Outdoor Benches & Accessories and Commercial Benches

In a Material World

First, consider what the bench is made of, and what will work best in your climate. According to Hayneedle senior buyer James Goddard, wood still reigns supreme, but it's best for seasonal use and should be treated yearly with linseed oil or other such protectants to keep it in good shape. The best woods for weathering the elements include cedar, cypress, shorea, acacia and teak. These wood types are best at resisting rot and insects, and all of them age well.

For rugged durability and outdoor benches you can leave outside in any weather, concrete and stone are, of course, lifetime pieces perfect for a permanent spot in your outside space. Many are engravable.

Also consider recycled plastic. Not only is it a green, mindful choice, but you wouldn't believe how realistic today's plastic designs look. Whether resin wicker or cedar-lookalike Adirondack benches, recycled plastic is maintenance-free. Just hose it off season after season.

Trending: Task Masters and Tradition

Goddard says that dual-purpose, outdoor storage benches and deck boxes are super popular as well as stylish. Wood benches with flip-up tops are perfect for storing and protecting brightly colored cushions so hot right now, plus bocce balls, badminton, or books ... whatever your summer fancy. These multi-taskers are great solutions for small outdoor spaces, too.

Another trend is outdoor benches made for specific locations, such as tree benches, which – you guessed it – surround the base of a tree, or firepit benches curved or straight to match the latest designs in firepit sets.

By far the most popular, according to Goddard, remain traditional wood benches. Warm, comfortable, and often with a hint of Secret Garden ambience, a well-made wooden bench always invites you to take a seat.