Wood Outdoor Furniture — What to Look for and Where to Buy This Year's Most Stylish Pieces
I've scoured the internet to find the very best outdoor wood furniture so you can skip the search. After reading hundreds of reviews and comparing prices, these styles are most worth the spend
When it comes to timeless classics, wood takes the cake. Natural, beautiful, and long-lasting, there's a certain je ne sais quois to the material that sets it apart from other outdoor furniture options like metals or plastics. It's no wonder that wood is a top choice for luxury resorts and discerning homeowners alike. So, if you're looking to elevate your backyard with warmth and character, wood outdoor furniture is the way to go — a perennial favorite that never goes out of style.
‘Wooden outdoor furniture offers a good balance of aesthetics, durability, and price,’ notes Rafi Friedman, President of Coastal Luxury Outdoors. ‘Quality wood furniture is usually cheaper than either metal or wicker, and it can last just as long, especially if you get a durable wood like cedar and take good care of it.’ Plus, wood offers a rustic charm that other materials simply can't replicate, adds the outdoor expert.
With so many options available, finding the right wood furniture can feel like sifting through pop songs — there's plenty out there, but are they all hits? Debatable. Luckily, hunting down the hidden gems is my specialty. From timeless classics like the iconic Adirondack chair to innovative designs from the best outdoor furniture brands you didn't even know you needed, I've curated a diverse selection. And rest assured, I've scoured the market, reading literally hundreds of reviews to bring you the best prices without sacrificing quality or style. Skip the search, because the best wood outdoor is right here! Continue below.
Wood Outdoor Furniture
Livingetc knows design.
Price: $152.99
Was: $177.99
Kicking off our lineup is this geometrically stunning outdoor bench. Its transitional style combines rustic acacia wood with a modern shape, offering a design-forward yet cozy addition to any backyard or front porch. And at around $150, it's a steal compared to its pricier counterparts (most cost more than double). Consider getting two for stylish outdoor dining seating or let it shine on its own.
Price: $149
Was: $159
As an Aquarius, it’s only natural that this one-of-a-kind live wood side table caught my eye. Crafted from cedar tree stumps, each piece boasts unique natural quirks, adding to its charm. With its unique lacquer finish, it adds a shiny, eye-catching touch to any outdoor space, whether placed beside an outdoor armchair or used as a display for an outdoor planter.
Price: $159.99
For those hunting for a bargain, Ikea's outdoor furniture selection is not to be slept on. Among their many offerings, this shelving unit stands out as quite the steal at just under $160. Made from naturally durable acacia wood, it's pre-treated to withstand the elements, making it ideal for outdoor use. I recommend placing it poolside for summer day essentials or utilizing it as a mini garden shed.
Price: $379.95
It wouldn't be a complete wood outdoor furniture collection without featuring this American classic: the Adirondack chair. You've likely encountered cheaper renditions of this charming style, often crafted from plastic or subpar wood alternatives. But trust me, they just don't compare to the quality of this one from Raymour & Flanigan. Complete with a built-in ottoman, reviewers rave that it’s worth every penny.
Price: $819.99
A solid acacia wood seating group priced happily under the $1,000 mark? It doesn't get better than this, folks. And while one might expect a patio furniture set at this price point to lack the stylish qualities we crave, no compromises are made in this Wayfair option. I love its sleek design and ultra-wide wing-like panels, which add a zen touch. Note that some simple assembly is required, but it's well worth it. If I didn't know better, I'd assume this came from a luxury furniture store. Look no further if you want ample bang for your buck.
Price: $479.20
Was: $599
Contemporary lines and an open construction create a compelling barely-there look in this moisture-resistant solid mahogany and eucalyptus wood bench. Its subtle but intentionally weathered look adds a cheerfully welcome feel to a front porch or a garden space — even a balcony if you're tight on space (it's only 60” wide!). Currently on sale at West Elm (a rare occurrence), I'd recommend scooping it up fast if you're interested.
Price: $709.99
Was: $829.99
This daybed is an absolute showstopper. With its canopy-style covering and double sun lounger construction, it looks as if it was plucked from a luxury resort. While it utilizes wood (specifically acacia), it offers a refreshing contrast with its cream-toned cushions. It would pair beautifully with any of the other wood picks in this edit, although I think it would be particularly stunning alongside the Ikea shelving unit mentioned earlier. And at around $700, it's cheaper than a vacation with the added bonus of never having to leave your backyard.
