(NC) Whether you’re enjoying a morning cup of coffee, dinner with family or entertaining guests, furniture adds functionality to your outdoor space. With the right pieces, you can greatly enhance the usability, comfort and overall appeal of your patio or deck.

Consider your wants and needs
Choose from a wide variety of materials, colours and styles that best suit your personality or the theme you’ve envisioned for your backyard oasis. If you only use your patio occasionally, a few basic items will suffice. But, if you entertain frequently or spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, shop for multipurpose items that can stand up to wear and tear.

Think about the material
Look for patio cushions with polyester fibres that allow water to run off and air to filter through, keeping them fresh. Cushions that have patterns on both sides allow you to flip them periodically, helping them maintain their appearance and shape. If portability is important, choose lightweight frame materials for furniture, like plastic and aluminum. If you don’t plan to move them often, or if they’ll be exposed to wind, go with heavier materials like wood and wrought iron.

Choose the type of patio set
Is your backyard oasis for hosting or relaxing? The answer to this question will determine what type of patio set you will want to choose. Outdoor dining sets allow you to host sit-down meals for up to ten people. Bistro sets are the perfect size for small patios or balconies. Conversation sets mimic the look of an indoor family room with a coffee table and various types of seating like loveseats, benches and chairs. Some models include gel-fuel fire pits built right into the table. Lastly, sectional sets would suit a more relaxing environment as they typically come in two or four combinations. Head to your local building supply store, such as The Home Depot, to check out the wide variety of patio collections available.

Furniture as final touches
Add an umbrella to shade seating areas and create a more comfortable environment. Choose mesh materials to filter sun while still allowing air to flow in and out. Move your cushions to a cool, dry location when they aren’t in use for prolonged periods of time (always clean them first). If you have limited space, use outdoor storage bins or deck boxes. Enjoy your patio when the weather cools with accessories like patio heaters and portable fire pits. Keep your furniture in top form with covers that help prevent mildew and weather damage.