After a long and dark winter, sprucing up the garden is often at the top of the priority list as soon as the sun reappears. With long summer evenings and alfresco dining in mind, a luxury garden furniture set becomes an invaluable outdoor asset. However, choosing luxurious garden dining tables, sofas and more shouldn’t just be a tick-box exercise — you’ll want to prioritise comfort without compromising on style and longevity. It can also help to know which materials are the best in terms of weatherproofing and which ones suit your personal preferences and styles.

In celebration of our Jakarta Collection being back in stock, we’ve compiled this brief guide to luxury garden furniture as well as

What is the best material for luxury garden furniture?

When choosing outdoor furniture in the UK, it's important to consider durability, weather resistance, and maintenance. Here are the top four materials and their pros and cons:

Teak (Hardwood)

Teak is a natural hardwood native to South Asia. As well as its stunningly deep woodgrain, it is known for its durability and natural resistance to splitting, cracking, fungus and weathering. Comparable woods include acacia and iroko. 

Pros: Highly durable, naturally weather-resistant, ages beautifully to a silvery-grey patina, low maintenance.
Cons: Expensive, can require occasional maintenance like oiling, heavy.

Aluminium

Aluminium is a lightweight, silvery metal extracted from bauxite, a sedimentary rock normally found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is resistant to corrosion and despite being lightweight, incredibly strong.

Pros: Lightweight, rust-resistant, low maintenance, modern look, easy to move around.
Cons: Can feel less sturdy than wood or steel, may get hot in direct sunlight, can be limited in aesthetic.

Rattan (Synthetic/PE Rattan)

Natural rattan is made from the stems of a tropical palm and is known for its strength, flexibility and durability. However, moisture can cause it to warp or become damaged. For that reason, synthetic rattan is a popular alternative. It has the same neutral look but with the added benefit of a plastic composition which ensures complete waterproofing.

Pros: Stylish, lightweight, weather-resistant (if high-quality PE rattan), comfortable, low maintenance.
Cons: Cheap versions can crack or fade over time, and may need cushions for comfort (which need storage in bad weather).

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron furniture is made by heating iron and hammering it into a desired shape. It is a more traditional and perhaps ‘old fashioned’ option that is incredibly durable but also very heavy and not that comfortable. 

Pros: Extremely sturdy and durable, classic and elegant design, wind-resistant.
Cons: Can rust if not properly coated, heavy and difficult to move, may require cushions for comfort.

What is the Jakarta Collection made from?

Each piece in the Jakarta Collection features a frame of solid acacia wood, which is a durable, water-resistant and visually stunning type of hardwood derived from the Australian acacia tree. Now commonly found throughout Asia, the Pacific Islands and parts of the Americas, acacia is the perfect wood for garden furniture thanks to its natural weather-resistant properties, much like teak.

The chairs in the collection feature a woven backrest and fabric seat cushion which can be removed for safekeeping during the winter months. The woven backrest and seat cushion cover both use rope and durable Olifen fibre fabric to create a contemporary, luxurious and subtly maritime style seat. 

What types of furniture are available in the Jakarta Collection?

You can buy Jakarta Garden Furniture as a bar set comprising four bar stools and a tall table, a dining table and chairs set for either four or six people and a relaxed lounge set with a coffee table, sofa and two armchairs. You can also purchase the dining chairs individually, should you want additional seating or to style the chairs with a different table. 

Quick & cost-effective ways to make a garden feel luxurious

Only got a few days before hosting in your garden? Want some additional inspo that doesn’t involve luxury garden furniture? Fear not, here are some quick and easy tips to have it feeling like a luxury resort in no time.

1. Add Outdoor Lighting: Use solar-powered lanterns, fairy lights, or LED spotlights for an instant ambiance boost.
2. Layer Textures with Cushions & Throws: Dress up garden seating with weatherproof cushions and soft throws for a cozy, high-end feel.
3. Use Large Planters & Statement Pots: Group together oversized planters with lush greenery for a sophisticated look.
4. Create a Simple Water Feature: A small fountain or DIY water bowl adds a tranquil, spa-like vibe.
5. Define Spaces with an Outdoor Rug: A weatherproof rug helps create a stylish "outdoor living room" effect.
6. Incorporate a DIY Fire Pit: A simple, budget-friendly fire pit makes your garden feel like a luxury retreat.
7. Arrange a Chic Dining Area: Dress up a basic table with a tablecloth, candles, and stylish dishware.
8. Add a Trellis or Climbing Plants: Install a trellis with ivy, jasmine, or roses for a lush, elegant backdrop.
9. Refresh Furniture with a Lick of Paint: Repaint tired wooden furniture in modern neutrals or bold statement colours.
10. Use Mirrors to Reflect Light & Space: A weatherproof mirror can make a small garden feel larger and more glamorous.