Benchmark Wood Classics

Handcrafting bespoke outdoor garden furniture from solid wood since 1995, Mark and Sarah Foale and their team of craftsmen know a thing or two about wood.

Here, they share why solid wooden garden furniture is a great investment.

Appearance

One of the biggest advantages of wood is that it can be shaped into countless styles, from contemporary dining and lounge sets such as Amatola and Franschhoek to more sculptural pieces such as the Edwardian and Circle benches, allowing you to choose pieces that will perfectly fit with your garden’s style.

In addition, the colour and grain of each piece of wood give a unique look to every furniture item.

“It is important to accept that the weathering of the timber, the slight warps and cracks that may occur, and the wear and tear it receives over the years, are an essential part of the furniture developing its patina,” explains the team.

“The different colour tones, patterning and grain are part of the original gift of the tree, reflecting the history of its life, which we will never completely know.”

Range

In addition to many styles (and sizes) in which garden wooden furniture is available, wood can also be used to create a range of furniture pieces, allowing you to create a custom outdoor set-up with tables, chairs, benches, outdoor sofas, daybeds, swing sets and more that all compliment each other beautifully.

Maintenance

Contrary to popular belief, quality wooden outdoor furniture does not require days, weeks and months of maintenance to keep in tip-top shape.

“We chose to specialise in outdoor furniture because it posed a certain challenge: it requires much more complex and robust construction methods than indoor furniture if it is to withstand the harsh natural elements without falling apart,” says Mark.

“Benchmark furniture is designed and made to endure all weather conditions with minimal intervention – though even a small amount of regular care will greatly enhance its resilience and its capacity to withstand even the harshest of environments.”

As such, the team chooses to work mainly with iroko – an African hardwood similar to teak.

They recommend leaving their iroko-wood furniture to weather naturally if fully exposed, simply giving it a gentle wash now and then to remove dirt and marks, or if undercover, to oil it with Osmo UV Protection Oil Extra 420 once every six to 12 months.

www.benchmarkwoodclassics.co.za