Patio furniture has been around for centuries. During its time, and in the present, it has gained various names. It is known also as garden furniture – for the place it was initially placed. It is also referred to as outdoor furniture – a means of distinguishing it from the indoor variety. In addition to names, it has also altered its composition, shape and style. This usually conforms to tastes and material availability of the time and geographic region. In Victorian times, for example, Wicker was favored; today patio furniture and other companies utilize a plastic substance.
The Origins of Patio Furniture
It may be argued that early mankind employed outdoor furniture every time they sat outside. Rocks, stumps and other natural substances allowed them to sit out of doors. This has been true throughout the ages, but the use of such materials does not necessarily make them patio or garden furniture. To find examples of this, you need to look to the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans.
In fact, the earliest surviving samples of what can be referred to as garden furniture once stood in the Greek city of Pompeii. The remains of other outdoor furniture before and after are scarce or existent – although some do remain from the Egyptians. This is because one of the most common materials from which to construct comfortable chairs in which to sit or lounge was wicker. While durable, wicker does suffer from various problems resulting in disintegration over the years.
The
Victorians
The desire to place furniture outside in a garden was a
popular one throughout Europe. While some large English and French
gardens e.g. Versailles of different ages had strategically placed
ruins, benches were also incorporated for better viewing. Some were
carved from stone; others were forged of metal. These also made their
way into smaller parks and into the gardens of individual’s homes.
While metal and stone were used, certain classes of Victorian England preferred to turn wicker. They chose it for a perceived sanitary quality as well as for its comfort and look. They placed it inside and outside, enjoying its simple, elegant lines and versatility. This fashion made its way over the pond to the United States.
American Garden or Patio Furniture
Wicker outdoor furniture became popular in Victorian times. It was soon found on the front porches of many families. This was not to be the case for long in the Southern states. The temperature frowned on upholstered items and, sometimes, wicker was difficult to care for. As a result, wrought iron became the favored material for outdoor furniture.
In 1903, more casual and comfortable furniture began to appear in New York State – courtesy of the wood Adirondack Chair. By 1905, the casual look was common for summer homes and beaches. After the 1930s, casual was the style. Outdoor furniture passed from wicker to wood to aluminum in search of the perfect style and materials. By the 1950s, homes across America had patio furniture. It was now an integral part of the American lifestyle, particularly in the suburbs.
The Movement Towards Modernity – Breezesta Patio Furniture
With advancements in technology, people could hope for a product that resembled wood, was as durable as certain metals but required little maintenance. The result was the invention of the poly lumber or poly woods. This is responsible for such things as Breezesta Patio Furniture. It answers this request without forgetting that patio furniture must always be true to its roots of comfort, style and stability.
If you are interested in purchasing some stylish, durable and comfortable outdoor furniture, look no further than those offered by Palm Casual. They are homes to Breezesta Patio Furniture and other elegant creations. To learn more about Cast Aluminum Furniture visit them online.
