Buying a modular lounge set: how to furnish flexibly
A modular lounge set is the most flexible way to furnish your garden or terrace. You choose exactly the elements you need, can adapt the configuration to your space and can expand the set in the future. In this article we explain what modular actually means, what the advantages and points to watch out for are and how to choose the best set for your situation.
What is a modular lounge set?
A modular lounge set consists of separate, mutually combinable elements. Instead of a fixed configuration you buy the building blocks you need and assemble your ideal arrangement yourself. Typical elements are:
- Corner element: The 90-degree element that connects two rows together. The heart of every corner arrangement.
- Rectangular element (armchair or sofa): The straight modules you place next to the corner element for the desired length.
- Ottoman/footstool: A loose footrest that also serves as an extra seating place — versatile and handy.
- Lounge table or side table: Tailored to the seating height of the lounge set.
- Daybed element: In some systems expandable with a lounging element for extra relaxation.
Would you like to know what materials are available? Also read our article on buying rope lounge sets and rope vs. wicker.
Advantages of a modular lounge set
Completely customisable to your space
No two gardens are the same. With a modular set you determine the shape: L-shaped, U-shaped, straight arrangement or something completely original. Do you have an irregularly shaped terrace or a protruding pillar? Then modular is the only way to make optimal use of the space without compromising on comfort.
Expandable in the future
Perhaps your garden starts small but you want to expand in two years' time. Or you expect the family to grow and you need more seating. A modular set grows with you: buy three elements now and add two extra later. This is economically interesting — you invest step by step without having to buy everything at once.
Ideal when moving house
A fixed corner lounge set might fit perfectly in your current garden but be too large or too small for the next home. With loose modules you adapt the arrangement to the new space without having to buy a completely new set. A smart long-term investment for anyone who won't be at the same address forever.
Reconfigurable daily
Expecting large groups? Slide the elements together into a U-shape for maximum seating. Want a more intimate setting for two? Place two modules as a 2-seater in the corner. This flexibility in daily use is an ongoing pleasure that you don't have with a fixed set.
What should you watch out for when purchasing?
Compatibility of elements
Not every element from the same brand fits with every other element. Always check that the height, depth and connection systems of the modules match. Preferably buy an expandable range where all modules come from the same production system for the best fit and finish.
Connection system
How are the modules connected to each other? Quality sets have pins, clamps or channels that hold the elements firmly and discreetly together. Cheap sets simply slide next to each other without connection — this causes problems during use as elements slide apart.
Cushions: standard or per module?
With a modular set, cushions are sometimes universal (same size for each element) or specific to each module. Check whether you can easily order extra cushions if they wear out after years. This is an important service point you should check in advance — not all brands continue to supply old models.
Quality of the frame
A modular set is moved and reconfigured more often than a fixed set. This places higher demands on the connections and the sturdiness of the frame. For modular sets always choose a sturdy aluminium frame with a minimum wall thickness of 2.5 mm. Also check that the legs stand stably in all possible configurations.
Popular configurations
- Starter (3 elements): 1 corner element + 2 straight elements + side table. Fits on a terrace of 200 × 150 cm. Seating for 3–4 people.
- Standard L-shape (5 elements): 1 corner + 4 straight elements + lounge table. Fits on a terrace of 280 × 200 cm. Seating for 5–6 people.
- Extended U-shape (7+ elements): 2 corners + 5+ straight elements. Fits on a terrace of 350 × 280 cm or larger. Seating for 7–10 people.
Check our range of corner lounge sets at Boender Outdoor for all configurations and sizes. Want to see the largest options? Read our top 5 in best corner lounge set 2026.
Price difference: modular vs. fixed sets
Modular sets are typically 10–20% more expensive than comparable fixed sets because loose elements require more precision in production and the flexibility offers added value. In the long run they can actually be cheaper: you only buy what you need and expand bit by bit later, rather than having to buy a complete expensive set straight away.
Price guide for modular lounge sets:
- Budget (steel, wicker): €600–€1,200 for a starter configuration
- Mid-range (aluminium, wicker or rope): €1,200–€2,500 for an L-shaped arrangement
- Premium (heavy aluminium, thick rope): €2,500–€4,000+ for a large U-shaped configuration
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine modules from different ranges?
In most cases no. Modular systems are designed within one range and the dimensions, seating heights and connections are specific to that range. Always combine modules from the same system for the best fit and appearance.
How do I know how many elements I need?
Measure your terrace and determine the desired configuration (L-shape, U-shape, straight). A straight 2-seater module is typically 120–140 cm wide, a corner element 80–90 × 80–90 cm. Add up the lengths and compare with your terrace width, including walking space of 70–80 cm. Our experts are happy to help you with the calculation.
Are modular lounge sets heavier than fixed sets?
Per element they are slightly lighter because they are smaller. The total set weighs comparable to a fixed set of the same size. Advantage of modular: you can move the elements one by one, which is much easier than shifting a large fixed set.
Can I expand a modular set later if the range is no longer being made?
That is a risk with modular sets. Therefore choose established brands with a broad range and ask when purchasing about the guarantee of availability of additional elements. Brands such as Garden Impressions typically keep popular ranges available for several years. Also keep the product numbers of your current modules.
