If you take your outdoor decorating seriously, you will not be happy with the patio and garden offerings from the likes of Target and Walmart. Assuming you have the budget, the Almodington bench by Munder-Skiles Garden Furniture Company of Garrison is one elegant alternative. The bench is made of raw teak and it will weather to a silvery gray in the sun. The Chippendale-style bench, c.1770, was discovered at the Almodington House in Maryland. It is believed to be the earliest wooden bench designed and produced in America. The 8 foot long original was acquired by Munder-Skiles, and given to The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts. 4-panel 
Almodington Bench, produced by exclusive license. $4600. 212-717-0150. munder-skiles.com