Just because summer is coming to an end doesnt mean the outdoor dinner parties or evenings around the fire pit have to. Our expert home editors scouted out the best patio furniture that will not only make your outdoor space comfortable for gathering, but can also withstand the elements and stay in top shape when not in use. From weather-resistant woven-wicker sets to our favorite market and offset umbrellas, these stylish, durable outdoor pieces will make the most of your space, regardless of the time of year.
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Our editors chose the best patio furniture that's both stylish and durableincluding Outer, our top ... [+] aluminum pick.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTOS: OuterAccording to senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone, if you want to snag the best prices on outdoor furniture, purchase pieces off season. She adds that the absolute best time to shop patio furniture deals is on Labor Day: Retailers are often looking to clear out their inventories ahead of the colder months, so you can find awesome deals on pieces to save for the following spring and summer, Cuzzone says. Below, find 20 of our favorite picks for the best patio furniture in many of which are used or have been tested by Forbes Vetteds home and outdoor team.
USA-Made
POLYWOOD
Materials: Recycled HDPE, performance fabric | Colors: 14-plus options, including Chartreuse Boucle and Leaf Sky Blue | Warranty: 20-year limited
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Whether your family likes having breakfast outside or having company over for outdoor drinks, this weather-resistant four-piece set by Polywooda brand known for its durable materialsis the perfect setup. The deep-seat collection includes two chairs, one loveseat and one coffee table, all furnished with weather-resistant, quick-dry cushions made from performance fabric. The biggest highlight, though, is their Polywood Lumber construction; this lumber is made from recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) thats designed to hold up against sun, salt and moisture. And dont just take our word for ittwo of our outdoor furniture experts point to HDPE as one of the most non-porous, long-lasting and sustainable materials for patio furniture.
Amazon
Materials: Eucalyptus wood, polyester | Colors: 2 options, including Brown and Cream | Warranty: 2-year furniture protection plan for an additional $55
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This acacia wood sofa set from Christopher Knight Home is conveniently available through Amazon, and it comes at an incredibly reasonable price. The loveseat and chairs come with cream-colored cushions that are easy to cleanjust toss the polyester covers in the washing machine. The sets pared-down design makes it ideal for more compact spaces, and reviewers say that its easy to put together. However, if you plan on keeping it outdoors throughout the seasons, you should invest in a furniture wax to protect the wood.
Wayfair
Materials: Acacia wood, polyester | Colors: 3 total, including Cream and Blue | Warranty: 90-day limited warranty
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This outdoor furniture set is fashioned from sleek acacia wood, which is both durable and elegant-looking. The four-person sofa consists of six sectional pieces, each complete with water-resistant cushions made of polyester. Meanwhile, a generously sized square table holds appetizers, drinks and more. In addition to neutral Cream, the cushions also come in more vibrant shades of Blue and Green.
neighbor
Materials: Synthetic wicker, Sunbrella, aluminum, high-performance foam | Colors: 3 options, including Olive and Charcoal | Warranty: 5-year (fabric), 3-year (frame and hardware)
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If youre looking for a wicker set but are afraid it wont stand the test of time, dont be. Just make sure the set is made from high-quality wicker, especially if you live in a sunny climate, says Todd Proctor, sales and service manager at Salt Lake City-based Leisure Living (a company owned by Christy Sports). Neighbors Roundabout collection is a solid woven choice, thanks to its combination of weather-resistant synthetic rattan, an aluminum frame, marine-grade hardware, and cushions made from quick-to-dry foam and Sunbrella fabric. But its extra-sturdy construction doesnt mean it isnt comfythe seating is deep, the cushions are wide and plush and the fabric texture is soft to the touch. Our favorite part: You get 45 days to decide if the furniture is right for you.
