Not just another patio set
Interesting outdoor seating solutions
We have done numerous Weekly Fixes on patio’s, patio storage and patio seating. This time we want to step off the patio and sit somewhere else.
Ways to get comfortable outside without being stuck on a patio.
Open air fire pit
As always, South Africa’s amazing climate counts in our favour. Whether you call it a boma or a kampvuur, the idea is the same. It’s more than just a braai – its about the mistic magic of an open fire under open sky, smoke spiralling up to tickle the stars and make us long for that nostalgic something… While folding chairs are usually the staple for bomas, a neatly constructed circular brick bench can be awesome for sitting and savouring the great outdoors. A treated concrete finish is the obvious way to go for such a bench, but stone cladding, tiles (mosaic or terracotta) and even painted or “white washed”, it can be a great addition to your outdoor entertainment space. Whether you have a built-in fire pit/platform or a movable brazier, the basic design will stay the same and the functionality of something that’s weather and smoke-smell/fire resistant will win you over in no time.
Picknick blankets (but nicer)
Picknicks are like pizza – a good one is great and a bad one can ruin your week. The Victorians, for all their faults, did get one thing right. A picknick is about more than a blanket. Elevate your outdoor entertainment game by investing in a few picknick basics to make the experience of al fresco dining even better.
- A good plastic or canvas lined blanket in a dark colour or bright pattern
- Collapsable but stable low trays or tables to get your food up off the ground
Maxwell and Williams Picknick tray or Newed tray table with a twist
- Added comfort in the form of scatter cushions or bean bags.
Lawn chairs
Sometimes you need to sit on a lawn. Whether its next to the sport field, or because you are keeping an eye on the kids at the jungle gym in your backyard, putting your chair down on grass is an inevitable part of South African life. Now we have all sat down on one of our granny’s wire and iron outdoor chairs with the spindly legs and have it sink 5cm into the ground…not a great experience OR confidence boost.
To ensure that your lawn chair stays on the lawn instead of in it, we suggest you find one with legs that are either more than 7cm in diameter, or ones with broad, tough plastic “stopper” on the bottom of the chair legs. Chairs with legs that form a flat bar running along the ground are also great.
We love these lawn chair options that won’t have you sinking away into grassy despair:
For your own lawn
For camp-grounds and sport fields
Sitting outside doesn’t have to mean sitting uncomfortably. Invest in some clever seating options and live your best outdoor life this summer.
