Out-Standing Furniture & Fabrics

Beautiful, long-lasting and easy to clean; the new outdoor fabrics make living with children, pets, and even Mother Nature worry free.

Everyone loves to spend time outside. These new fabrics let you bring out your inner sense of style. The tough, long-lasting fabrics handle the worst Mother Nature can give, year after year. From the baking sun to endless rain, furniture featuring Sunbrella fabric looks great in any season, and is backed by the best limited

With the new outdoor fabrics, you don't just pick out a furniture fabric, you choose a lifestyle, which is why the fabrics are designed to support you and your family for years to come.

Wash & Care Instructions - 100% saturated acrylic fabric with a soil and stain resistant finish that makes cleanup a breeze. Sunbrella fabric may be spot washed with a solution of natural soap and luke warm water. Use fabric spot remover for stubborn stains, rinse and air dry.

Design Lesson: Increase Your Living Space

Increase your living space with a well designed outdoor livingroom and dining room. Follow these tips to create the ultimate extension of your lifestyle:

* Do determine the function of each area and furnish accordingly.

* Do design a plan with varied light sources. Lanterns and torches provide general illumination; powerful downlights are good for tables and seating areas. Incorporate decorative lighting, such as uplighting, for sculptural drama and fixed spots for highlighting pathways.

* Do use freestanding furniture that echoes the feel of interior spaces; a buffet or cart for serving and storage.

* Do change flooring materials to define areas, such as dining and sunbathing. Even a slight modification to pattern alerts people to changes in level, which is especially important for seniors and children.

* Don't overlook accessories. No room, indoors or out can be truly personal without valued objects. A stone sculpture, weathered sundial or inviting bird bath will increase the enjoyment you get from your oasis.

* Don't choose delicate furniture unless you have adequate storage that's easy to access. Cast aluminum or teak can remain outdoors year round. Need Inspiration? Come in to Essential Living and experience our 2008 Outdoor Collection.

* Don't leave seating areas exposed to the elements. Incorporate mature planting like tall evergreens or vine covered trellises for privacy, wind blockage and shade. Plant climbing roses, clematis or Chinese wisteria to create a wall of florals.

* Don't ignore the storage potential of built in seating, serving counters and elevated decks. Banquette seating maximizes space and, with extra plump cushions and pillows, is very comfortable and inviting<