Hope Garden Furniture: To paint or not to paint…

In 2022, Cape Town-based Hope Garden Furniture carefully packed a container full of their loveliest pieces and wished it a bon voyage as it embarked on a journey halfway across the world. Its final destination was Kaselholm, a 17th-century Swedish Estate. Owned by the Silverwhite Collective, the property is both a working farm and a creative collective.

“We had packed a medley of colours into the container and sent it on its sea voyage. From the photos we received, it was evident that the chosen colours integrated seamlessly into the verdant Swedish landscape,” says Hope Garden Furniture.

And while Swedish castles may be in short supply of the company’s painted furniture, there is plenty. Their traditional range is available in five colour options: French Grey, Swedish Red, Yellow, Building Blue and Pond Green. For each of these pieces, the frames are first hot dipped galvanised, then primed and hand painted with two layers of oil-based paint.

“From this collection, we recommend the painted chairs and metal top cafe´ tables – it’s a classic set, reminiscent of street cafes and double espressos. Plus, the folding chairs are ideal for small spaces, balconies or a nook in the kitchen.”

The great thing about the painted furniture is that customers can be unapologetically fickle and change colour with each repaint. In addition, painting wood, if kept in good condition, is the best protection for wood, allowing for many years of usage.

However, there are some cons, says Hope Garden Furniture: “Painted frames are inadvisable at the sea due to accumulating salt deposit, making re-painting difficult and costly. For this reason, we recommend the galvanised frame for coastal homes. Painted slats are less problematic at coastal homes. Painted slats need a touch-up every few years.”

And, whether you’re country or seaside, the company recommends proper maintenance to ensure each customer gets the most from their purchase. “Don’t allow painted wood to deteriorate,” says Garden Hope Furniture. “Our range of products is intended to allow for customer DIY. Repainting by a skilled painter is all you need, but failing this, our maintenance service will return your furniture like new. Contact us during the winter months, when production is quieter.”

For more information about their products and services, including available colours and custom finishes, visit their website.