What our experts say: Proctor says that most brands have replaced natural wicker with synthetic HDPE, which lasts longer than the former and doesnt need to be painted. His advice when shopping for woven furniture? Keep in mind that there are many quality levels that exist. If you purchase low-cost wicker, it will not last long. In high-sun areas, the sun can cause the low-cost woven furniture to fail in as little as one year.
outer
Materials: Aluminum, foam, OuterShell (patented weather-resistant fabric), OuterWeave (recycled performance fabric) | Colors: 5 options, including Pacific Fog Gray and Deep Sea Navy | Warranty: 10-year limited (frame), 5-year limited (cushions)
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Lightweight, stylish, weather-proof and comfortable: Outers modular aluminum collection checks off several criteria that make it one of the best patio furniture you can buy (and reviewers say that this makes it worth the considerable investment). These pieces most attractive features are the two patented materials theyre made with: the built-in OuterShell covers, a weather-resistant cover with Velcro and handles for protection and portability; and removable OuterWeave, which covers the cushions and is machine-washable and fade-resistant. Other highlights include a customizable modular design, lounge-worthy foam cushions and the option to try free fabric swatches.
What our experts say: Milly McEwan, product and design manager at RJ Living, an Australian furniture company, says that aluminum furniture is among the easiest to clean and maintain: This material is essentially rust-resistant and can easily look brand new with a quick wipe-down.
Ashley Furniture HomeStore
Materials: Aluminum | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
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Ashley Furniture is a trusted retailer that covers every room in the home, including outdoor spaces. Our advice: Take a look at the brands affordable bistro sets, like the metal one here. Theyre quintessentially Parisian with classic, just-ornate-enough details. Made of cast aluminum with an anti-rust coating, the chairs and table have a distinctly vintage look that will retain its charming luster over time.
Frontgate
Materials: Wicker, teak wood | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, 2-year warranty on fabric and finishes
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If a wooden look is more your speed, Frontgates teak outdoor collection will give your patio a beachy, coastal vibewhile nicely standing up to the elements. This three-piece loveseat set is made with wide-woven wicker and rich teak wood, both of which add to that relaxed feeling. While Frontgates furnishings are certainly luxurious, they dont feel stuffy or highbrow. Add a few patterned throw pillows to infuse the set with your own personality, or go minimal with a cushion-free look.
What our experts say: Both McEwan and Proctor say teak is one of the most durable types of lumber. Says McEwan, Teak is a dense hardwood that has natural oils that protect it from moisture, insects and decaymeaning it will survive for years without much maintenance. Proctor says, [It] will weather to a beautiful silver gray if left alone. [It] will develop a velvet-like feel to the touch.
frontgate
Materials: Teak wood, stainless steel | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, 2-year warranty on fabric and finishes
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Topping the list in Forbes Vetteds Best Adirondack Chairs roundup, this piece from Frontgate lives up to its luxury price tag. With a high-quality teak frame thats been pre-weathered for a lived-in look, this timeless chair makes any outdoor space feel more put-together. The kiln-dried wood is naturally resistant to mildew, so itll keep its good looks over time. (Pro tip: We recommend adding on the matching Rowan Adirondack Ottoman.)
Breeo
Materials: Poly lumber, stainless steel | Colors: 4 total, including Gray and Antique Mahogany | Warranty: 5-year warranty from purchase date
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This hard-wearing piece from Breeo resembles an Adirondack chair, except it doesnt lean so far back, allowing your whole body to remain closer to your fire pit. Even if you dont have a roaring bonfire going, this chair is a winner; its made of poly lumber, a synthetic, recycled plastic that resembles real wood but is actually one of the easiest materials to maintain. Good-quality poly lumber will be colored all the way through, [which] means if it gets scratched it will not need to be touched up. Poly lumber will provide the longest life with the least amount of care, he says. You can also outfit this chair with Breeos accessories, which include a cupholder and serving tray.
