When it comes to curating an outdoor space that exudes luxury, elegance, and enduring performance, the choice of materials is paramount.
Outdoor furniture must withstand Australia’s unpredictable and sometimes harsh weather conditions—searing sun, sea air, rain, wind, and fluctuating temperatures—without sacrificing style. For the discerning homeowner, selecting the right materials is more than a matter of taste; it’s a commitment to quality, aesthetics, and long-term value.
This guide explores the best luxury materials for outdoor furniture. It will equip you with the knowledge to invest in furnishings that look magnificent, perform exceptionally, and transform your outdoor living space into a retreat of enduring sophistication. All products and examples referenced are available at The Exclusive Home, where only the finest materials are chosen.
1. Teak – The Timeless Luxury Timber
Why Teak?
Teak is the undisputed king of outdoor furniture woods. Originating from Southeast Asia and prized for centuries in shipbuilding and fine furniture making, teak is rich in natural oils that make it incredibly water-resistant, insect-repellent, and decay-resistant.
Characteristics:
- Golden brown tones that age to a silvery-grey patina.
- Withstands humidity, salt air, and UV exposure.
- Requires little maintenance but can be oiled for colour retention.
Ideal For:
- Dining tables, lounge frames, accent stools, and benches.
At The Exclusive Home, our teak outdoor furniture collections are sourced responsibly and kiln-dried to ensure premium durability and finish. Each piece is built not just to last but to become more beautiful with time.
2. Aluminium – Modern, Strong, and Corrosion-Free
Why Aluminium?
Powder-coated aluminium has become a staple in luxury outdoor furniture thanks to its modern aesthetic and resistance to corrosion, especially in coastal environments.
Characteristics:
- Lightweight yet strong.
- Rust-proof and easy to move.
- Can be coated in endless matte or gloss finishes.
Ideal For:
- Outdoor lounge frames, dining chairs, coffee tables, sunloungers.
The Exclusive Home’s aluminium outdoor furniture ranges feature thick-gauge, powder-coated finishes in refined tones that echo luxury coastal and urban styling. They combine clean lines with comfort and weather resistance.
3. Stainless Steel – Sleek and Durable
Why Stainless Steel?
Grade 304 or 316 stainless steel is a premium option, particularly in marine environments. With polished or brushed finishes, it delivers modernity and exceptional performance.
Characteristics:
- Highly rust-resistant (especially 316 marine grade).
- Dense, heavy, and secure in windy areas.
- Sleek metallic sheen adds a modern accent.
Ideal For:
- Lounges, coffee tables, and mixed-material dining settings.
The Exclusive Home uses stainless steel sparingly and tastefully, often in combination with timber or ceramic for contrast and sophistication.
4. Woven Synthetic Rattan – Natural Look, Modern Performance
Why Woven Rattan?
Modern synthetic wicker, often made from polyethylene (PE) or resin, replicates the look of natural rattan while being UV-stable, waterproof, and mould-resistant.
Characteristics:
- Available in hand-woven finishes with thick gauge fibres.
- Fade-resistant, even in full sun.
- Low-maintenance and easy to clean.
Ideal For:
- Daybeds, armchairs, bar stools, hanging chairs.
At The Exclusive Home, each woven outdoor furniture piece is crafted by artisans using the highest quality HDPE (high-density polyethylene) rattan over rustproof aluminium frames.
5. Ceramic and Sintered Stone Tabletops – Practical Luxury
Why Ceramic or Sintered Stone?
These modern surfaces offer incredible durability and a sophisticated stone-like appearance, without the porosity or maintenance needs of natural stone.
Characteristics:
- Scratch, stain, and heat-resistant.
- Doesn’t fade or warp.
- Comes in marble, slate, and cement-look finishes.
Ideal For:
- Dining tables, coffee tables, console tables.
Our ceramic-top dining settings at The Exclusive Home provide the perfect blend of practicality and high-end design, resistant to the rigours of outdoor use while maintaining a luxe finish.
6. Outdoor Fabrics – The Unsung Hero
Why High-Performance Fabrics Matter?
Your cushions and upholstered pieces are only as good as the fabric that wraps them. Cheap outdoor fabrics can fade, mildew, or degrade within a season. At The Exclusive Home, we use only solution-dyed acrylics or polyesters that are designed for life outdoors.
