Save ’em a Seat in the Garden
When was the last time you handed a friend a tall glass of ice tea as she plopped down on a comfortable chair in the backyard? The two of you savoring the time to relax on a nice afternoon. When it’s quiet in the neighborhood and all you hear is the chirping of birds. That’s the best seat in the whole garden. At that particular moment, it might be the best seat in the whole world!
Simple outdoor seating. It doesn’t have to be perfect. And, it doesn’t even have to be fancy to be comfortable and inviting. Whether entertaining a friend or acquaintance, just offer the best you have. English novelist Jane Austin once remarked:
“To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon the verdure is the most perfect refreshment.”
If you don’t have a place to sit outside, you need one. Because a chair in the back yard beckons you to come out and spend time. For you, maybe it’s the front porch or patio that offers a place to enjoy some fresh air during the warm summer months. It’s important to have time to un-wind and get away from our electronic gadgets if only for an hour. So, even if it’s just for yourself, some simple outdoor seating is a must.
Outdoor seating for sharing
Ideally, a garden isn’t a garden unless it’s shared with others. There’s something to be said for casual hospitality. Not fake or phony, but genuinely inviting without airs of pretense. Maybe that’s the reason I can really identify with this quote:
Sir Max Beerbohm, British Humorist (1872-1956)
“When hospitality becomes an art, it loses its very soul.”
Often, a less formal setting puts people at ease. Psychologically, it feels less restrained and creates a better atmosphere for conversation. That’s appealing to someone who is looking for an indication that they’re free to ‘let their hair down’ and just be themselves.
For simple outdoor seating, a little table and chair combination can be fun. A small vase of fresh cut flowers will dress it up, nicely. Rest assured that whatever you’ve got will be appreciated. I love the casual, unassuming setting this person has created in picture below.
Consider your options for outdoor seating
Outdoor furniture is everywhere in Summer. The garden centers at the big box stores have everything from simple plastic chairs to more formal, metal-framed dining sets with glass top table and umbrella. If you don’t see anything you like locally, there’s certainly a wide variety to choose from on-line.
From an artist’s perspective, (since this is an art & garden blog), here’s one suggestion. Try to find a style that not only fits your budget, but one that fits the theme or “character” you envision for your yard or garden spaces. In other words, are you going for something modern or vintage? Do you like the rustic look, or something with a bit more flair? Keep in mind that both wood and metal outdoor furniture choices can be upgraded with paint/spray paint or customized with cushions in a certain color or pattern.
Every addition you make should work towards your vision, and that includes furniture. Your yard or garden will begin to take on that character much sooner if you do!
DIY patio furniture
You don’t have to settle for what’s at the store. If you are the crafty type, or at least willing to try a project, you can create your own outdoor furniture. And no, it doesn’t involve any carpentry.
For instance, those big wooden, cable spools are quite popular now as outdoor tables. You may be able to get a free one from your local utility. Then, make it look pretty with some paint, a tile job, or stenciling . Same goes for picnic tables. Unless you like the plain wood look, use your imagination! If you have kids (or grand kids), painting a picnic table is a safe, supervised project for them. Let them do hand prints, foot prints or paint a picture.
Another inexpensive, but attractive DIY bench is made with concrete blocks and weather treated posts inserted between them. They are pretty much indestructible. The blocks can be disguised by painting them any color under the sun. Then cover the wood posts with cushions and throw pillows to match.
A similar “Boho” look is achieved by re-purposing shipping pallets. I love the rustic charm. They can be left ‘natural’ or painted. But please, do sand them down, first!
Grab an idea from Pinterest
There are a gazillion crafty ideas on Pinterest. If you’re not familiar with Pinterest, it’s an all-pictures web site. Some have links to pages with instructions on how to do the craft. There are lots and lots of images relating to every imaginable category; including art and garden. I guarantee you’ll get some very wonderful and creative ideas for simple outdoor seating you and your guests will love!
Locally hand-crafted
As an artist myself, I wholly encourage you to support your local craftsmen. In every community there is a talented person who makes gorgeous lawn and garden furniture. Some pieces display exquisite artistry that you just won’t find mass-produced. Chairs and tables are strong and sturdy. They are typically very well made by someone who takes pride in their work, and well worth the price. Should you find that one special piece for the back deck, this is the time to splurge.
Here in my home state, Alaska Barrel Crafts makes beautiful lawn chairs and side tables out of real wooden wine barrels. The craftsmanship is superb which is one of the reasons they are so popular. You’ll find them at remote lodges, restaurants with outdoor seating, or out in the back yard. And there’s just enough curve in the design to make them form-fitting for most people…comfortable enough to fall asleep in!
Conclusion
Having a place to sit outside, whether that’s the patio or back deck draws you outside for some fresh air and, ideally, away from electronic gadgets even for a short period of time. In today’s stressful on-the-go-world, you’d have to admit that sometimes it would be nice to lose track of time. Which is actually possible during Alaskan summers when its broad daylight at 10:00pm.
Simple out door seating is a necessity for the yard or garden. These are special places made for sharing. If you haven’t already, take a look around your place to locate a good spot for a couple of chairs. A casual seating arrangement facilitates hospitality and a place to visit with a friend, share a burden or just to reminisce about happy times.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be fancy. It’s the hospitality that counts.
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that, some have entertained angels without knowing it”
Hebrews 13:2, Holy Bible NIV
A similar topic you may enjoy
How to make a comfy pallet swing
How to Get the Look You Love for Your Garden