What our editors say: Ive had the Breeo X Series for a couple of weeks, and it was easy to put together and seems really high quality so far, says senior updates editor Karen Tietjen. I also love that it emulates the classic Adirondack chair style, except with a smart fire pitfriendly design. Further, Breeo makes an adorable kid-sized version so the whole family can enjoy relaxing outdoors.
yardbird
Materials: Powder-coated aluminum, Sunbrella | Colors: 2 total, including Shale and Milano | Warranty: 3-year (craftsmanship), 5-year (Sunbrella), 10-year (frames)
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Looking for an elegant dining set thats also durable and low-maintenance? Yardbirds Lily five-piece dining set (the top overall pick in our Best Patio Dining Sets story) will serve you well. The collection consists of a round dining table and four chairs with a timeless lattice-back design; theyre constructed with rust-proof aluminum thats finished with an attractive coffee-brown powder finish. Whats more, the chairs come with cushions (you can choose from one of two colors), and the dining table has a market umbrella hole built in.
Article
Materials: Polypropylene, metal | Colors: 9 total, including Aloe Green and Dusty Pink | Warranty: 1-year warranty from delivery date
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Made of durable, UV-resistant plastic, this modern dining chair adds a touch of minimalist cool to any patio or balcony. It comes in a wide range of colors such as Aloe Green, Daisy Yellow and Berry Blue, so you can infuse your outdoor space with your favorite hue. Prefer more arm support? Theres a version with armrests too. While elegant, the thin metal legs aren't the best choice for using directly on a lawn or a deck with thinner slats.
What our editors say: I've owned these indoor/outdoor chairs from Article for nearly four years, and I still love them as much as when we first bought them, says executive director Cory Baldwin. They've held up great on my outdoor patio and look right at home in my dining room when we need extra seating.
West Elm
Materials: Aluminum, olefin, foam | Colors: 1 option, including Gray | Warranty: 3-year Allstate protection plan for an additional $300
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If youre looking to add a modern edge to your patio, you should consider this sleek choice from West Elm. The rustproof aluminum frame is accompanied by weather-resistant Olefin cushions in a neutral gray shade, but you can also purchase Sunbrella cushion covers in other hues like Charcoal and Ocean. Smooth, rounded corners give this couch a particularly inviting feel, inspiring you to kick back and relax for a while.
USA-Made
Room & Board
Materials: Thermally modified ash, stainless steel, CertiPUR-US-certified foam, fiber | Colors: 40-plus options, including Mist Putty and Pelham Blossom | Warranty: Good-faith guarantee
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If you want to add an elegant flair to your outdoor space, it doesnt get any better than Room & Boards selection. The brand is known for its American-crafted, sustainably sourced furniture, and that includes its outdoor pieces. The Montego collection is one of our favorites for its weather resistance, durability and style. Expertly hand-welded with a stainless steel frame, this sofa is made with thermally modified ash that is non-porous and waterproof; it also turns into an attractive silver-gray as it ages. The loose cushions, meanwhile, are made with high-density foam and fiber and wrapped in a water-repellent fabric.
What our experts say: Elise Nicpon, an outdoor furniture expert and the director of customer experience for Room & Board, says thermally modified ash is one of the most non-porous, durable and sustainable furniture materials out there. She tells us, Thermally modified ash, a weather-resistant material that ages to a beautiful silver-grey color, comes from a combination of sustainably managed U.S. forests and fallen urban ash trees.
vivere
Materials: Polyester, cotton or Sunbrella (steel stand) | Colors: 10-plus options, including Cayo Reef and Mimosa | Warranty: 1 year
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The Vivere Double Hammock, one of our home editors top picks with a stand in our Best Hammocks story, is a great choice if youre looking for a relaxing place to lounge that isnt necessarily a sofa or armchair. While we think of hammocks as only working in areas with trees, the Vivere Double comes with a 9-foot steel stand so you can hang it anywhere in your outdoor space. Plus, we found its easy and quick (under 10 minutes) to install in our testing. Best of all, you can choose from a variety of fabric materials, including polyester, cotton and Sunbrella.
What our editors say: Executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, who tested the polyester version of the Vivere hammock for multiple weeks, shares that the setup was very straightforward: I did it alone, and it took about 10 minutes. She also highlighted how comfortable it was to lounge inthough she notes that individuals over 200 pounds might have a harder time finding a comfortable position.
