As the days start getting longer and the first signs of spring appear, many people begin thinking about their garden again.
Some of the first questions we often hear in our garden centres are about garden furniture. What styles are popular this year? What materials last the longest? And what will still look good a few summers from now?
Excitingly, the new collections for 2026 have started arriving at Kings Garden & Leisure, and a few clear trends are already emerging.
As we know, gardens are increasingly being used as an extension of the home — somewhere to relax, entertain and spend time outdoors — and the furniture people are choosing reflects that.
Here are some of the garden furniture trends we’re seeing this year.
Deep, Comfortable Seating
One of the biggest shifts in recent years is the move towards sofa-style garden furniture like the Hartman Sahara Lounge Set.
Rather than upright dining chairs, many people are choosing garden lounge sofa sets with deep cushions that are designed for relaxing. These sets create a more informal seating area, perfect for long evenings outside with friends or family.
For larger patios or decking areas, corner sofa garden furniture has become especially popular, creating a comfortable outdoor lounge space that feels much more like an extension of the home.
Lighter, Contemporary Frames
For many years rattan dominated garden furniture design.
While it remains a popular option, we’re seeing a growing interest in aluminium garden furniture. Aluminium frames offer a cleaner, more contemporary look and require very little maintenance.
They are lightweight, durable and resistant to rust, which makes them particularly practical for outdoor spaces that experience a mix of sunshine and rain throughout the year.
This combination of style and practicality has made aluminium one of the standout materials in the latest collections.
Furniture That Works for Smaller Gardens
Not every outdoor space needs a large seating set.
Many people are looking for furniture that works well in smaller gardens, patios or terraces, which is why bistro garden furniture continues to be so popular.
A simple bistro table and chairs can instantly create a cosy spot for morning coffee or a relaxed drink in the evening, without taking up too much space.
Compact seating sets are also ideal for courtyards or smaller gardens where you want to create a comfortable seating area without overwhelming the space.
Softer Colours and Natural Tones
Another trend we’re noticing is a shift towards softer, more natural colour palettes.
Instead of darker tones, many of the new designs feature colours such as warm greys, subtle neutrals and natural fabrics.
These tones work beautifully alongside planting and paving, helping the furniture blend naturally into the garden.
Many of the latest pieces arriving in our new garden furniture for 2026 follow this softer palette, making it easier to create an outdoor space that feels calm and cohesive.
Outdoor Living is Here to Stay (for as long as the weather allows!)
Perhaps the biggest trend of all is the way people now think about their gardens.
Outdoor spaces are increasingly being designed as somewhere to relax and spend time, rather than simply somewhere to sit occasionally.
Comfortable seating, thoughtful layouts and durable materials are becoming much more important when choosing furniture.
It’s less about filling the space and more about creating somewhere you genuinely enjoy spending time.
Explore the New Garden Furniture Collections
As the latest garden furniture collections are now arriving at Kings Garden & Leisure, many of the sets are on display in our showrooms in Exmouth and Sidmouth, where you can sit down and see how they feel before choosing.
If you can't make it to us, and would like to explore the range, you can browse and shop our garden furniture collection online for delivery to your door.
And if you are still deliberating, take a look at our garden furniture buying guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garden Furniture
What is the most durable garden furniture material?
Aluminium garden furniture is widely considered one of the most durable options because it is rust-resistant, lightweight and requires very little maintenance.
Is aluminium garden furniture better than rattan?
Both materials have advantages. Aluminium offers a more modern look and is easier to maintain, while rattan provides a traditional woven style that many people love.
What garden furniture works best for smaller gardens?
Compact furniture such as bistro sets or small seating sets works well in smaller outdoor spaces, allowing you to create a comfortable seating area without taking up too much room.