Macon Magazine

New products make for chic patios and porches

By Kim Zachman

According to census figures, nearly $8.7 billion was spent on remodeling porches, terraces, decks and patios in 2006. A recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders revealed that a patio or deck is one of the top three “must haves” requested by new homebuyers. Americans are eager to enjoy their outdoor spaces and are now cooking, dining and even watching television outside.

“It used to be a table and four chairs,” said Bert Maxwell IV of Bert Maxwell Furniture. “Now we’re selling deep-seating sofas, large dining sets and chat groupings.”

Peggy Edwards of Market Square agreed. “People are investing as much in their outdoor furniture as their indoor, sometimes more. They want to be as comfortable outside as they are with their La-Z-Boys inside.”

The good news is that new manufacturing technologies have made outdoor furniture much more durable and practically maintenance free. The styles available have broadened as well. The bad news is that there are so many products to choose from, it can be overwhelming. There are still the traditional materials such as natural wicker, teak and wrought iron, but there are also a broad range of synthetic-wicker, extruded-aluminum and cast-aluminum styles. Considering the long lifespan and the price of modern outdoor furniture, selecting the right pieces for your home requires some careful research.

Amy Register of Midstate Pools and Spas suggested you first determine how you will use your outdoor space.

“Are you hosting large dinner parties or is it just a few buddies hanging out grilling burgers?” she asked. “Do you have friends over for drinks and appetizers or is it just the two of you having a cup of coffee and reading the paper?”

She also said you might consider more than one grouping of furniture to satisfy your entertaining needs. For instance, you might select a small chat group consisting of a love seat, lounge chair, ottoman and coffee table for cocktails with neighbors and a larger dining set for when the whole family comes for Sunday dinner.