Difference Between Interior and Exterior Furniture
That’s because interior and exterior furniture are designed with completely different purposes, materials, and styles in mind. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right pieces for your home, office, or outdoor area—and ensure they last for years.
Purpose and Function
Interior Furniture
Indoor furniture is primarily designed for comfort, style, and aesthetics. It’s meant to match your interior décor, reflect your personality, and provide a cozy environment. Functionality is important, but indoor pieces don’t have to withstand extreme weather or environmental changes.
Exterior Furniture
Outdoor furniture, on the other hand, must handle exposure to the elements—sun, rain, wind, humidity, and even snow, depending on your location. While style still matters, durability and weather resistance are the main priorities.
Materials Used
Indoor Furniture Materials
- Wood (oak, maple, walnut, mahogany) for tables, chairs, and cabinets.
- Upholstery fabrics like cotton, linen, velvet, or leather.
- Glass, MDF, or engineered wood for shelving and decorative pieces.
These materials create a warm, refined look but may warp, fade, or deteriorate quickly if exposed to outdoor conditions.
Outdoor Furniture Materials
- Teak, cedar, or eucalyptus wood—naturally resistant to moisture and insects.
- Metal such as aluminum or powder-coated steel—rust-resistant and sturdy.
- Synthetic rattan, wicker, or resin—durable and low-maintenance.
- Weather-resistant fabrics like solution-dyed acrylic or polyester—fade-resistant and water-repellent.
Outdoor materials are chosen specifically for longevity in harsh conditions.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Indoor Furniture
Durability depends on quality, but indoor furniture isn’t made to withstand constant moisture, UV rays, or temperature changes. A leather sofa may last decades indoors but could crack within months if left outside.
Outdoor Furniture
Every component is made to fight sun damage, mold, rust, and warping. For example, powder-coated aluminum frames resist rust, and UV-treated fabrics prevent fading. This extra durability makes outdoor furniture ideal for patios, balconies, gardens, and poolside areas.
Design and Style Differences
Indoor Furniture Style
- Focuses on matching room themes, wall colors, and home décor.
- Comes in a wide variety of intricate designs, colors, and textures.
- Prioritizes elegance, comfort, and harmony with other furnishings.
Outdoor Furniture Style
- Simpler, more minimalistic designs for easy maintenance.
- Earthy or neutral tones to blend with natural surroundings.
- Often modular or lightweight for mobility and storage during off-seasons.
Comfort Level
Indoor Furniture
Since it’s sheltered from the elements, indoor furniture can have plusher cushions, delicate fabrics, and intricate upholstery without risk of damage.
Outdoor Furniture
Comfort is important but must be balanced with durability. Cushions are usually removable and covered with weather-resistant fabrics. Padding is thinner to dry quickly, and frames are designed to withstand movement and exposure.
Maintenance Needs
Indoor Furniture Maintenance
- Regular dusting and occasional polishing.
- Fabric cleaning or vacuuming.
- No need for special protective coatings.
Outdoor Furniture Maintenance
- Seasonal cleaning to remove dirt, pollen, and mold.
- Application of protective oils or sealants (for wood).
- Storage during extreme weather or use of protective covers.
Cost Differences
While both indoor and outdoor furniture vary widely in price depending on brand and materials, outdoor furniture often costs more for the same size and type due to the special treatments and materials used to withstand weather.
Can You Use Them Interchangeably?
Technically, yes—but with caution.
- Outdoor furniture indoors: Works well in rustic or casual interiors, especially with rattan or wood pieces.
- Indoor furniture outdoors: Not recommended unless it’s a covered and climate-controlled space like a sunroom.