How to Create a Resort-Style Backyard with Luxury Patio Furniture

For many homeowners, the backyard is more than just a patch of grass — it’s an extension of the home. Establishing a resort-style backyard allows for a private retreat for relaxation, entertainment, and escape. Indeed, research indicates that spending time in nature can lower stress and enhance mental well-being (Harvard Health Publishing, 2021). Decorate your backyard with some of the most beautiful and functional pieces of luxury patio furniture, making the ultimate retreat in your own home!

In this guide, we’ll show you how to create this elevated space, step by step, from selecting the right furniture to finishing the details. From the local Philadelphia suburbs to the Jersey Shore and beyond, Tropicraft has the right furniture for the right destination.

Step 1: Visualize Your Resort-Inspired Layout

Before you visit the furniture store, think about dreaming up that perfect space. A resort-style backyard, which is well designed, may contain:

• A lounging zone with chaise lounges or daybeds

• An outdoor dining area for meals and drinks with friends

• A fire feature for warmth and ambiance

• Shaded retreats with umbrellas, pergolas, or cabanas

• Lush landscaping and accessories that complete the look

Take a walk through your patch of dirt and note which spots are sunniest and shadiest, what seems like a natural focal point in the garden, and what views you’d like to expose or hide from. If you’re not sure where to begin, Tropicraft offers customized consultations to help make your dream a reality.

Step 2: Choose Durable, Stylish Furniture Materials

Luxury patio furniture isn't just about aesthetics—it needs to withstand the elements without compromising comfort or quality. At Tropicraft Patio Furniture, materials are carefully selected for durability and style:

➤ Teak

Known for its natural resistance to water and pests, teak is a timeless material perfect for both dining and lounging. With minimal maintenance, it gracefully weathers to a silvery gray.

➤ Aluminum

Rust-resistant and lightweight, powder-coated aluminum is ideal for modern, sleek designs. It offers strength without bulk and is available in countless colors and finishes.

➤ Resin Wicker

A popular choice for its cozy texture and weatherproof construction. Tropicraft carries high-performance resin wicker from top brands like Lane Venture and North Cape.

➤ Poly Lumber

Made from recycled plastics, this eco-friendly option mimics the look of wood while being resistant to fading, cracking, and insects.

➤ Sling Fabric

Breathable and low-maintenance, sling seating is convenient for poolside areas or humid climates.

Every material has its pros and cons, so speak with a Tropicraft specialist to choose what’s best for your climate and lifestyle.

Step 3: Layer in Comfort with Cushions and Fabrics

No resort is complete without plush seating, and that's where custom cushions come in. Tropicraft offers hundreds of fabric options from performance brands like Sunbrella®.

Look for:

• UV-resistant and fade-resistant fabrics

• Quick-drying foam cores

• Patterns and textures that complement your home’s architecture

For a cohesive look, consider sticking to a three-color palette: a dominant neutral, a secondary accent (like ocean blue or sage green), and a bold pop (such as coral or yellow).

Step 4: Create Separate Zones for Different Activities

A true resort has dedicated areas for lounging, dining, and gathering—and your backyard should too. Divide your outdoor space into purposeful zones using furniture placement, rugs, planters, or lighting.

Ideas for Layouts:

• Conversation Corner Add a modular sectional or a set of deep-seating chairs with a central fire pit or coffee table.

• Al Fresco Dining Include a large table with cushioned chairs or benches. Aluminum and teak are ideal here for their sturdiness and weather resistance.

• Poolside Retreat Line up chaise lounges under umbrellas or a pergola. Add side tables for drinks and storage baskets for towels.

Tropicraft’s 20,000-square-foot Ardmore showroom offers plenty of inspiration to visualize different configurations and styles.

Step 5: Incorporate Fire and Water Elements

Resort-style outdoor living isn’t just about furniture—it's about atmosphere. Fire pits and water features instantly elevate the mood.

Fire Features:

Choose from gas fire tables, traditional wood-burning pits, or fire columns for a dramatic effect. Tropicraft stocks options in aluminum, stone, and cast materials that integrate seamlessly with your furniture.

Water Features:

Even a small fountain or cascading wall can create a soothing, spa-like ambiance. Position water elements near lounging areas for maximum impact.

According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, water features can increase property value while enhancing sensory appeal.

Step 6: Add Shade and Privacy

Protection from the sun is crucial—not just for comfort, but for preserving your investment. At Tropicraft, you'll find umbrellas, cabanas, and custom shade solutions that match your design.

Popular Options:

• Cantilever umbrellas: Freestanding, versatile, and adjustable

• Pergolas: Permanent structures that can support lighting, fans, or curtains

• Privacy panels: Made from outdoor-rated fabrics or materials like teak and rattan

These elements also help frame your zones and increase usability throughout the day.

Step 7: Accessorize for the Finishing Touch

Accessories are the secret sauce to a resort-style backyard. They personalize the space, add texture, and create that “boutique hotel” feeling.

Don’t Forget:

• Outdoor rugs to define space and add color

• Lanterns, LED lighting, or string lights for ambiance

• Planters with tropical foliage or seasonal blooms

• Throw pillows in vibrant patterns

• Storage benches for cushions and gear

Visit the Wicker & Rattan Outlet at Tropicraft for discounted indoor and outdoor accessories that work seamlessly in transitional spaces like sunrooms or screened patios.

Why Shop at Tropicraft?

Unlike big-box retailers, Tropicraft is a local, family-owned business with over 30 years of expertise in luxury outdoor furniture. Here’s what sets them apart:

• Massive in-stock selection across multiple styles and brands

• Custom design services to tailor the look to your lifestyle

• Free parking and easy showroom access in historic Ardmore, PA

• Flexible financing with 0% interest

• Indoor and outdoor rattan outlet for additional savings

Located just minutes from Philadelphia’s Main Line, Tropicraft helps Greater Philadelphia homeowners create sophisticated backyard escapes—without needing a plane ticket.

Your Backyard, Your Personal Resort

Designing a How to Create a Resort-Style Backyard isn’t about duplicating a hotel — it’s about fashioning your outdoor area into an alfresco, personalized getaway that caters to your lifestyle. Whether you enjoy hosting dinner parties under the stars or enjoying quiet moments with a cup of coffee poolside, your patio furniture should embody your lifestyle with approachable elegance and ease.

At Tropicraft Patio Furniture, you’ll find high-quality, elegant design and personal attention, the way shopping should be.

Ready to Redesign Your Backyard?

Visit us to browse furniture collections, schedule a showroom appointment, or speak with a design consultant today. Your resort-style retreat is just a few steps away.