As a SoCal-based interior designer, I've seen my fair share of outdoor furniture that's been baked, soaked and salted by the elements! Because our clients are unfamiliar with weatherproofing that is required in harsher climates, they expect to leave their outdoor pieces outside to be enjoyed year-round. This means we need to find materials that are low-maintenance and attractive.

Durable Materials: Weather-Treated Metal and Wood

When it comes to outdoor sectionals, I'm all about durability and removable cushions. My rule of thumb is simple: if the material can survive on a sailboat (or a yacht if you prefer), it's going to be just fine on land! That's why I'm all about marine-grade materials like teak wood and solution-dyed fabrics. Teak is like the superhero of wood – it's dense, tolerant to heat and moisture, and it has natural oils that prevent it from rotting. Plus, our clients love that it's eco-friendly and develops a beautiful patina over time that screams "relaxed beachy vibes."

High Performance Fabrics: Solution Dyed Fabric

When it comes to sectional fabric colors, we love a light and bright sun-kissed look, but understand our clients' fear of stains. That's why solution-dyed brands like Sunbrella are an interior designer's dream come true! Without getting too technical, the difference is instead of the traditional process of applying color after the fabric is made, solution-dyed means pigment is added to the fibers of the yarn, making it stronger and UV-resistant, so it won't fade, stain or mildew. This opens up our options to selecting lighter-colored sectionals that will stay looking great for years with very minimal upkeep. So our clients can relax and not worry about the occasional wine spill.

How to Maintain Outdoor Furniture

Of course, to extend the life of an outdoor sectional, you'll want to protect it from direct exposure to the elements. During those rainy seasons, store the removable cushions indoors and cover the frame with a waxed-canvas fabric. Don't forget to ensure there's some ventilation to prevent moisture from getting trapped underneath, nobody wants to sit on a musty sofa!