Fabric Sun Loungers Are Out: The Stylish Design Everyone’s Choosing for Their Terrace This Summer

On terraces, a detail often betrays the bygone days of sunshine: the fabric sunlounger that sags, faded, the canvas loosened after a summer. Many folding, lightweight, and affordable models lose their line in this way. This summer, another type of sun lounger draws the eye, with a sculptural silhouette in wood and rope, boasting a very graphic style.

The outdoor design trend is shifting toward pieces that are more durable, conceived as real furniture rather than disposable accessories. The idea is simple: clean lines, noble materials that withstand sun and humidity. In this movement, the fabric-free sunlounger in solid wood and a technical weave is gaining ground, both on urban terraces and in more traditional gardens.

Why the fabric sunlounger is waning on the terrace

Canvas deck chairs and full-fabric sun loungers have a known vulnerability: the fabric loosens after a few weeks of blazing sun and showers. The fabric marks, deforms, and the taut line from the initial days quickly disappears. The seat then looks worn even though it has only served one season, which pushes more and more people toward sturdier seating.

Outdoor furniture brands are following this shift by betting on thicker wood and metal frames capable of withstanding sun and weather. Teak wood, already very present for outdoor tables, is asserting itself for sun loungers. Paired with a resistant synthetic cord, it offers a solid alternative to classic fabric and fits perfectly with the slow-deco spirit: fewer objects, but pieces built to last.

The teak and synthetic cord duo, the new designer sunlounger

The teak wood of the Chad model edited by SKLUM illustrates this evolution well. Its structure receives a water-based treatment and a natural matte finish that protect the surface while maintaining a chic raw look. The product sheet lists a depth of 200 cm and a width of 71 cm, a maximum load of 110 kg, and a weight of 23.86 kg, a guarantee of stability without being impossible to move.

Another strong signature of the teak and synthetic cord sunlounger: the seat and back in cord weaving. On the Chad, this mesh forms a surface that is slightly perforated, very contemporary. Air circulates, heat dissipates faster than with a solid fabric, making the lounger more comfortable during scorching afternoons. The seat keeps its shape while remaining supple to embrace the body.

Chad Sunlounger by SKLUM: the terrace’s star model

Designed to accompany all moments of the day, the Chad sunlounger features a backrest adjustable in five positions. Four levels of incline help to find the ideal angle for reading in the shade or chatting, before transitioning to a fully reclined position for a nap. These adjustments transform this sun lounger into a true outdoor chaise longue, not merely an extra seat around the pool.

The attention to detail reinforces this sense of a high-end piece. The raised cylindrical feet improve ventilation beneath the seat and drainage, while horizontal braces stabilize the structure and plastic caps protect the terrace floor. Priced at €499.95, this designer sunlounger presents itself as a durable decorative investment rather than a seasonal accessory purchase.

James Whitaker

I’m James Whitaker, a UK-based journalist focused on emerging trends and everyday stories gaining attention across the country. I cover the topics people start talking about before they fully break into the mainstream. My work aims to stay clear, factual, and closely connected to how news is actually consumed today.