Characteristics:
- UV-resistant, water-repellent, and breathable.
- Resistant to stains, mould, and fading.
- Available in endless textures, colours, and patterns.
Ideal For:
- Sofas, armchairs, daybeds, ottomans, and scatter cushions.
Our fabrics—many inspired by international design houses—ensure long-lasting beauty and comfort. Customisation is also available with hundreds of fabric options to match your style.
7. Glass – Modern Simplicity, Strategic Use
Why Glass?
Tempered glass remains a staple in some outdoor settings, particularly for side tables or bar areas. Used strategically, it can provide a sleek, reflective surface that pairs well with metal or woven frames.
Characteristics:
- Heat and impact-resistant.
- Easy to clean.
- May show smudges more easily.
Ideal For:
- Coffee tables, bar carts, dining table accents.
At The Exclusive Home, we limit our use of glass to where it makes aesthetic sense and always opt for tempered safety glass in our designs.
8. Quick-Dry Foam – Cushioning That Breathes
Why Foam Selection Matters?
Beneath luxury outdoor upholstery lies the foundation of comfort: foam. Quick-dry or reticulated foam allows water to pass through quickly, preventing mildew and odour.
Characteristics:
- Open-cell structure for ventilation.
- Dries rapidly even after heavy rain.
- Retains shape and bounce.
Ideal For:
- Lounge seats, sunlounger pads, deep cushions.
Every cushion at The Exclusive Home is built with quick-dry technology for the ultimate in all-weather luxury.
9. The Danger of Inferior Alternatives
Many retailers cut corners on material quality—especially those masquerading as “Australian” suppliers but importing inferior stock. Watch for:
- Thin gauge aluminium prone to bending.
- Fabric that fades within a single season.
- Faux teak that chips or peels.
- Poor quality foam that retains water and sags.
At The Exclusive Home, we proudly stand against mass-produced mediocrity. Our materials are tested for quality, built to last, and often come with extended warranties.
10. Customisation: The Ultimate Material Advantage
No two homes are alike—and your outdoor furniture should reflect that. The ability to customise materials gives homeowners a unique edge.
- Choose your fabric, finish, and frame colour.
- Tailor furniture sizes to fit your deck, courtyard, or garden.
- Select materials that reflect your climate needs—coastal, inland, tropical.
The Exclusive Home offers a level of customisation that mass-market suppliers simply can’t match.
11. Caring for Luxury Outdoor Materials
The right materials are easy to maintain with a few best practices:
- Teak: Clean with mild soap and water. Oil if you wish to maintain golden colour.
- Aluminium: Wipe down with water and avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Fabrics: Spot clean with warm soapy water. Remove cushions in extreme weather.
- Ceramic: Wipe with a damp cloth—no sealing required.
Full care guides are available from The Exclusive Home for all products and materials.
12. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Luxury shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. At The Exclusive Home, we prioritise:
- FSC-certified teak.
- Aluminium and synthetic rattan that is recyclable.
- Partnerships with ethical workshops and artisan communities.
We believe sustainable living and elegant design should go hand in hand.
13. Pairing Materials for Elevated Aesthetics
The most elegant outdoor spaces often mix materials artfully:
- Teak + white aluminium = Coastal chic.
- Charcoal rattan + ceramic = Contemporary resort.
- Brushed steel + slate = Industrial luxury.
The Exclusive Home’s curated collections are designed with these aesthetic combinations in mind.
14. What to Look For in a Trusted Supplier
When evaluating suppliers, ensure they:
- Provide transparent sourcing and material specifications.
- Offer genuine warranties on materials.
- Allow customisation and colour options.
- Provide customer reviews and real photos.
- Have a physical or online presence in Australia.
The Exclusive Home ticks every box—offering peace of mind with every purchase.
15. Final Thoughts: Investing in Timeless Outdoor Quality
The best outdoor furniture doesn’t just survive the elements—it elevates them. Whether you’re furnishing a sprawling terrace, a compact balcony, or a poolside paradise, the materials you choose will define your outdoor living experience for years to come.
Choosing quality is not just an investment in your home—it’s an investment in your comfort, your style, and your everyday joy.
For premium, Australian-ready outdoor furniture built from the best materials in the world, explore the full range at The Exclusive Home.
