Everything You Should Know Before Buying Martha Stewart Patio Furniture

Martha Stewart is no stranger to the world of home decorating or putting her name on a variety of products. In fact, Stewart recently partnered with outdoor furniture makers to release a collection of outdoor patio furniture. Whether you're decorating the patio to revamp your space or perfect the right shape for your backyard, the patio furniture collection contains many options from cushioned conversation sets to dining tables made from heavy-duty steel frames. According to some reviews, however, the pieces may not be as high quality as they look. 

Beyond the quality of the patio pieces you may be considering, there are a number of things to keep in mind when you're looking to spruce up your outdoor patio. Are you going for a more contemporary feel? Or is your style more closely aligned with the wicker material that's typically found in more traditional patio furniture? It's also important to consider how many people may be using the furniture. Would a couple of club chairs with a small table in the middle suffice? Or would a larger sectional or full patio set be better?

When it comes to deciding on a patio furniture set, there are a few factors to consider including the purpose of your furniture and who will be using it. Are you looking for a place to enjoy an outdoor meal with your family? Or are you planning on using the pieces for lounging? For a two-person family looking to lounge in the fresh air, a minimalistic set like Stewart's Sunnyside Daybed ($644) can quickly transform from a couch to a bed. If you plan on chatting with a few loved ones over snacks and drinks, something like the 5-Piece Conversation Set ($911) will allow you to gather a small group of friends around a fire table. If you're likely to host five people or more, then a larger set such as Stewart's Viewport Outdoor Wicker Set ($3,330) may do the trick.

You likely already know that the more pieces included in a set, the pricier. For example, a two-person daybed or loveseat will be the cheapest option for you and your partner, roommate, or friend. For more extensive options, Stewart also released larger patio sets, such as the 6-Piece Conversation Set in Orange and Grey ($3,933). Additionally, Stewart sells individual pieces that can be accumulated over time. Start with a table and two chairs, add a few more, and see where things take you.

Like most of our home design purchases, there are a few pros and cons that should be considered before pulling the trigger on anything from Martha Stewart's patio collection. Many reviews described Stewart's smaller furniture sets as comfortable, easy to move, and great for filling up a small space. Others described it as "great quality" and "good construction," with cushions that are "thick and comfy too." While many are impressed by the outdoor furniture line, there are just as many who report issues with quality and durability.

For customers who chose these sets for their comparatively low price, the investment was worth the money but lacked the soft cushioning of high-end furniture. Additionally, many complained about the fact that the furniture will not last longer than a season or two. As one customer stated, "I have had them outside this summer, and only half of last summer. All the cushions are falling apart, tearing and stuffing coming out." What's more, is that many customers found their glass-based products shattering out of the blue and reported a quality issue. Ultimately, the consensus was clear: Stewart's furniture sets have great designs and price points but lack the overt quality and comfort that's expected with outdoor furniture.