The Good Life

Other companies are experimenting with color and substance. Tidelli in Brazil makes all-weather synthetic wickers in vibrant colors like citric green and orange ( tidelli.com ). California-based Concreteworks Studio makes refined pieces from a lightweight cement-based composite. Its unique lounge chair is hand-cast and comes in a variety of colors and finishes. Armless with no frills, it looks as much a piece of modern sculpture as a place to rest your bum ($4,000; concreteworks.com ).

Even swings are getting an update. The massive Viteo Swing from Austria has a stainless-steel frame supporting a flat bench in teak, oak or larch, with up to four individual adjustable backs ($5,881; viteo.at ). Horchow's single-seat swing is an egg-shape basket suspended from a wrought-iron stand, reminiscent of a birdcage. It has red cushions covered in weather-resistant fabric and an optional matching ottoman ($1,579; horchow.com ). So relax!

4 Hours in . . . Edinburgh

Scotland's capital is steeped in tradition and celebrated for its beauty. Here's how to make the most of it in a short time:

Feast on Scottish delicacies such as wild salmon and Buccleuch beef in the stunning décor of the Witchery by Edinburgh Castle. (Castle Hill, Royal Mile. Open daily, noon-11 p.m.)

Sip specialist single malts in a warm atmosphere at the Malt Shovel. (11-15 Cockburn Street, Old Town)