It’s always very pleasurable to get the patio ready for the outdoor season and May is definitely the month to get things in order.

It’s so enjoyable to know you can rely on extra seating/entertainment space whether you are planning a large family barbecue or are just having a friend over for a glass of wine. The outdoor living category has become a very big market segment in home living over the last decade or so. Each year manufacturers are coming out with more styles, designs, colour choices, seating options and accessories than ever before.

I visited Capital Iron on Store Street this week to see what is available for large patio areas. They have a really fabulous choice of sofas, loveseats, chairs and sectional combinations. Their outdoor fireplace pits, tables and heating options were wonderful too. They have lots of bright and fun colourful fabrics to choose from and if you’re afraid to put snappy bright colours inside – live a little and have them outside!

This curved sectional and ottoman came in the apple green stripe/solid combo or in a fiesta orange geometric/solid mix. This sectional would be perfect for either a round fire pit table or with the ottoman in the centre. I love it!

My next stop was to Dig This is Broadmead Village. They carry a wonderful line of outdoor furniture from Vancouver that is constructed of aluminum frames under the outdoor woven material so it is capable of being outdoors all year in our climate as the aluminum will not rust.  There are also many styles and fabrics to choose from, allowing you to create either a sophisticated five-star resort look or something fresh and fun.

Outdoor furniture is an investment, spending a little more can give you decades of outdoor enjoyment.

Sheri Peterson has been an interior designer for 22 years in Victoria. She designs for commercial, residential and hospitality clients.