Editors Pick
L.L.Bean
Materials: Acrylic fabric, steel, polyester | Colors: 2 options, including Navy/Gray multi and Green/Sand multi | Warranty: None
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While it may be an unconventional choice for lounge furniture, this quilted hammock will quickly become your new favorite resting spot. Made of fade- and mildew-resistant acrylic fabric, the hard-wearing hammock stands up to spills like a champ. Plus, the fabric is reversible if you need a change of scenery (the multi colors have a solid-colored reverse side). You can mount it between two trees or wooden beams, but we recommend picking up the accompanying hammock stand, which is sold separately.
What our editors say: This hammock is an ideal place to read and nap on sunnier days, says editorial director Brinda Ayer. It's made of a super comfortable and plush fabric that is easy to clean (in many cases, you can just wipe stuff offespecially liquids, if you like to enjoy a cold beverage in your hammock like I do). Like with so many L.L. Bean products, the construction of this hammock is solid and feels extremely durable; I'm not worried about rolling around or having the supporting ropes fray or snap.
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Materials: UV-resistant polyester, aluminum | Colors: 7 options, including Turquoise Blue and Brick Red | Warranty: 3-year warranty on fabric
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This patio umbrella is our home editors designated best cantilever umbrella overall because of its unparalleled wind resistance and stability during testing. The key lies in the sturdy aluminum frame that supports the umbrella canopy, which is made with sturdy, weather-proof performance polyester and aluminum bones. Its impressive size and solid construction dont hinder it from being user-friendlyit has an intuitive handle that lets you open and close the canopy and tilt it to several angles. A crank, meanwhile, allows it to rotate a full 360 degrees. (Note: This umbrellas base is sold separately.)
What our writers say: Forbes Vetted contributor Camryn Rabideau tested this offset umbrella over the course of several weeks. In her full review of the Purple Leaf, she says, Although the heavy-duty construction did make the umbrella a bit harder to set up, the tradeoff is worth it. This umbrella was the most stable of all the models I tested, and seemed like it would last the longestespecially since it came with a cover for use in the off-season. The aluminum poles powder-coated finish makes it look like wood-grain, and the canopy is actually screwed onto the frame, ensuring it will never slip off.
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Materials: Aluminum, polyester or Sunbrella | Colors: 30-plus options, including Aqua and Sand | Warranty: None
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For patios without a lot of shade, a large, a sweeping umbrella makes a huge difference in how comfortable your seating area is. This 9-foot pick, which we also named the best patio umbrella after rigorous testing, is made of sun- and water-resistant fabric. For added convenience, theres a manual crank that allows you to tilt the umbrella up to 30 degrees. There are several hues to pick from, including Cobalt, Khaki and Forest Green.
What our writers say: It has a classic appearance that will look good on any patio, and of all the umbrellas I tested, it had the best features for the price, says Rabideau. During testing, I found this umbrella simple to operate thanks to its sturdy crank, which is easy to access and turn, as well as its auto-tilt mechanism, which lets you find the right angle to block the sun.
Pottery Barn
Materials: Concrete, acacia wood | Colors: 2 options, including Gray Wash and Brown | Warranty: None
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If you have the budget, Pottery Barns always-on-trend collections are not to be missed. This outdoor bar is made with sleek, kiln-dried acacia wood and durable concrete, effortlessly combining form with function. Its all in the details: An integrated bottle opener, towel hooks and drawers are provided to assist you as you whip up drinks for your guests.
frontgate
Materials: Polypropylene | Colors: 1 option, including Gray | Warranty: 1-year
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Those seeking a cozy outdoor rug to pull your patio pieces together will find Frontgates Britta Indoor/Outdoor Rug a worthy choice. (It also has our home editors stamp of approval as the best outdoor rug overall.) Made from UV-proof polypropylene, a synthetic material that will hold onto color while resisting mold and mildew, the Britta also manages to look chic thanks to its minimal diamond pattern and woven design. Maintaining it is easy, too: Make sure to regularly vacuum it, or hose-spray and air-dry it if you need a deeper clean. (We recommend including the corresponding outdoor rug pad to your purchase to keep the Britta in place and help with water drainage.)
