We have a few items from Pottery Barn's Chesapeake Collection. I hate to be a Negative Nancy, but I've been really disappointed with the quality. After only 2 years, the wood is splitting and warping. I've had to re-stain it twice since the dark finish rubbed off easily. Also the wood umbrella from PB snapped in half. If I had to do it all over again, I would buy cheaper pieces, like the ones below (since I can't afford the really good stuff yet). HomeGoods and Target seem to have nice looking pieces too, so be sure to check those out.
From World Market...
From IKEA...
$50 - AMMERÖ Chair
$150 - AMMERÖ Table
$60 - VINÖ Chair
$70 - NORDANÖ Armchair
$200 - NORDANÖ Table
$15 - HÅLLÖ Cushion
$13 - GRENÖ Cushion
$20 - BLANKÖ Chair
From Pier 1...
$250 - Adjustable Chaise Lounge
$249 - Lutyens Wooden Outdoor Bench
The key maintenance factors are covering the furniture when possible (which I hate the look of) and making sure that all wooden areas are treated consistently. I was told to put teak oil (even though it's not teak) on the Chesapeake table, chairs, and chaises after complaining to Pottery Barn about the warping/splitting. Getting this advice AFTER most of the damage had occurred was much less helpful than had PB given it at the time of purchase, but whatever.
With that said...although I prefer the look of wood, metal or plastic wicker are definitely the most carefree options. We have this resort outdoor sectional from CB2 that is resin wicker, and it looks brand new.
We also have some of these $60 wicker stacking chairs from Pier 1. They're great too...just hose them off when they need cleaning.
I love the look of these... Rex Arm Chair from CB2 - $70
Do you have outdoor furniture that you love or hate? Ever bought from any of the retailers mentioned? If so, please share your thoughts!
