Can we see samples of the actual materials for the benches and planter boxes?

Absolutely—and I’m so glad you asked. Seeing a photo of a finished bench or planter box is one thing, but feeling the texture, noticing the grain, and holding the color in your own hands is where the real connection happens. That’s why we encourage every client to request physical material samples before making a decision.

For the benches, we currently offer three primary material families: natural cedar, powder-coated steel, and weather-resistant HDPE (a recycled plastic composite). I can send you a set of swatches for each. The cedar sample shows its warm, slightly aromatic character and the subtle knots that make each piece unique. The steel sample comes in several finishes—matte black, bronze, and even a weathered rust tone—so you can gauge how light plays across its surface. As for the HDPE, it feel smooth and solid, and it resists fading remarkably well; I’ll include a few color chips like slate grey, sand, and forest green.

For the planter boxes, the range expands a bit. You can choose from the same cedar and steel options, plus a rusted Corten steel for that industrial garden look, or even a powder-coated aluminum for lighter weight and zero maintenance. I have actual swatches of the Corten’s orange-brown patina and the aluminum’s sleek finish ready to mail to you.

Just let me know which materials you’re most interested in, and I’ll put together a sample kit with labeled swatches and a small ruler for scale. You can feel the weight, test it against your outdoor lighting, and even try to scratch it (go ahead—I promise our finishes are tough). Once you’ve touched and seen them in person, we can move forward with confidence. It’s your space, after all; you deserve to know exactly what you’re getting.