Amazon
Materials: Polyester canvas | Colors: 2 options, including Black and Brown | Warranty: 5-year
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No matter how weather-proof and sturdy your patio furniture is, youll probably still want to invest in a quality cover to keep it in the best shape when its not in use. Ultcovers options are Forbes Vetteds pick for the best outdoor furniture covers overall due to the variety of sizes, durable 600-denier waterproof polyester construction, and included hardware to help keep them in place. Plus, we like the thoughtful details, like structured side vents to keep the cover from ballooning in windy weather, as well as corners you can adjust for height.
At Forbes Vetted, weve researched and written dozens of shopping guides for our home vertical; this includes our robust catalog of outdoor stories.
We also consulted the following interior designers and home furniture experts to inform this story:
To help you find the best patio furniture for your particular outdoor space and aesthetic, our team interviewed experts, pored over several top-rated options and scanned scores of user reviews.
When it comes to shopping for the right patio furniture for your space and budget, there are several key factors to consider. We asked our experts to share their tips below.
One of the biggest considerations when shopping for patio furniture is what materials its constructed with, and this applies even if your patio is covered. Elise Nicpon, an outdoor furniture expert and the director of customer experience with Room & Board, says, You want to ensure your outdoor furniture is weather-resistant, durable and low maintenance.
Examples of some of the most durable and water-repellent materials, according to Nicpon, include stainless steel, powder-coated steel, powder-coated aluminum, recycled HDPE (which take the form of resin wicker or poly lumber) and thermally modified ash. [They] can withstand almost any weather and, when cared for properly, last a lifetime, she adds. If sustainability is important to you, Nicpon says that HDPE and thermally modified ash tend to be environmentally friendlythey can be made with recycled plastics or fallen ash trees, respectively.
Todd Proctor, sales and service manager of Leisure Living (owned by Christy Sports), concurs. He adds that iron or wrought-iron patio furniture is another worthy option if you live in low-humidity, high-wind climates, since its heaviness means your furniture wont slide around your patio. However, he warns that no matter how well iron furniture is painted, and no matter how well you clean and dry this furniture, it is guaranteed to rust in wet climates.
Those who prefer the warm look of wood patio furniture also have plenty of natural or synthetic options. Just know that theyre the highest-maintenance material of the bunch. The best, longest-lasting types of lumber, according to Proctor, are teak and ipe, which, with age, develop an attractive silver gray color and a velvet-like feel. Poly lumber is a type of HDPE that gives you the warm, welcoming look of wood furniture without the added maintenance.
Lastly, those who like the woven look of wicker also have some solid options out there, though youll need to pay a lot more for good quality. Proctor says that wicker isnt a material youll want to skimp on; you should also steer clear of it if you live in a very sunny area. In high-sun areas the sun can cause the low-cost woven furniture to fail in a little as one year. If you do live in a very sunny area, consider aluminum or iron furniture instead.
The climate you live in will greatly determine what type of patio furniture you decide on. For instance, if you live in a very sunny area but want a wooden patio furniture set, you might decide on a teak, thermally modified ash or high-quality synthetic wickersome of the most durable materials available (although you might decide to coat them with an additional wood sealer or protector for even greater longevity).
Youll probably want to avoid cheaper wicker furniture or uncoated iron options; the former will fail in as little as one year in consistent direct sunlight, according to Proctor; the iron might become too hot to comfortably sit in. Aluminum and iron patio furniture, as well as HDPE, excel in windy climates since they tend be heavier; the latter is great for people who want a wooden look but also something that is weather-proof, more solidly constructed and low-maintenance.
