"sunny South-facing gardens should avoid this outdoor furniture type, according to landscape designers, as it can bring both a benefit and a drawback"
South-Facing Gardens Require Careful Furniture Choices Due to Intense Sunlight
Garden furniture, just like people, can suffer from the effects of prolonged sun exposure. A seat cushion or metal bench left in direct sunlight can become so hot that it becomes uncomfortable to sit on. To prevent this, it's important to consider the sunlight exposure when selecting outdoor furniture for a south-facing garden.
When it comes to color, dark hues like black, navy blue, and charcoal gray trap heat more than lighter shades. Andy Wu, an outdoor living expert and founder of Backyard Oasis, advises against using black furniture in a south-facing garden as it can reach temperatures thirty to forty degrees hotter than the surrounding air and even cause burns. Instead, opt for lighter colors such as sage or dove gray, which reduce heat gain without sacrificing appearance. White furniture can be visually appealing, but it can be quite reflective and difficult to clean in a south-facing garden.
Glass-topped tables are also best avoided in a south-facing garden as they reflect glare and retain heat, potentially leading to discomfort and even danger. Instead, opt for materials like concrete, stone, or teak for outdoor coffee and dining tables.
Meta or plastic furniture should be avoided due to their propensity to conduct heat and fade quickly under direct sunlight. While it's possible to incorporate metal furniture into a south-facing garden, it's important to pair them with plush cushions or tablecloths to reduce direct contact with the metal surface.
To protect outdoor furniture from sun damage, consider applying UV-protectant spray to plastics or outdoor textiles. Taking covers or cushions inside when they're not in use and choosing solution-dyed acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella can also help prevent fading. Shade structures like pergolas or parasols can help prevent furniture from fading while also adding a stylish touch to the garden.
By choosing lighter colors and appropriate materials, it's possible to create a cooler and more durable outdoor space in a south-facing garden. Proper planning can ensure that garden furniture remains comfortable and functional all year round.
- In the realm of south-facing gardens, furniture choices matter, as the intense sunlight can lead to heat-related issues.
- Dark colors like black, navy blue, and charcoal gray should be avoided in such gardens, as they trap heat excessively and can reach scorching temperatures.
- A better option would be lighter colors such as sage or dove gray, which help in reducing heat gain without compromising aesthetic appeal.
- White furniture, despite its visual charm, can be too reflective and hard to maintain in a south-facing garden.
- Glass-topped tables are best avoided due to their propensity to reflect glare and retain heat, potentially leading to discomfort or danger.
- To keep outdoor furniture durable and comfortable, consider applying UV-protectant spray to plastics or outdoor textiles, or choose solution-dyed acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella.
- Additionally, shade structures such as pergolas or parasols can be beneficial, as they not only protect furniture from sun damage but also add a stylish element to the home-and-garden lifestyle.
