Top News

Mid-century-inspired garden furniture seems to be having a bit of a moment right now. Over the last couple of years, Danish design brand Hay's metal tables and chairs have really set the tone with their sleek designs in various colours. This year, I've noticed retro influence elsewhere. It's still that similar mid-century look, but it's been reworked into something much more comfortable and inviting. And the good news is, it doesn't have to break the bank.

Lately, I've noticed garden chairs that feel like a nod to the classic Barcelona style from the 1920s - those low, curved shapes that look as good as they feel to sit in. From Dunelm to Habitat, there are plenty of options with that same gently reclined silhouette that practically invites you to slow down with an iced coffee or a good book. Even better, many now come with proper cushions, which make them feel much more livable.

The ones that have really caught my eye, though, are the more affordable takes on the trend. Bistro sets with a similar look can easily top £400, so finding options at £200 or less feels like a bit of a win. They also tend to be compact, which makes them ideal if you're working with a smaller patio, balcony or garden.

Habitat has just dropped a range of new outdoor pieces designed to refresh your space without completely draining your budget.

The set that stood out to me is the Habitat Scoop two-seater metal garden bistro set, in a really gorgeous shade of green. The brand describes the chair as being a nod to "retro love," and you can see that influence straight away. The chairs are slightly reclined with an ergonomic shape, and the curved seats with cushions look like they'll gently support you rather than feel too rigid.

The steel frames are painted in a deep green, while the polyester cushions come in a softer, slightly lighter tone. It's the kind of green that blends nicely into a garden setting without disappearing completely.

The set also includes a neat round steel table (40 x 48cm), which feels just right for the basics: drinks, a book, or a few snacks while you sit back.

I spotted a similar curved chair at B&Q in a comparable green shade, and while it has that same retro feel, the price difference is noticeable.

Here, you're getting two chairs and a table for £180. The B&Q option is £140 for a single chair. It is slightly larger (83cm x 96cm compared to Habitat's 78cm x 75cm), so you do get a bit more room. But if you wanted a pair, you'd be at £280 - and that's before adding a table. So overall, the Habitat set works out around £100 cheaper.

I also came across a more neutral set from daals, made from wicker-style chairs with beige cushions in a similar curved design. It's a nice option if you prefer a softer, more natural look, but the price is quite a jump at £459.99 for two chairs and a table. So, if you like the green and aren't set on wicker, that's a saving of £279.99.

This striped two-seater set, available from both Debenhams and Dunelm for £199.99, leans into that same retro feel but with a slightly more playful design.

The chairs have a similar curved shape, topped with filled striped cushions that make them feel instantly inviting. It's easy to imagine settling in with a book or a glass of wine and staying there for a while. The frame has that Barcelona chair-style influence (though not exactly the same and without the signature X-frame), but it gives off a similar look overall.

The frame itself is made from green powder-coated steel, which the brand says helps with durability. The cushions are weather-resistant, made from UV-protected Olefin fabric, and are wipe-clean - although it's probably worth following the advice to clean them quickly to avoid staining and store them during winter to keep them looking their best.

Like the Habitat set, it also comes with a small table, handy for keeping everything within easy reach while you enjoy a sunny day outside.

It's available in a choice of green or pink and white stripes, depending on how bold you want to go. And like the Habitat option, it's compact enough to fit neatly into a smaller space, whether that's a balcony, a patio or just a quieter corner of the garden.

READ NEXT:

• Egg chair set drops to lower price at Dusk than M&S and it's perfect for small gardens
• Habitat casserole pot that looks so much like Le Creuset now reduced to £30 on clearance
• 'Luxurious' bedspread gives similar vibe to £230 White Company quilt but is £186 cheaper
• Dunelm's sold-out chandelier gives 'Soho Home vibes' for over £1.5k less - back in stock
• M&S spring fashion range includes 'bargain of the season' - everything I'd buy under £50