Reviewer: Stewart Savin, senior SEO analyst
Model tested: Castlery Rio Outdoor Teak Sofa
The details: Established in 2013, Castlery originally operated in Singapore but has expanded into the US and Australia as a direct-to-consumer brand. They pride themselves on their attention to material and manufacturing quality at every stage of the process with the goal to provide durable and stylish products at a fair price point. We’ve tested dozens of Castlery products over the years, but this is our first venture into their outdoor offerings.
Ordering Process
How much does it cost? Are there payment plans available?
The Rio Outdoor Teak Sofa costs $1,999, a price comparable to similar retailers like Pottery Barn and Ballard Designs. As with many retailers, Affirm partners with Castlery to offer payment plans to eligible buyers.
What are the upholstery or customization options? Did you choose any?
This item only comes in one colorway, Natural Beige Olefin fabric and teak wood. Most Castlery outdoor products only come in one or two colors, which could be a drawback for customers with particular palettes in mind.
What is the lead time for customization, manufacturing, and delivery?
Delivery timing will depend on your location. Since my outdoor sofa was ready to ship it only took about two weeks to arrive in Cary, North Carolina, from Savannah.
Delivery & assembly
What was the delivery process like?
I took advantage of white-glove delivery, which is an extra $100 on top of the standard $150 shipping fee. I received a call to schedule the delivery and two associates arrived promptly at that time. They carried the item to the spot I requested, unpacked it, assembled it, and removed the packing materials all in about 45 minutes.
What was the assembly process like? How long did it take and how many people?
The two delivery associates were able to manage it pretty quickly, however, it is a rather large piece of furniture, so be prepared to spread out if you’re assembling it yourself.
Is the outdoor sofa suitable for particular decor styles, and if so, which?
This sofa leans more modern due to its clean lines and angles but I think it could work in many spaces. The colors and textures are neutral enough for plenty of different outdoor settings. That said, it would be nice if custom upholstery was an option, especially if you could buy individual covers. Other retailers at similar price points tend to have more custom upholstery options.
How has the sofa stood up to changes in weather/seasonal shifts?
I’ve been very impressed with the durability of this sofa. It looks as good today as it did the day it was delivered in August 2024. We have taken care to cover it during extreme climate days, so I would recommend purchasing the cover. The fabric is hard to stain and any small spots come out easily with a wet rag. Meanwhile, the teak wood has maintained its color and shape through triple-digit and single-digit temperatures. This sofa has withstood pollen, snowstorms, thunderstorms, and even a hurricane! Plus our pup enjoys lounging on it as much as we do.
