First things first. What is an outdoor sofa? An outdoor sofa is similar to a regular sofa, but it’s made to withstand the elements. Usually made with durable materials such as metal, rattan, treated solid wood, or weather-proof fabrics, the outdoor sofa is the pinnacle of outdoor furniture. It’s where you can truly create the finishing touch to transform your backyard, and it’s important to consider what you need from this piece of furniture – whether it’s for hosting larger groups for summer barbecues, cozy movie nights for the kids, for you to curl up in the morning with a cup of coffee, or just some good old lounging outdoors.
Depending on your needs, you can then decide on the outdoor sofa that fits your space. Outdoor sofas usually come in a few modular offerings – spacious sectionals, 2-3 seaters, and most usually come with extra lounge armchairs as part of the set if the need arises. Apart from how the outdoor sofa looks, always remember to consider how much space you have – a sofa for an apartment deck would be very different from one that should sit comfortably in a large backyard. Other factors include your budget, layout of the space, the surface that the sofa will be placed on (gravel vs wooden deck, for example), a style that complements your home, and most importantly, how much maintenance are you willing to do to keep the outdoor sofa looking good.
To start your hunt for the best outdoor sofa, here are a few models that we have selected to be the best of this season for all your summer lounging needs.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Castlery Sierra Sofa
2. Crate & Barrel Dune 2-Piece Outdoor Sectional Sofa with Left-Arm Chaise
3. West Elm Playa Outdoor Reversible Sectional
1. Castlery Sierra Sofa
Price (2023): $1,799
The Sierra Sofa by direct-to-consumer Singaporean brand Castlery is one of our favourites. Made with a smooth weather-proof aluminium body, wicker frame, and topped with plush cushions that come in removable water-resistant cushion covers, the Sierra is stylish and well-crafted at prices that do not break the bank. Plus, it easily allows two people to lounge comfortably at the same time, yet does not overwhelm smaller outdoor spaces.
| What’s good | What’s not so good |
| Slipcoverable Removable cushion covers so you can get rid of those lemonade spills | Slightly lower back height A little lacking when one needs to lay back and relax |
| Stylish The wicker frame and oat beige cushion covers fit most spaces | |
| Comfortable Luxurious and plush cushions, plus armrests for more comfort factor |
Overall dimension: 92.5” w x 33.9” d x 29.9” h
Seat depth: 23.6”
Seats: 3-4 adults comfortably
Who is this for: Young families with 1-2 kids with a moderate-sized patio will find the Sierra perfect. If you enjoy taking naps on your sofa, hosting small outdoor gatherings, and have Japandi inspired visuals scattered throughout your Pinterest, the Sierra is for you.
Feeling of the first sit: It feels well-crafted and sturdy, and we love that the cushions are very plush yet provides great support.
Warranty: Castlery provides a limited 3-year warranty for the frame structure, and a 1-year warranty for soft furnishings such as foam and fabric, and other components such as zips. For extra peace of mind, you can purchase a Mulberry extended protection plan too.
Why we like it: The Sierra comes fully assembled, so you can enjoy it as soon as it arrives.
2. Crate & Barrel Dune 2-Piece Black Outdoor Sectional Sofa with Left-Arm Chaise
Price (2023): $2,998
Our couch surfing adventures for this review led us to Crate & Barrel – where Dune sleekly stood out in the store. Built with outdoor grade metal frames and a durable black synthetic mesh that’s especially attractive due to its resistance to fading, mould, tears and stains, Dune also sports cushions that are made with Sunbrella® – a special UV- and weather-resistant acrylic fabric. More importantly, it comes in black.
| What’s good | What’s not so good |
| Low-maintenance Removable cushion covers so you can wash them every season | Minor maintenance required Regular use of stainless steel cleaner is required |
| Slipcoverable Removable cushion covers so you can wash them every season | |
| Lightweight Its light construction means that it’s easy to move indoors when the weather gets bad |
Overall dimension: 129” w x 65” d x 31.25” h
Seat depth: 25.5”
Seats 3-4 adults comfortably
Who is this for: If black is your colour, then this is for you. The all-black Dune is stylish, sleek, utilitarian, yet seats 3 adults comfortably. Perfect for the modern home. If you’re looking for something a little more toned down, it also comes in a covertly chic Taupe.
Feeling of the first sit: It feels a little more firm, thanks to the polyfoam cushions with polyester fibre batting.
Warranty: Crate and Barrel does not advertise any warranty on their website, but they do have a return policy for items within 90 days of receipt.
Why we like it: We love that Crate & Barrel is known for their superior quality and comfort, and Sunbrella fabric is considered the gold standard for outdoor use. One reviewer reported that their sofa remained in great condition even after years on the patio.
3. West Elm Playa Outdoor Reversible Sectional
Price (2023): $1,749
This modular wood-framed sofa comes with a loose chaise that allows you to stretch right out. Inspired by clean Scandinavian design aesthetics, the Playa adds a cool presence to any deck. A plus in our books: It’s also made in Indonesia with sustainability sourced eucalyptus and mahogany wood.
| What’s good | What’s not so good |
| Plush and comfortable Soft cushions and that modular chaise that allows extra stretch space | Not waterproof Requires use of furniture cover and removal of cushions during bad weather |
| Quality materials Withstands use due to strong kiln-dried sustainability sourced wood | |
| Aesthetic Great design and wooden finishing that works both indoors and outdoors |
Overall dimension: 92” w x 63.6” d x 33” h
Seat depth: 24.25”
Seats 2-3 adults comfortably
Who is this for: If you like the look and feel of wood, this is a stylish option for you. For families who love entertaining, you can complete the L-shaped Playa with a lounge chair and coffee table set for more summer party possibilities.
Feeling of the first sit: The deep seat depth and higher back height are very much appreciated, while the water resistant cushions with polyurethane foam and polyester filling are thick, soft and inviting. One thing’s for sure – It’s large enough to nap and curl up comfortably.
Warranty: No warranty policy is available on West Elm’s website, but they accept all returns within 30 days of purchase. Save the hassle and opt for their excellent White Glove Service to bring the piece to your home fully assembled.
Why we like it: The neutral palette and use of solid wood brings a touch of warmth to any space, and you can always add interesting upholstery or cushions to brighten up the space. While wood will always develop a beautiful patina over time, do get a cover for this to protect it from the elements if you want to retain its natural wood finish for longer.
The best thing about most outdoor sofas? They’re always modular so you can rearrange them in different ways to fit your requirements, be it a backyard gathering or a cosy hang out. Fresh air, sunlight, a delicious glass of lemonade – now go and level up the way you lounge and enjoy that sweet outdoor space! You’ve earned it.
Not a fan of any of the sofas above? That’s cool (for the summer). Take a look at our review of the IKEA Äpplarö outdoor sofa, it could just be the outdoor sofa that you need.