Outdoor Nook Buying Guide

Modular Outdoor Seating: Design a Layout That Actually Fits Your Space

Most outdoor sofas are one fixed shape. A modular sectional is a kit of parts — so the furniture adapts to your patio, not the other way around.

Explore The Collection ↓
Malibu II 6-piece wicker modular sectional sofa set

01 — At a Glance

Is modular right for you?

Malibu II comes in two systems: fixed recliners built for one specific setup, or modular pieces you combine into whatever your space needs. Here's how to tell which one you are.

Malibu II 5-piece wicker modular console loveseat set

Choose Modular If

Your space doesn't fit a standard shape.

Your space is oddly shaped, you entertain occasionally but don't need permanent full seating, or you want to change the layout by season.


Malibu II reclining sofa conversation set in Sunbrella Canvas Taupe

Choose Fixed Recliners If

You already know exactly how you'll use the space.

You know exactly how you'll use the space and want dedicated recline-first seating (see our Wicker vs. Aluminum guide).

02 — How Modular Actually Works

The pieces

Malibu left and right arm chair unit

Left & Right Arm Chair Unit

One-sided arm, available left or right — closes a straight line cleanly.

Malibu armless unit

Armless Unit

Extends a run of seating in a straight line.

Malibu corner unit

Corner Unit

Anchors an "L" or "U" shape.

Malibu console unit

Console Unit

Adds a built-in side table between seats, for drinks or a book.

Malibu ottoman unit

Ottoman Unit

Doubles as a footrest, extra seating, or an impromptu coffee table.

Every unit shares the same frame height, cushion depth, and dark brown/grey mixed wicker — so any combination looks intentional, not improvised.

03 — Real Layouts for Real Spaces

Four ways to build it

3-piece modular sofa for a balcony

The Balcony Fix

A 3-piece modular sofa (left & right arm chairs + one armless) turns an 8×6 balcony into an actual sitting area — no wasted footprint.

4-piece modular sofa with ottoman

The Everyday Corner

4-piece with ottoman: left & right arm chairs, one armless, one ottoman. Enough for a couple most evenings, with a spot to prop your feet up.

5-piece console loveseat set

The Host's Layout

5-piece console loveseat set: seating for four to five plus a built-in side table — no separate side table needed mid-conversation.

6-piece modular sectional with recliners

Go Big for the Backyard

6-piece modular sectional, with a pair of Malibu II swivel glider recliners anchoring either end — group seating in the middle, dedicated recline seats for the two people who want to fully unwind.

04 — Sizing & Planning

Measure twice, configure once

Modular only works if the pieces actually fit. Here's the quick math outdoor designers use to plan a layout before ordering.

30″ × 35.8″

Armless Unit

Per seat, in a straight run

35.8″ × 35.8″

Corner Unit

Anchors an L or U turn

35.8″ × 35.8″

Arm Chair Unit

One-sided arm, ends a straight run

35.8″ × 35.8″

Ottoman Unit

Footrest or extra perch

12″ × 35.8″

Console Unit

Same depth, adds a side table

Modular sectional dimension reference diagram
Modular sectional dimension reference diagram

05 — Buy with Confidence

Your Investment, Fully Protected

Outdoor furniture is an investment. Here's how we make sure it's a safe one.

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5-Year Frame Warranty

Frames and legs are covered for 5 years; cushions for 2 years. Full details in our warranty policy.

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14-Day Home Trial

Live with it. If it's not right for your space, send it back — no restocking fee.

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Free & Easy Returns

If you're not 100% in love, we'll pick it up and give you a full refund. See our return policy for details.

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Free Fast Shipping

Free express delivery by FedEx across the USA, arriving in 5–7 days. See our shipping FAQ for details.

06 — Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions

Can I mix modular pieces with different fabric colors?
Yes, within the same production run — though most customers keep one fabric across the set for a cohesive look.
Can I start small and add pieces later?
Yes — this is the main advantage of modular. Start with a 3-piece and add a corner or console unit down the line as your space or budget allows.
How do the pieces connect?
Units sit flush against each other and are secured with connector brackets — no tools needed for reconfiguration once assembled.
Is a modular sectional as durable as a fixed sofa?
Yes — every unit has the identical rust-proof aluminum frame as the rest of the Malibu collection; modularity doesn't compromise the build.
Can I add a recliner to a modular layout?
Yes — Malibu II recliners are designed to sit alongside modular sectional pieces, sharing the same frame and wicker finish.

Start With One Piece, or Design the Whole Layout

Join Now, Save Later

Either way, it grows with you. Get on the list for a members-only discount on your next order — plus new arrivals and design ideas first.