Summer is a great season to be outdoors, and spending time with loved ones on the patio has a charm of its own. This is the time to enjoy nature to the fullest, and there is no better way to do this than accumulate and use a variety of outdoor furniture. The trend of using outdoor furniture is just developing, since only a certain segment of customers realise its significance. Traders believe that customers focus more on the interior rather than exterior décor of a house. Another reason for the relatively lesser popularity of outdoor furniture might be that there is a lack of outdoor spaces and area to fit the furniture.

However, for those who have the space and the knowledge, outdoor furniture, also called garden or patio furniture, allows a peaceful respite any time of the day.Furniture stores in the valley are offering various designs of outdoor furniture to attract customers. Manisha Bista, sales executive of Emporios at Teku, explains that outdoor furniture accompanied with accessories is pleasing to the eyes, provides aesthetic appeal to outdoor space and can be placed in garden, backyard, and patio. She stresses that as outdoor space is considered a privilege these days, it is essential to decorate and make the most of it, no matter what its size. “Clients invest a lot of money in indoor furniture and accessories to make their interior décor lavish, but give little attention to outdoor décor,“ says Suresh Rajaure, showroom supervisor of Bira Furniture at Lagankhel, claiming that their clients belong to the higher strata of society, and the use of such furniture is limited to sophisticated clientele. He explains that the major advantage of outdoor furniture is that it allows users to enjoy natural beauty. It also reflects choice and personality of owner.

Outdoor furniture is available in a variety of styles, materials and designs. Most popular among them are weatherproof tables, chairs and sofas made from plastic, glass, steel, bamboo and wicker with attached umbrellas for protection from sun and rain. The price depends on design, material, and quality. Outdoor furniture available in the market is imported from China, Malaysia and Singapore. According to traders, outdoor furniture is manufactured to be weather resistant, but its durability depends on handling and maintenance. With regular maintenance, outdoor furnishings remain attractive for many years. Similarly, there are numerous colours to choose from, as customers can paint the furniture in their chosen shade. The three popular outdoor furniture are:

Table set
The most basic outdoor patio furniture is a set of table and chairs. They can be made from various materials, but plastic, iron and aluminium are optimum for extreme climates and are very durable. Tables can be four to six seaters and some models have umbrellas for a perfect finish. The price for a single table set ranges from Rs 45,000 to Rs 85,000.

Porch swing
Swings are considered luxurious outdoor furniture that allow one to relax and soak in the greenery.They are available with or without awnings. Cushions and pillows can also be added for extra comfort.The price of swings ranges from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000.

Gazebo
A gazebo can be either triangular or tent-styled. It has an attached chair, armrest and table. The minimum seating arrangement is for eight people. To add class to a gazebo, one can add drapes and net curtains. The price of gazebos ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 70, 000. Keep it squeaky clean:

Outdoor furniture is made of durable materials like metal or plastic, but with constant exposure to elements, it can quickly rust, gather dirt or weaken and deteriorate.

Try these tips to make it last:
1. Brush away dirt particles including leaves, flowers, branches and dried bird droppings with a nylon-bristled brush or broom.
2. Hose away stuck-on dust and dirt.
3. Scrub off stubborn grunge. Use soapy water (warm water with dishwashing detergent) and a nylon-bristled brush or old toothbrush.
4. Clean, polish and protect aluminum furniture with a soft cloth dipped in water-andvinegar solution.
5. Polish and protect metal and plastic furniture with a couple of thin coats of car wax on all the exposed areas.
6. Protect wood furniture by repainting as necessary.
7. Consider restoration when rust develops or when bubbles and irregularities appear on the painted surface of metal.

source:The Himalayan Times(2011),"The haven of outdoor relaxation", The Himalayan Times,14 May 2011