FEATURES – DESIGN
Outdoor furniture once it has been treated. Image: Woodoc Exterior window blinds. Image: Steyn City
He adds that today, there are opportunities and information that allow
people to create their own trends as opposed to following them. When
deciding on suitable outdoor furniture, van Niekerk suggests that
people gather ideas and pictures to look for possibilities available in
their environment.
Even though there are no limits with regards to using timber for pergolas
and outdoor furniture, there are certain considerations that must be
considered before deciding. One of the most important considerations is
space. The availability of space outside can be a determining factor with
the regards to the type of pergola design you choose. If the pergola is going
to be used mostly as an entertainment area for hosting guests, then it’s
ideal to have bigger space outside. Space also needs to be considered if the
pergola is going to be used as a frame at entrances. The same applies for
outdoor furniture. An abundance of space allows for bigger tables, chairs
and benches. In addition, statues and ornaments can also be added outside.
Another important consideration for pergolas is privacy. For increased
privacy, it is advisable to choose a structure that is not too exposed. This
can be done by having a structure attached to a house or growing climbing
plants up the columns that support the roofing grid. It is also better to
select a closed roofing grid as opposed to an open one for
increased privacy.
Budget is also a determining factor in the type of pergola structure or
outdoor furniture you can afford. “Budget is always something to consider,
but this should not be an excuse for you not to express your own creativity
and uniqueness. Find dedicated people to assist,” says Van Niekerk.
Budget will also determine the type of timber you can afford for a
pergola structure or outdoor furniture pieces. Leeroy Deane, who owns The
Pole Yard, explains that in general, tanalised wood or chromated copper
arsenate (CCA) wood is a suitable timber for pergolas. “It is the best and
most cost-effective. One can use hard woods such as garapa and balau if
desired. Special preparation is needed if there is ground contact,”
says Deane. "If properly cared for,
outdoor furniture can last
virtually forever. If not
properly cared for, it will fall
apart within a few years."
www.poleyard.co.za
Poles • Timber • Fencing • Jungle Gyms
Decking • Garden Furniture
Garden Products
Noordhoek:
Retreat:
Paarden Eiland:
Vredenburg:
(021) 789 2083
(021) 701 8118
(021) 510 4477
(022) 719 1828
// JUNE / JULY 2 r30