Fancy, rustic, elegant, extravagant, exotique, colorful... There is an adjective for every set and a set for every taste. Today's backyards or patios are furnished in the same way that we furnish the house, with the same comfort and elegance because they have become an integral part of our lives. We also expect our garden furniture to be comfortable, sturdy and long lasting.

Many differents materials are available on the market, to choose first go with your taste and style, the style of you house and garden area and of course your budget.

Plastic patio sets: it is the most attractive for your wallet. Produce in many different colors, it is ideal to brighten your back yard or terrace. Easy to care for and practical, it is very resistant to the elements. It will last longer if you bring it in during the winter months.

Metal patio sets: only wrought iron can bring that old time romantic touch to your garden or your patio. Not as inexpensive as plastic, it used to require regular maintenance to keep it good looking and avoid rust, but today's treatment has banished rust. You can give it your personal touch by choosing colorful cushions and a good looking table cloth. For a more contemporary designer look, choose a set in aluminum! Less expensive that other metals and more in. It also has a good life span expectation.

Wood patio sets: turn your attention to exotic woods, they are more weather resistant. Woods like teak, or iroko are certainly more expensive but they look much better and will last forever. They give you the assurance of a tropical ambiance in your own back yard.

The materials for patio furniture that I have listed here are pretty traditional but today's designer have found ways to use them that are most innovative and beautiful I give you here a few of the designs that are unusual, charming, some are functional and all are just fun.

First let's look at this obelisk, it is pure genius. It is made of synthetic woven fibers by Dedon. This strange monolith holds a complete set, a table and 4 chairs. It only takes a few minutes to change this artful piece into a superb seating area. Just one word of caution this great piece will not spare your wallet as it sells for around €5000.

The designers at Ferlea of Italy have  created this most surprising looking Funky Pop chair. Now it might look like anything you might associate with the concept of a chair, but if you are looking for unusual furniture this is the one for you.

Beautiful design is not the exclusive domain of European furniture makers. UrbanLounge a company located in Chicago gives us this ergonomic chair designed by designer, carpenter, musician all around talented Scott Collins. This minimal aesthetic chair will soon be joined by a few supporting pieces, a table, a side chair and a bench.

If you like to take you outdoor chairs along this one is for you. It comes from Trip Trap a company in Denmark. Take it to the beach or to the ball game and you will definitely be noticed. The chair only has 3 pieces which when assembled make for comfortable seating. While it was designed for portability I think it makes a remarkable chair for indoor use that you can tuck away when not needed.