Solid wood such as teak is a perennial favourite for outdoor furniture, but environmental considerations are prompting designers and manufacturers to look for eco-friendly materials, especially those that can face up to the Hong Kong climate.
Traditionally, teak is considered the best wood for outside use because of its ability to weather harsh climatic conditions such as strong ultraviolet rays and heavy rain. But teak, like all timber, requires maintenance. Suppliers and consumers are therefore increasingly drawn to materials that can be left to the elements without having to be maintained.
Furniture outlets in Horizon Plaza in Ap Lei Chau offer several solutions to the outdoor furniture challenge.
Resource Asia specialises in outdoor furniture obtained mostly from the United States, Europe and Australia. Alan Chiu, general manager sales and marketing, said resin wicker was a good alternative because it required virtually no maintenance, and food and beverage spills could simply be wiped off with a cloth.
Another advantage is that resin comes in a solid slat form that can be cut to size. Teak, on the other hand, is restricted to the size of the tree it is cut from.
'The best weather-proof material for outdoor furniture is woven-type resin and aluminium,' Mr Chiu said.
