A Storage Sofa Keeps Your Patio Looking Great and Organized
With the growing trend of expanding our living spaces to the outdoors, patios have become a highly valued part of many homes. From cozy dining spaces to lounging areas perfect for parties, patios enable us to enjoy fresh air and sunshine without sacrificing comfort.
However, the downside of more intensive patio usage is the clutter that seems to accumulate from various accessories and belongings. This is where the brilliant solution of an outdoor sofa with storage underneath comes in handy.
Finding the Right Spot on Your Patio
When choosing the ideal spot for your new storage sofa, first measure the entire area you have available. Note dimensions, placements of other furniture pieces, and how people and traffic typically flow in the space.
Next, decide if a spacious sectional makes more sense, or if a standard loveseat or three-seater couch is the right size. Sectionals can be configured in different shapes, while still offering ample built-in storage compartments.
Key Design Choices for Maximizing Storage
Storage sofas come in both backless and full-backed designs. Backless is more affordable, but may have less inherent storage capacity. The inclusion of arms, seat, and back compartments greatly increases storage real estate.
Removable lidded seat and arm storage with interior organizing systems will make access and keeping items tidy easier. When planning your DIY build, carefully measure desired storage dimensions ahead of time.
Best Materials for Durability and Weather-Resistance
For longevity in outdoor use, the best sofa frame materials are teak, synthetic rattan wicker made to mimic natural wicker's look, or aluminum and other metals using a protective powder-coated finish.
Pine, meranti and bamboo woods can also be utilized if properly treated with water-repellent sealants prior to assembly. Be sure to frequently apply fresh sealant coats throughout the seasons.
Step-By-Step Building Instructions
Constructing your own storage sofa requires basic tools like a saw, drill, sander and staple gun, plus materials such as wood, fasteners and fabric. Refer to detailed building diagrams with measurements to assemble the box frame structure.
Allow ample drying time for wood treatments and sealants to cure before adding cushions. DIY-style removable seat and arm storage compartments will enable accessing interior storage space.
Decorating and Styling Your Storage Sofa
Select cushions in weather-resistant fabrics that complement your decor. Fitted cushion covers in materials like canvas resist moisure. Store cushions inside the sofa when not in use.
Incorporate weatherproof accent pillows and throws in coordinating colors and patterns for additional visual interest. Umbrellas, side tables and patio heaters extend seasons of use.
Getting Creative With Storage Uses
Patio cushion storage is an obvious application, but don't overlook stashing away garden tools, pool floaties and toys inside storage arms and underseat compartments to keep clutter at bay.
Gain garage or shed space back by housing outdoor essentials conveniently within your storage sofa itself. Everything right where you need it, yet out of sight and protected.
Reasons Your Patio Needs a Storage Sofa
- Keeps patio looking tidy while housing necessary items
- Makes an organized spot for stashing party supplies or pet gear
- Provides quick access to belongings without digging in separate storage
- Built-in storage capacity without sacrificing style
- Multifunctional solution saves space in garage or shed
Q: How difficult is it to DIY compared to buying pre-made?
A: With good skills, proper plans and tools, intermediate DIYers can tackle building their own storage sofa as a weekend project. Buying pre-made sofas offers more choice in materials, sizes and configurations without any assembly work.
Q: What maintenance does this type of patio furniture need?
A: Periodically reapply protective sealants, ensure cushions are stored away when not in use, and keep storage compartments clean and organized inside. Some disassembly may be required in winter or to facilitate deep cleaning.