For most, the outside spaces are the last to be attended to, in terms of design. Especially in places like where I live, where you are lucky to get 5 months use out of them since the weather is so cold. But, if you buy quality pieces made of quality materials and care for them properly (THAT is the kicker!), they should last a loooong time.

When I first got married, Mom encouraged me to plunk down a nice chunk of change on a rusted old vintage Salterini patio set –a wrought iron table and 6 chairs. I had it re-furbished and it still sits out my back door 18 years later. Not to mention it’s value has literally tripled, since it is now considered rare and collectible. I did not even know what it was, I just let her goad me into it; but now I am happy I did.

I also bought, soon after that, a set of Kingsley Bate Teak loungers and 2 chaises that should still be beautiful. Why, you ask, are they not still beautiful? That’s simple: because for the past 12 years they have sat –uncovered –on my patio to let the rain, sleet and snow rot them into hell. I am a fool, and I am kicking myself now for not oiling and cleaning them (some say no to oil, they prefer the grey effect of teak’s weathering) but most importantly, covering them; be it, taking them in or putting durable covers over them, much like a grill.

Now, I have splintered, grey, literally decomposing teak chairs that are from a very well respected manufacturer, and I have myself to blame. SO, what are some of the best (or my favorite) outdoor lines that are priced in a range that is not over the top? Kingsley Bate, Brown Jordan, Barlow Tyrie, Woodard, and O’Brien Ironworks to name a few. Even Restoration Hardware has fabulous offerings this season.