With Easter disappearing in the rearview mirror and the leftover Easter egg chocolate now all eaten, summer suddenly doesn’t feel so far away.
We all know what that means – it’s time to revamp our gardens and outdoor spaces ready for all the fun, frolics and frivolity that only the warmest weeks of the year can provide.
And what better way to do that than by incorporating organic and natural furniture elements? Not only do they add an earthy, rustic charm to your garden, but they’re also eco-friendly and sustainable. What’s not to love? With that in mind, here are 7 organic and natural furniture elements that you can add to your garden this summer.
Rattan Furniture
Let’s kick off our list with one of the garden’s favourite pieces – rattan garden furniture. Rattan is a vine-like plant native to Southeast Asia, making it a perfect choice for those looking to add a tropical vibe to their garden. It’s lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant, so it’s ideal for outdoor use. You can find a wide range of rattan furniture pieces, from lounge chairs and sofas to dining sets and coffee tables – the choice is yours.
And the best part? Rattan furniture has a timeless appeal, ensuring your garden stays stylish for years to come. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to invite your friends over for a tiki-themed party!
Read: 5 garden ideas for bringing our favourite destinations home this year
Reclaimed Wood Furniture
Reclaimed wood furniture is an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of history and character to their garden. Made from salvaged wood sourced from old buildings, barns, and other structures, reclaimed wood furniture is not only eco-friendly but also tells a story.
Each piece has its unique markings, knots, and grains, adding a sense of warmth and charm to your outdoor space. From dining tables and benches to planter boxes and garden gates, there’s no shortage of ways to incorporate reclaimed wood into your garden design.
Bamboo Accents
If you’re looking for a sustainable and versatile material, look no further than bamboo. Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that can be harvested without killing the plant, making it an eco-friendly option for your garden. It’s also incredibly strong and durable, so it’s perfect for outdoor use.
You can incorporate bamboo into your garden in various ways – from fencing and screens to furniture and decorative accents. Add a bamboo bench or a set of bamboo chairs to create a cosy seating area, or use bamboo poles to build a pergola or trellis for climbing plants.
Natural Stone Features
Nothing says “organic” quite like natural stone. Adding stone elements to your garden not only creates a sense of permanence and stability but also adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Consider using flagstone or slate for your garden pathways, or create a stunning patio with pavers made from travertine or Dijon limestone. You can also use natural stone for retaining walls, fire pits, and water features. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, why not add a beautiful stone sculpture as a focal point in your garden?
Living Furniture
Why settle for ordinary garden furniture when you can have living furniture? Living furniture is created by shaping and manipulating live plants into functional pieces, such as chairs, tables, and benches.
The most common plant used for this purpose is willow, which is flexible and easy to work with. However, you can also use other plants like ivy, grapevines, or even fruit trees. Not only does living furniture look stunning, but it’s also a great conversation starter – just imagine the look on your guests’ faces when they realise they’re sitting on a living chair. Hmm, sounds rather creepy when you put it like that actually…
Woven Grass Mats & Rugs
Add a touch of comfort and style to your garden with woven grass mats and rugs. Made from natural materials like seagrass, jute, or sisal, these mats and rugs are not only eco-friendly but also incredibly durable and weather-resistant. They’re perfect for defining seating areas, adding texture to your patio, or providing a soft surface for barefoot strolls through your garden. Plus, they’re easy to clean – just give them a good shake or hose them down when they get dirty.
Tree Stump Seating & Tables
Last but very much not least, let’s not forget about the humble tree stump. If you’ve recently had a tree removed from your garden or have access to some tree stumps, why not repurpose them into unique seating and tables?
Tree stumps can be used as-is, or you can sand and seal them for a smoother finish. You can even paint or stain them to match your garden’s colour scheme. Arrange a few tree stumps around a fire pit for an intimate gathering spot, or use a large tree stump as a side table for your outdoor lounge area.
The Bottom Line
Adding organic and natural furniture elements to your garden is a fantastic way to create an inviting and eco-friendly outdoor space. With options like rattan furniture, reclaimed wood, bamboo accents, natural stone features, living furniture, woven grass mats, and tree stump seating, you’re sure to find the perfect pieces to make your garden shine this summer.
So go ahead, embrace Mother Nature with arms wide open (she gives great cuddles), and give your garden a stylish and sustainable makeover!