes, until coated with olive oil and heated through. Remove from heat, add gremolata, and toss well. Sprinkle with ¾ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper to taste and serve hot.
Note: A charming Italian friend uses any Gremolata which may be left over, on fresh pasta.
Preparation time: all of 10 minutes or less!
Total time: overnight chilling after assembly
Serves: can be sized according to your number of guests
Your secret weapon! A very flexible, quick and easy dessert recipe, which can be sized according to your number of guests.
Ingredients:
Equal proportions of whipped cream and plain yoghurt
A selection of tangy fruit, such as:
Instructions:
Put your choice of berries - something with a bit of tang! - in the bottom of your serving bowl
Whisk the whipping cream to the same consistency as the yoghurt. Gently blend the yoghurt and whisked whipping cream together and pour over the berries.
Put a good layer of brown sugar (to your taste!) on top and then place in the refrigerator overnight.
Presto – delicious!
Makes 26 cookies
½ pound butter, softened (2 sticks)
¾ cup + 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
¾ cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 ¼ teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 ¼ cups flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
Pinch cinnamon
2 2/3 cups Nestle Tollhouse semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 3/4 cups chopped walnuts
Cream butter, sugar and brown sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
Add eggs, vanilla and lemon juice, blending with mixer on low speed for 30 seconds, then medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy, scraping down bowl.
With mixer on low speed, add flour, oats, baking soda, salt and cinnamon, blending for about 45 seconds. Don’t overmix.
Remove bowl from mixer and stir in chocolate chips and walnuts.
Portion dough with a scoop (about 3 tablespoons) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper about 2 inches apart.
Preheat oven to 300°F. Bake for 20 to 23 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and center is still soft.
Remove from oven and cool on baking sheet for about 1 hour.
Cook’s note: You can freeze the unbaked cookies, and there’s no need to thaw. Preheat oven to 300°F and place frozen cookies on parchment paper-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake until edges are golden brown and center is still soft.
These delicious recipies are best served alfreso! Cottage Culture has a variety of outdoor dining tables, outdoor dining chairs, outdoor lounge options and many more items to help you entertain outdoors this patio season. Need help finding the perfect outdoor patio table and outdoor dining chairs for your space? Visit our blogs How to choose the perfect outdoor patio table. and How to choose the perfect chair for helpful information and tips.
Reach out to us or pop by our showroom! Looking for patio inspiration? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest!
With interior and exterior design trends incorporating more natural colours and materials, teak patio furniture is a hot item for summer 2023. Historically used to build ships and yachts, teak wood is a highly sought-after, high-quality material that stands the test of time. Teak’s natural characteristics also make it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture.
Are you shopping for patio furniture and considering teak dining sets, chairs, benches, storage boxes, or other teak outdoor furnishings? Then you have come to the perfect place! Below, we answer common questions and provide details on key things you need to know before you purchase teak patio furniture near you. Read on to learn more!
Teak wood is a type of tropical hardwood harvested from Tectona Grandis trees. Tectona Grandis trees are very fast-growing and native to South and Southeast Asia, South America, the Caribbean, and Africa.
When milled and dried, teak wood is close-grained, dense, strong, high in natural oils, durable, and very resistant to pests and rot. These qualities make teak a top choice for building wooden items that need to last – including outdoor furniture!
While there are over a dozen kinds of teak wood available from various regions worldwide, there are typically only three grades or classifications for the material. These classifications/types of teak indicate the quality, colour, durability, and resistance of lumber. Each grade is derived from different parts of Tectona Grandis trees, which impacts wood density and oil content.
The three types/grades of teak wood are:
We explain each in greater detail below, as it is important to understand how the overall quality, durability, and appearance of teak vary across each grade.
“Grade A” teak
Grade A teak is the highest quality teak available on the market. This grade of teak is extracted from the heartwood (also known as the centre) of mature trees. In its natural form, it is the highly desirable honey-brown colour that is characteristic of teak wood. Grade A is also rich in natural oils, making products crafted from teak exceptionally durable and resistant to pests and severe weather. The superior quality of this type of teak is reflected in the price, but it is worth the investment!
“Grade B” teak
Grade B teak is mid-grade quality wood, but it is still suitable for a variety of wooden products. This grade is extracted from the outer heartwood of trees. While not as strong as Grade A, Grade B still has sufficient strength, durability, and resistance to pests and harsh weather conditions.
The price of Grade B teak is lower than Grade A. Grade B teak also tends to be lighter in colour than higher quality alternatives.
“Grade C” teak
Grade C teak is the lowest quality compared to Grade A and B teak. It is extracted from the exterior wood (sapwood) of trees, which is less dense than heartwood and outer heartwood. Sapwood does not have sufficient strength or durability and is lacking in natural oils, making it unsuitable for patio furniture.
In addition, the colour of Grade C teak wood tends to be lighter and less vibrant in colour, usually appearing more white or cream than higher grade teak. Low-grade teak is also often uneven in colour and more prone to damage.
