When we first started working in furniture, we had no clue about the difference between indoor and outdoor materials. We have learned the hard way that there is a big difference, something everyone in our team has been strongly trained in as it is very important to select the right materials for outdoor.
Outdoor furniture is designed to endure the unique challenges presented by coastal settings, such as exposure to seawater, intense sunlight, and elevated humidity levels.
The UAE is a very popular tourist destination with stunning coastlines, turquoise waters and endless sunshine. But equipping your beach resort, restaurant, or VIP cabana with furniture that can withstand the elements can be a challenge. Here’s where our outdoor furniture steps in, offering both style and durability for your outdoor space.
Weathering the Storm: Material Matters
Outdoor furniture goes beyond aesthetics – it needs to be tough enough to handle the UAE’s hot sun, salty air, and occasional sandstorms and as of late, rain. Here are the top materials that we recommend:
Powder-Coated Aluminium: Rust-resistant and lightweight, this material is ideal for beach umbrellas, loungers, and dining sets. It’s ideal for withstanding the salty air and moisture present in coastal environment.
Teak or Iroko Wood: Naturally water-resistant and renowned for its longevity, teak or iroko wood is a classic choice. applying marine-grade finishes and sealants can protect the wood and ensure longevity of your furniture.
Cord & Rattan: Synthetic options specifically designed for outdoor use offer a light and breezy feel, perfect for poolside lounging. These materials provide increased resistance to UV radiation and saltwater corrosion. We usually do not recommend cord and rattan for family-friendly locations as they are not the most robust materials for naughty children.
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Fabrics that Embrace the Sun
For maximum comfort and practicality, consider fabrics that are:
Water-resistant: Acrylic fabrics ensure worry-free relaxation, we have a large range of outdoor fabrics, including a collection that has a beautiful textured finish. Back in the day, outdoor fabrics were plain and boring, that has completely evolved now.
Quick-drying: Breathable materials minimize mildew growth, keeping your furniture fresh.
Fade-resistant: Opt for fabrics with UV protection to maintain vibrant colours throughout the season. This is critical for all countries in the Middle East as we have strong sunrays here.
Maintaining Outdoor Furniture
This is a big one, manly clients sadly do not invest into proper maintenance, which is extremely important for natural materials such as wood.
Regular cleaning: Brush away sand and salt buildup with a soft brush to keep furniture looking its best.
Sun protection: Utilize umbrellas or shades to preserve furniture and offer guests a respite from the midday sun.
Furniture Covers: Invest in high-quality, weather-resistant furniture covers to protect outdoor marine and coastal furniture during the winter months or when not in use. These covers provide an extra layer of defence against harsh weather elements, preventing damage and prolonging the lifespan of your furniture. This is a must!
Off-season storage: Consider storing furniture during harsh weather conditions for extended life. A dry, well-ventilated area, such as a storage shed will minimise the risk of damage from environmental factors.
At Interior Three Sixty, we have a huge selection, ranging from 10DEKA which is one of the best brands for hotel and resort outdoor furniture, to custom teak wood furniture. Visit our showroom for a deep dive into outdoor furniture.
