The right outdoor furniture can make summer soirees that much more enjoyable. Lounging in a comfortable patio chair is a great way to spend a warm summer evening. But choosing the right outdoor furniture for your patio is about more than finding the most comfortable chair. The following are a few tips for homeowners looking to make the most of their patio space.

Consider the function of your patio. Some homeowners can’t go a weekend without having guests over to entertain, while others prefer their patios to serve as a peaceful retreat from everyone and everything. If you’re among the former, then you will likely want your patio to resemble an outdoor dining area, which means you will need room for a table and multiple chairs. If you want the patio to serve as a retreat, then you likely won’t need a full dining set. Instead, choose a small table and one or two dining chairs, decorating the rest of the patio with a chaise longue or two, which allows you to stretch out and take a nap if you so desire.

Opt for low-maintenance furniture. When choosing outdoor furniture, keep in mind that the patio and the furniture on it is meant to offer a place to unwind and relax. Furniture that must be constantly cleaned or covered up because it can’t brave the elements cuts into your relaxation time. All-weather wicker pieces and metal chairs can brave the elements, and even do so for years and years.

Consider double-sided cushions. When constantly exposed to the sun, the fabric on cushions can fade fast. Though some homeowners combat this by keeping an umbrella open or adding an awning to cover the patio, that’s not always a practical solution. Instead, consider double-sided cushions that can be flipped every so often to reduce fading.

Don’t overlook weight. Heavy outdoor furniture might seem more stable, but such items also are more difficult to move. That’s tricky for homeowners who like to rearrange their patio furniture or those who prefer to move their furnishings into a shed to reduce their exposure to the elements. If you frequently move your outdoor furniture, then opt for items that are lightweight to make all those trips to the garage or shed a little easier.