Ask the Customer Service: “What kind of patio furniture should I choose for my summer cottage in the archipelago?”

When there are four seasons, one of which you wish would last half a year, it's wise to be early with your garden and patio purchases. Summer feels significantly longer when the outdoor furniture is ready right from the warm day!

An illustration where a character is working in the garden
Island-friendly garden furniture can withstand changing weather conditions as well as salty sea air. A good option for the archipelago is HAY's steel Palissade collection which stands firmly in place even in the harshest weather conditions.

SUMMER PLANNING for the terrace and garden is already in full bloom in the north, even though the winter can sometimes surprise us. You can never buy garden furniture too early, whether you're dreaming of a classic or this summer's fresh novelty. When choosing outdoor furniture, one of the most important things to consider is its suitability for your own summer oasis, so that you will have countless summers together.

This Design Stories column provides answers to some recurring questions from our customers, which may be helpful and inspirational to others, as well. We have recruited Miina Lindblad from Finnish Design Shop’s customer service team to answer your conundrums.


1. What kind of patio furniture should I choose for my summer cottage in the archipelago?

“The patio and garden furniture best suited to an archipelago environment can withstand not only the rapidly changing weather conditions but also the salty sea air. Teak is probably one of the best materials. Galvanized steel is also a good choice if you are worried about regular maintenance of wooden furniture.

Carl Hansen & Son's outdoor furniture is made from responsibly produced teak. The joints of the furniture are also mainly made of wood and any screws are stainless steel. The AH Outdoor furniture is available with upholstery that has been treated to withstand scorching sun and humid conditions without fading. The summer is just one click away!”

All patio furniture >


2. I'm looking for self-watering plant pots for my balcony, any tips?

Squarely Copenhagen's self-watering flower pots are a delightful addition to our comprehensive collection of planters and plant pots. Made from recycled wood, the stylish pots include water tanks to nourish your plants throughout your long summer getaways.

Upgrade your bigger green friends with a more spacious pot and add convenience with the wheels underneath. For those who love vertical gardening, flower pots featuring elegant leather straps are perfect for adorning your balcony or wall. With these, your holidays couldn't be more carefree!”

All plant pots >


3. Is it possible to disassemble the Fatboy Headdemock for storage?

“Yes, Fatboy's Headdemock is easy to disassemble for storage or transport – and just as easy to assemble for use, of course! When assembled, the Headdemock hammock is incredibly sturdy and can take up to 150 kilograms of love. The modern hammock comes in five parts, so it's easy to move and transport from home to the cottage in a car, for example.

Remember to protect your hammock from summer rain with a separate cover. During the winter, we recommend storing your Headdemock indoors.”

All products by Fatboy >


Miina Lindblad

Miina Lindblad works as a design sales representative in Finnish Design Shop’s Customer Service team. She is currently renovating an almost hundred-year-old house, and the interior seamlessly combines the new and the old. In the summertime, Miina, who enjoys working in the garden, is often found among the flower beds or by the vegetable patch.


For help with your design purchases:

Finnish Design Shop’s Customer Service >

Text: Miina Lindblad Illustration: Evi Rinkinen

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