Prepping Your Cottage for Summer: Furniture and Fabric
Lighting: Serena & Lily Pacifica Outdoor Pendant
Sectional Sofa: Rockston Sofa collection from Southport Outdoor with sunbrella striped & solid fabric
Rug: Similar from Article.com
Dining Table: Portside table from West Elm
Dining Chairs: Zina dining chair in heather grey from Article.com
As the days get longer and the promise of warmer weather approaches, it's time to shift our focus to prepping our cottage & outdoor spaces for the summer months. From choosing the right outdoor furniture to considering the best materials for outdoor living, here's a quick guide to ensure your retreat is ready.
When to Order Outdoor Furniture: Timing is Everything
The process of transforming your cottage into a summer oasis begins with outdoor furniture. However, keep in mind that furniture orders can take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks. To avoid any last-minute rushed decisions, the ideal time to make decorating decisions for your cottage is during the winter and early spring. Planning ahead ensures that your outdoor haven is ready and waiting when the warm weather finally arrives.
If your cottage is in a remote location, finding suitable furniture nearby can be a challenge. Save yourself the hassle of last-minute shopping by planning ahead and sourcing furniture well in advance that offer shipping or delivery to your location. Remember, the goal is to relax at the cottage, not spend valuable time hunting for a comfortable sun lounger.
Choosing Outdoor Furniture: Our Favourite Sources
Selecting the right outdoor furniture is crucial for creating a comfortable and inviting space. Whether you prefer a classic aesthetic or a more modern vibe, there are plenty of options to suit your taste.
Here are a few of our favourite places to shop for outdoor furniture in Toronto:
Southport Outdoor Living - Although most of their frames are imported (and therefore not customizable) all of their cushions are made locally and you have lots of options for fabrics. They also stock both condo size and large furniture.
Hauser - Currently having a pre-season sale. Known for very durable and high quality furniture, also our go-to for large (and sturdy!) umbrellas.
West Elm - For current trends in finishes and shapes, West Elm is a reliable source, that ships to many locations. I even have had it delivered to rural Prince Edward Island. Note* When buying retail, I find the cushion quality typically isn’t great, the fabrics often stain and loose shape. But thats OK, you can enjoy them for a few summers, and then bring back to the city with you at some point in the future and have the cushions remade at a local upholstery shop.
Photo: Ikea Hyltarp Slip Covers
Budget-Friendly Furniture Options: Slipcovers and Faking It
If you're looking for budget-friendly furniture options, consider affordable slipcovers like the IKEA Hyltarp. Expert tip: buy an extra slipcover while you are at it. IKEA is known to discontinue things faster than you can say cancel culture. For a medium-budget option, Four Seasons Furniture (not the hotel) is the mainstay of many Canadian furniture stores, offering slipcovered sofas with solid frames. You can also consider upgrading cushions with feather options.
Fabrics and Materials: Embrace the Best for Cottage Living
When it comes to choosing fabrics for cottage furniture, comfort is paramount but durability can’t be overlooked. You want your retreat to feel cozy and casual, but the last thing you want is plastic dominating your outdoor space. Consider fabrics that won’t leave the backs of your legs feeling sweaty, but can also withstand a summer rain storm. Outdoor fabrics have come a long way and options such as solution dyed acrylics allow for fabrics that have the feel of linen, but with the durability of a Little Tikes slide.
Investing time and thought into prepping your cottage in the early spring ensures that it becomes a seamless extension of your lifestyle during the warmer months. By planning ahead and selecting the right fabrics, furniture and rugs for your space, you’ll be ready to embrace the upcoming cottage season with your feet up (on just the right ottoman ;))