As indicated above, there are many benefits of teak outdoor furniture, including:
Durability and longevity
Rot and pest resistance
Natural beauty
Low maintenance requirements
Versatility with style options
All of these qualities make teak outdoor patio furniture a worthwhile investment.
With proper care, teak furniture can last an impressive 50-75+ years! The natural oils in teak wood make it naturally resistant to intense conditions, including exposure to rain, snow, and even salty ocean air. Teak oils also make the wood resistant to rot and pests.
The best part about teak is that even if you neglect i
t or leave it sitting out, it will still hold up longer than other types of wood without warping, cracking, bending, or looking rundown.
How Often Does Teak Need to Be Cleaned or Maintained?
Teak is low maintenance and only requires a thorough cleaning with a soft brush and soap/water (or a teak-specific cleaner) once per season. After that, you can keep your teak clean by wiping up spills or accumulations of dust and dirt as they happen.
Over time, teak outdoor furniture will weather and develop a silvery-grey patina which helps protect the wood. Many people like this weathered look, while others prefer to maintain the honey-brown colour. If you wish to avoid patina development on teak, simply apply teak protector products once or twice per year.
To help your teak last longer, you can opt to bring it indoors or use a cover when you are done with your set for the season.
Not all teak is created equal. Before you make a purchase, ensure you understand the differences in all three grades of teak. Opt for grade A to ensure maximum strength, durability, and natural beauty. High-quality teak will be a rich honey-brown, indicating a high oil content. The colouring will also be even throughout.
In addition, pay attention to the craftsmanship of the teak pieces you are considering. The manufacturing is poor if you see visible nails, knots, cracks, or separation around joints. Look for mortise and tenon joinery, which is one of the strongest joint types used in furniture construction.
For the reasons above, it is recommended that you only order from a retailer with a respected reputation, positive reviews, excellent customer service, and product warranties.
If a retailer is advertising genuine teak furniture at a very low price, that is another red flag that you will not want to ignore. Teak furniture is an investment that lasts decades, which is reflected in the retail price.
Teak is an incredibly versatile material which is why it has been one of the most popular types of outdoor furniture for countless decades. Teak’s natural appeal and adaptability also make the material suitable for a variety of décor items in your backyard oasis.
Some patio sets, loungers, benches, and storage boxes are fully constructed with teak wood, which enhances an airy, natural, and casual aesthetic. Pair these items with beiges, browns, and greens to create a relaxing and inviting outdoor living space. For this aesthetic, consider the Circus Dining Table made of cultivated and certified teak.
The Circus Dining Table is a large table in teak's signature honey-brown colour. You'll love the 70-inch Lazy Susan made of durable and attractive superstone. This table looks fabulous surrounded by rattan chairs, but it also lends itself well to black and slate chair frames if you prefer a more modern look.
Opt to apply teak protectant to the Circus Dining Table to preserve its stunning colour, or allow it to form a patina over time.
Whether you want a fully teak patio set or prefer to pair teak with other materials, there is sure to be a teak outdoor furniture option that suits your unique style!
In conclusion, teak patio furniture is the perfect option for anyone who values making investments in high-quality items that will last for decades with minimal care and maintenance.
Teak offers many benefits in terms of strength, durability, versatility, sustainability, and resistance to pests and rot. It is also naturally beautiful when sealed to preserve the prized honey-brown colour. It is equally attractive when left to weather and develop a silvery-grey patina.
When shopping for teak patio furniture, always ask about which type/grade of teak was used. Teak grades (A,B, and C) vary significantly in terms of quality, strength, durability, weather resistance, and colour. Therefore, it is important to ensure you purchase furniture pieces or sets that will stand the test of time.
In addition to asking about teak grade, pay attention to the quality of the craftsmanship and only purchase outdoor teak patio furniture from a reputable retailer. Remember that teak furniture is an investment; inexpensive sets are likely poor quality or made with imitation teak that will quickly disappoint you.
Due to teak’s versatility and ability to pair well with a variety of other materials like aluminum and rattan, there is a teak patio set available on the market for everyone’s unique styles and tastes. Opt for a fully teak set, pair teak with matte black accents, or incorporate teak accents into your outdoor décor for an upscale aesthetic that is very on-trend this summer.
Are you ready to start shopping for high-quality teak patio furniture that will last the test of time? Do you also want to find a comfortable patio set that exudes elegance and matches your style? Then consider shopping with Cottage Culture!
We are proud to be a family-owned and operated patio-furniture retailer in Canada. We are committed to offering only superior customer service, warranties, and support to every client who walks through our doors.
We invite you to browse our online patio furniture collection or visit our showroom in beautiful Hensall, Ontario.
