For some of us, in the summer, our outdoor furniture is in use more than our indoor pieces. For this reason, investing in timeless, durable pieces is essential.
We are taking cues from Alicia Silverstone, who recently shared a clip of herself on Instagram in which we can see her natural, wooden patio chairs. They complement her cabin-style home perfectly, proving that this design choice is versatile as ever.
When it comes to patio furniture ideas, wood pieces are classic and popular for good reason: they make any outdoor space feel cozy and inviting, while also possessing the ability to maintain natural elements (with the proper care, of course). Plus, in keeping things natural and not following niche color trends, Alicia's patio has longevity. We can't predict the future, but we'd hazard a guess that her patio furniture will look just as beautiful in summer 2026 and beyond.
Shop the look
This timeless set of two wooden, gray dining chairs are perfect for poolside relaxing or patio gatherings.
Masterfully crafted with a durable, rustproof aluminum frame in a hand-brushed woodgrain finish, this chair lends elegance to any porch or terrace. It's designed to last through all weathers and is easily stackable – perfect if you're working with a particularly small space.
Pottery Barn's outdoor offering has loads of lovely mix-and-match pillows, including this Suzani-inspired outdoor-friendly pillow. The neutral background will allow you to layer in plenty of other prints and hues without overwhelming your senses.
According to experts, using natural materials with outdoor furniture is a fantastic way to make an area feel inviting and relaxing, and, best of all, it's a look that will stand the test of time.
Bo Hellberg, CMO at Grythyttan, says 'Furniture crafted with robust materials like sprung steel and wood combined with ergonomic designs, enhances the overall experience of the home. This focus on durability and comfort fosters a sense of well-being, encouraging a harmonious balance between style and functionality in modern interiors.'
However, not all woods are made equal, so it's important to look for ones that will withstand the elements.
'Wooden garden furniture is long-lasting and has a timeless appeal as the natural wooden shades are popular in garden design year after year,' explains Mark Holloway, garden furniture expert at design specialists Holloways of Ludlow. '
Teak in particular is resistant to water, rot, and sun damage thanks to its naturally oil-rich material, making it a great choice for your garden furniture.'
In order to preserve wood furniture, like Alicia's chairs, it's important to move the pieces around so they do not get any sun damage.
'Rotating garden furniture in the summer months helps to prevent fading and uneven wear, helping to extend the lifespan of your furniture,' Mark says. 'Rotate garden furniture such as outdoor chairs, tables, and benches every few months, depending on the type of furniture and how much time it spends in one position.'
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