If you are set on natural wood patio furniture, teak is your best bet: Teak furniture will best survive in most weather conditions for a longer period of time, says Milly McEwan, product and design manager at RJ Living, an Australian furniture company. She adds that because teaks hardwood is dense and has natural oils that protect it from moisture, insects and decay, it will survive for years without much maintenance.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but its important to purchase pieces that wont be too big for your space; this includes knowing what works with your patios layout, how many people you plan on entertaining, and how many places and seats youll need. The placement of the furniture you do have and the placement of plants, trees, poles and pillars will all play a part when it comes to picking the right [patio furniture] for your space, McEwan tells us. For example, If you have a more narrow patio, then you will likely be looking for smaller or more streamlined pieces of furniture to make sure they dont take up too much space, she adds.
Maintenance
Theres no way to avoid it: Because patio furniture is predominantly used outdoors, youll simply have to clean it more often than your indoor pieces. That said, you can choose a material that matches your aesthetic while still putting in the level of maintenance you prefer. For instance, fans of natural wooden furniture might prefer teak, whose natural oils and non-porous nature help protect it from moisture, insects and rot without much maintenance (as long as you dont mind the color change that occurs as part of its natural aging process).
Aluminum and resin wicker are also quite easy to maintain if your aesthetic hews more closely to those materials. McEwan says, [Aluminum] is essentially rust-resistant and can easily look brand new with a quick wipe-down. Resin wicker, because its a synthetic material, will resist moisture and dirt, making it easy to quickly hose off or wipe down with a mild soap and water mix. Another good option if you dont mind synthetic materials is HDPE or poly lumber; since its colored all the way through, it wont need to be touched up if it gets scratched, Proctor says.
Patio furniture made of teak wood, aluminum and HDPE is durable and can stand up to the elements. Teak has the highest decay resistance of any natural wood: [Its] a dense hardwood that has natural oils that protect it from moisture, insects and decaymeaning it will survive for years without much maintenance, says McEwan. Aluminum is a great metal option since its rust-proof and can withstand hot temperatures. When built correctly, [aluminum] is just as strong as any iron furniture but has the advantage of no rust, and it is generally lighter weight," Proctor says. HDPE, also known as resin wicker or poly lumber, is a synthetic material thats both affordable and hard-wearing. One thing to keep in mind if you opt for wood patio furniture, says Proctor: Because wood is porous, stains may appear if the wood is not sealed or treated. It is always recommended to apply a protectant to help prevent food stains and water rings.
If you live in a temperate climate, you should be fine leaving your patio furniture out year-round. However, if you live someplace that gets a lot of seasonal rain or snow, you should consider using a fabric cover or bringing your furniture indoors during long periods of inclement weather. That being said, pieces made of teak or aluminum are typically durable enough to stay outside throughout fall and winter, which is something to keep in mind when making your purchase. Do note that some durable wood furniture, like teak and ipe, will turn a silver-gray within the year when left in the sun; keeping it in a covered space with little-to-no direct sunlight might help prevent this, Proctor says.
Patio furniture made from aluminum and HDPE is among the easiest to clean, according to our furniture experts. Aluminum furniture is typically powder-coated and inherently rust-resistant, so it typically only requires a wash and dry. HDPE (also called resin wicker or poly lumber) is a synthetic wicker typically made from recycled plastic, meaning its durable and resists moisture and dirt; its also easy to clean with just soap and water.
Handcrafted History
Quality Is Our Legacy
Back in , Braxton Culler started with a simple idea and a passion for quality. Over the years, we've grown and evolved, yet our core values remain the same. From our early days focusing on wicker and rattan, today, we're proud to offer a diverse range of furnishings for every corner of your home both indoors and out.
What sets us apart? A choice of over 600 fabric options and 35 wood and wicker finishes, allowing our customers the freedom to tailor their selections to fit perfectly into their lives. At Braxton Culler, it's about more than furniture; it's about creating spaces that feel like home. We appreciate your trust in us and invite you to be a part of our ever-growing story.
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