Review: I tried the £225 Casima four-seater garden furniture set - here's what I loved and what I didn't

With all the recent heatwaves - and apparently there’s another one coming before summer is over - I have found I have wanted to be outside in my garden more than ever before. That meant I needed somewhere comfortable to sit.

The Casima Matt Grey Metal 4 Seater Coffee Set appealed to me as soon as I saw it. It combines a two-seater sofa, two armchairs and a coffee table, giving you everything you need to create a dedicated spot for sitting relaxing or socialising, whether you’re enjoying a morning cup of tea, dining alfresco or entertaining friends.

The contemporary grey finish and chevron-style tabletop means it looks sleek and modern, and although it is purpose-made for a garden it’s still a super stylish set and proves that high end furnishings don’t have to be for just inside.

But, there’s also plenty of substance. The curved seating cusions are designed with comfort in mind. I was also drawn to it because I have a smaller patio area, but with this I could still get four seats without having to try to accomodate a large dining set.

So, at £225 from B&Q, has it been useful in the way I hoped after a few weeks of use?

What I like about this Casima garden furniture set

The biggest attraction of the Casima Matt Grey Metal 4 Seater Coffee Set is the combination of practicality and style.

You get two armchairs and a two-seater sofa, meaning there is plenty of room for four people to sit together, while the coffee table provides somewhere to put drinks, snacks, books or anything else you want to keep close by. I think the £225 price tag is superb for all that’s included, but the cheaper price doesn’t mean a compromise on quality. This is a very well-made sturdy set.

I really like the fact that this isn't simply functional garden furniture. The grey powder-coated steel gives it a contemporary look, while the decorative chevron pattern on the table adds a little extra character.

The curved design of the seating is another welcome feature. Garden furniture can sometimes look pretty but then be uncomfortable, especially after you’ve been sat there for a while, but this set has been designed with an ergonomic shape to provide support while you're sitting. I’ve sat on it several times now for several hours, and so have a few guests, and everyone has commented on how comfy it is.

The cushions are included too, which makes a significant difference to the overall comfort. The polyester covers are removable, so they can be taken off for easier cleaning and washing, which is particularly useful when furniture is being used outside.

I also think the table size is well judged. At 85cm long and 50cm wide, it's large enough for drinks and nibbles without dominating the seating area. This also makes it easy to pick up and move if needed. The managable weight of the tables and the seating also makes for easy maneuverability.

What I don't like about this Casima garden furniture set

The main drawback is that assembly is required. I admit, when the box first arrived and I took everything out I felt overwhelmed and wondered how on earth I was going to do it as I’m something on a DIY and flatpack furniture novice.

But, luckily I had some help and once we got going we found it was more straightforward than we thought to put everything together. That said, it did take a couple of hours, so make sure you have plenty of time to get the Casima Matt Grey Metal 4 Seater Coffee Set set up.

This wouldn’t put me off buying, particularly as a lot of furniture now comes in this build it yourself way, but it is something to factor in when ordering. It is also worth noting that someone with more experience than me, and quite honestly more strength, may be able to get it all together much quicker. Plus, everything you need to build the set comes included.

I'd also recommend thinking about where you'll store the cushions when the furniture isn't being used. Although the removable covers make them easier to wash, garden cushions are still going to fare better if they're protected from prolonged exposure to rain and poor weather. I’m yet to find somewhere to keep my cushions long-term and at the moment they are stacked up in a corner of my kitchen/diner when not in use.

The set also has a two-year manufacturer's guarantee, which provides some reassurance too.

My Verdict

The Casima Matt Grey Metal 4 Seater Coffee Set is a good choice if you want to create a comfortable social space in the garden without spending a fortune.

For £225, you get a two-seater sofa, two armchairs and a coffee table, along with cushions, so you get everything you need for a complete outdoor set-up. The contemporary grey finish and chevron table design give it an attractive appearance, while the curved seating and padded cushions make it suitable for settling down for longer periods.

I particularly like that it feels more like an outdoor living room set than traditional garden furniture. Assembly is the main thing I'd prepare for, but once you've got past that, the combination of comfort, style and size makes this set very good value for money.

• Please note that delivery charges may apply.