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With the arrival of the crisp Autumn weather our thoughts turn to dismantling our outdoor living spaces for another year. Before you go and store away your patio furniture why not take a look and see if you can use any of your outdoor furniture pieces in your indoor space? Refresh a corner with seating for two for a morning coffee or add that extra seating to your living room space. No longer is outdoor furniture made strictly for the outdoors, it now comes in many different styles and dimensions. Resin is no longer the only option!
The scale of outdoor patio furniture lends perfectly to small hard to design spaces and private corners. Quality and design have come so far in patio furniture some condominium owners prefer patio furniture for their indoor living spaces. When every square inch counts you want to make sure that you choose wisely for function and design. The Covelo line is a popular choice for small indoor living areas. Insert link.
Do you have a small unused corner in your indoor living space that you just don’t know what to do with? Consider placing a small bistro set in the corner. Not only are these sets eye-catching it will give you a new area to sit and enjoy your morning espresso or cappuccino. By moving your café set indoors you will be able to enjoy the Parisian vibe all year long!
I know plants are not furniture, but you have nursed these plants along all summer, why not enjoy them throughout the winter? Not all plants can be safely moved indoors, unfortunately annuals will not make the transition. However, most other plants will thrive just as beautifully indoors, just be sure to place them in the correct natural light requirements in your home. While you are bringing in your favourite plants it is also a great time to give them a touch of fertilizer to ease the transition. A simple styling trick when bringing in your patio plants is to use a plant basket. It’s as simple as placing your potted plant from outside in the basket pot and all! We would advise to ensure you have a spill tray at the bottom of your pot incase you over water it. These baskets add a warm texture to your space and are available in a variety of colours. Our favourites are the Pokoloko plant baskets that come in 3 different sizes and designs that compliment each other.
Style wise, usually your outdoor furniture will be along the same lines as your indoor furniture. People tend to gravitate to their preferred style when sourcing and purchasing furniture. This being said it makes it easy to meld your outdoor patio furniture with your existing indoor furniture.
Why not freshen up your current indoor furniture set up? Side tables and end tables are interchangeable with indoor and outdoor furniture and sometimes add that perfect bit of something new to add interest to your space. Some popular versatile outdoor side table options are the Pamir side tables for a traditional look and the Virgo nesting coffee tables for a more modern look.
Don’t be afraid to use your outdoor rugs inside. These rugs again have come a long way from the old peeling plastic versions. The Averio rug looks and feels like a sisal rug however is made of a polypropylene that will not flake away and makes for easy clean ups! With the arrival of fall and the impending arrival of winter muddy and snowy boots will be lining our entry ways, this is a great place to use your outdoor rugs. The Chilewich shag rugs are specifically designed to capture the dirt and debris from footwear as well as the feet of our canine family members. Less vacuuming is always a good thing! To clean the rugs just take them outside for a quick shake.
Another area of your home that is quick and easy to spruce up with outdoor furniture is your home office or bedroom. Do you have some extra floor space in these areas that could accommodate an occasional chair? Sometimes just the addition of a chair and a side table create the perfect little moment in your indoor living space. The Indus and Lyra lines meld beautifully with the esthetics of a home office. You can’t even tell that they are outdoor furniture!
Swap out your dining chairs. With the ever more popular eclectic look when it comes to dining chairs, why not exchange a couple of your indoor dining chairs with your patio dining chairs? Not super keen on the eclectic look? A more unified esthetic is to exchange the two end chairs creating visual interest.
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Do you have a formal dining room that you no longer use? An area of your basement that is forgotten? Maybe even a home gym that is only used as a laundry rack? These areas can be transformed into beautiful garden rooms, even if they are not bathed in sunlight. With a little bit of white paint, botanical print wallpaper used strategically and some artificial plants these spaces can be transformed into an inviting and relaxing garden room. This is a great idea especially if you have some true rattan pieces of outdoor furniture. Adding these pieces indoors creates a costal vibe and we all need to feel a bit of a warm costal vibe at some point in the dead of winter. We have put together some of our favorite garden room pieces for some inspiration.
Made of true rattan the Vallda line is made to last generations. As rattan pieces are investment pieces it makes sense to have a place indoors to use them year round. There is an added bonus of feeling an instant sense of warmth when you pass by a rattan chair which helps chase away the winter blues.
The dimmensions and design of the Hassel make it a great option for luxury in small spaces. The neutral colour palette compliments any interior you just add your own personal choice of toss cushions and or throws to completel the look!
Similar to the Hassel the Pembroke lends itself beautifully to luxury in small spaces. With the tubular black aluminum legs the Pembroke has a bit more of a modern look but again with a neutral colour palette making it easy to meld with your interior decor.
As you can see the line between indoor furniture and outdoor furniture has definitely been blurred. It makes sense to take the time when shopping for patio furniture to think ahead of how you may be able to use these pieces of furniture year round.
Being creative and thinking outside of the box before you go ahead and store all of your patio furniture for the season may lead to a new look for the interior of your house this winter! Happy decorating!
