Whether it’s a balcony, a patio, a back yard or a garden that you’ve got – if the weather this summer is kind then, odds are, you are going to want to spend some time sitting out in it.

But on what?

Seating is important. Get it right and you’ll be adding another ‘room’ to your living area that you can use all year round. Get it wrong and you’ll just feel frustration every time that the sun shines and you have nowhere outside from which to enjoy it.

When considering what sort of seating arrangement is right for you there are a few points that are worth considering.

Make sure the furniture is the right size so that it works for entertaining yet doesn't swamp the space. And think about whether you want a matching set or a more informal mismatched collection.

A mix of permanent and temporary is ideal. You can enjoy the convenience of benches or cast concrete seating all year round but you will need to store your designer items away from the damaging effects of rain, wind and frosts in the winter.

Hardwood is a great choice for outdoors; teak and iroko need very little care and both weather to a beautiful silver-grey. Hardwood can also be left outside all year so is a good choice if indoor storage is tight. Before you buy, check that the wood is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified to ensure it comes from a sustainable source.

Cast Iron, Aluminium and Tubular Chrome

Metal outdoor furniture ranges from traditional to contemporary shapes and French cafe styles. Cast Iron, Aluminium and Tubular Chrome furniture can be left outside in summer but should come inside in winter months; the occasional new coat of metal paint, such as Hammerite, will help to keep it rust-free.

Plastic furniture is an easy-care option and will just need a good clean with soapy water at the start and end of the summer. It's lightweight and comes in a variety of styles and colours, from sculptural shapes to faux-wicker effects. It's best to bring plastic furniture in for winter, as very cold weather can make plastic brittle.

If you are choosing fabrics for alfresco living, cotton is soft, dries quickly and comes in many colours and prints. Tightly woven, heavy-weight cotton canvases withstand outdoor living better, but colours fade in strong sunlight and cushions have to be brought in when it rains or at night, and in the winter.

Acrylic or olefin outdoor cushions feel like canvas yet don't fade easily and can be wiped clean. Make sure to put them away at night. Look for fabrics treated with a water repellent, or spray cotton with an Outdoor Fabric Protector.