Although there have been no drastic changes in outdoor furniture design, the design has evolved. For example, whereas wood was the only material used in the past, it is now combined with several other materials, although it remains the main material.

Changes in outdoor furniture design that utilize other materials are inevitable and help save wood resources. These products combine outdoor furniture with other materials, such as iron for the frame, fabric for the seat and backrest, and brass and stainless steel.

Changes in outdoor furniture design are usually limited to details such as the design of the backrest, armrests, and chair legs, as well as how the pieces are connected. Typically, outdoor furniture consists of garden chairs and tables, sunbathing lounge chairs, and walkways or garden tiles made from small pieces of wood.

Aluminum was specifically chosen for the main frame of the furniture. This change was made because aluminum is more readily available than teak wood. Typically, the main frame, which is usually curved and requires a large amount of wood, is replaced with aluminum. It is hoped that this business will have a longer lifespan.

The outdoor furniture is designed to be strong, functional, beautiful, and ergonomic for optimal comfort. The design is kept simple to save space and is created with a knock-down or disassembly system. This system is designed to be as simple as possible, so even housewives can easily disassemble and reassemble the outdoor chairs or tables.

Outdoor furniture colors generally use natural wood tones, with only the aluminum, iron, plastic, or canvas fabric dyed. The use of natural wood colors is based on market surveys indicating that natural colors are still popular. Outdoor furniture designs can last approximately five years. Some designs are sunbathing chairs, which are typically placed near swimming pools. These chairs were once fixed in place, but now have flexible, adjustable backrests to suit the user’s preferences.

Wooden outdoor furniture is not outdated; it’s all about how we process it and combine it with canvas, iron, or aluminum. Nyatoh wood furniture, for example, treated with teak oil, can be crafted into various pieces, such as chairs, tables, and folding chairs. The wood is combined not only with canvas, but also with rattan and stone. One of the strengths of Indonesian artisans is their ability to quickly adapt to new designs. They can create anything with various finishing techniques and combinations, and the results are versatile.

–sh