Price: $372
Never before has an ultra-low profile looked as sophisticated as in this end table by Rove Concepts. Loving its spherical legs, which lend an unexpected softness that enhances the serene outdoor ambiance. Whether situated beside a larger sofa sectional for a convenient hard top surface or used as a coffee table for smaller seating arrangements, it's sure to make a statement. One thing to note is that shipping comes with a $159 flat rate for order totals up to $5,000. To maximize value, I'd suggest bundling it with other items you have your eye on, like the Arco dining table mentioned earlier.
Price: $226.99
Was: $262.99
Moving on to this darling bar set — it evokes a '60s tropical beach style that's impossible not to love. Its traditional lines and rustic acacia wood slats make it a perfect fit for most balconies, offering a fantastic option for entertaining in the big city or adding a vibrant resort-like feel to poolside settings. At under $230, it's a steal, and while you get what you pay for to some extent, one review summed it up perfectly: ‘Just perfection. Wasn’t the easiest to set up but it fits amazing and looks great.’ So, if you're willing to put in the work (or hire a Taskrabbit), it's a no-brainer.
Price: $399
For those who prefer a minimalist look, this kiln-dried side table from West Elm is like a breath of fresh air. With a discrete storage compartment for all your outdoor odds and ends, it keeps backyard essentials, like sunscreen and spare outdoor pillows, out of sight and out of mind. And with West Elm's reputation for quality, you can rest assured that this piece is like the gold standard of outdoor furnishings.
Price: $789
This chair may not be the one you accidentally take a nap in, but it's undeniably stunning. With intricate fretwork detailing crafted entirely from luxurious teak wood, it brings an idyllic artistry to garden spaces and patios alike. Whether you add cushions for extra comfort or let the wood take center stage, it's a timeless and charming piece that will remain a cherished part of your collection for years to come. In fact, one reviewer loved it so much that they purchased four to use as outdoor seating for their dining table.
Price: $1,865
Last but not least, we have the pièce de résistance: a tasteful outdoor dining table that exudes sculptural elegance and organic charm. Consider it the focal point of your backyard — this minimalist design speaks for itself. Perfect for large families or anyone who loves to entertain, it pairs well with chairs of a similar walnut hue, preferably with some sort of cushion to offer contrast to the table's acacia wood.
Which wood should I pick?
Wood is a fantastic choice for outdoor furniture, but not all types are created equal. Rafi walks us through the most common wood varieties you might encounter in your search.
'Cedar is definitely the best combination of price and durability for outdoor furniture,’ says the outdoor expert. ‘It's highly resinous, which makes it water-resistant.’
If you've ever visited a high-end resort, you've likely encountered teak, which Rafi describes as ‘a good top-of-the-line option.’ However, it's also the most expensive wood for outdoor furniture and can be challenging to find.
For a happy medium, consider eucalyptus and acacia. These are beautiful, durable options that fall between cedar and teak in terms of price, according to Rafi.
Lastly, there's pine, which Rafi notes is ‘a very common low-cost option.’ While not a bad choice, it requires heavy treatment and regular care to maintain its appearance. If you prefer something more low-maintenance, consider expanding your budget to access cedar, teak, eucalyptus, or acacia wood.
How should I care for wood furniture?
According to architect and designer Priyanshi Jain, 'In general, wooden furniture should be wiped of any dust and debris with a soft brush or cloth.’ If you’re looking for a deeper clean, all that’s needed is water and a mild detergent — just be sure to rinse of thoroughly. Dry your furniture completely before using again 'and make sure to never use harsh chemicals as they can damage the wood from within,’ she warns.
One common care concern is whether or not to purchase a furniture cover. According to the designer, ‘they are not necessary but can provide additional protection to the furniture,' especially if you reside in a more extreme climate. ‘For instance, they can protect from direct sunlight, snow and rain, or from dirt and insects when not in use and stored inside.' And if you’re ever in doubt, know that a cover won’t hurt! It’s also a great extra low-maintenance care option if you’re not home much or want avoid regular deep cleaning or brushing.
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Formerly covering fashion at L’Officiel USA, style maven Julia Demer brings her love of design to Livingetc’s world of interiors. As the title’s New York-based Style Editor, Julia's work reflects a sharp eye for detail and an innate passion for aesthetics. Her journey began with a strong foundation in design, honing her craft at renowned establishments like The Row and even establishing her own eponymous fashion brand. Julia’s design background is evident in the way she thoughtfully curates shopping edits, always maintaining a focus on emerging trends while preserving timeless sensibilities. For Julia, fashion and interiors go hand in hand, reflecting her lifelong commitment to perfecting the art of style.
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