In a city defined by sunshine, Saddleback of San Diego makes living outdoors easy. A local retailer for more than 40 years, Saddleback of San Diego is currently owned by national chain Carls Patio West. Former owners Tony and Donna Stevens sold the company in 2005 to the national merchant wholesalers, enabling the San Diego establishment to double in size and become one of the biggest patio suppliers in the nation. Well-versed in manufacturing outdoor furniture, Saddleback of San Diego’s buyers are the key to the company’s success, said spokesman Lyle Ecoff. “Our buying team has a combined 100 years of experience, [and] our sales staff are highly trained because they have so much more they have to know to be effective,” he said. When the living room comes with an ocean breeze and salty air, modular sectionals are ideal, Ecoff said. “They allow our customer to place our furniture in any sized outdoor area,” he said. Other ocean-friendly options include the powder-coated, painted aluminum and sling furniture. Today, San Diegans have come to welcome the patio as an extension of their home. “We study current and past design trends in furniture, fixtures [and] clothing for inspiration,” Ecoff said. “We require our factories to use the latest technologies for raw materials so our furniture will withstand our weather and look beautiful for years and years.” Though drastic weather in San Diego is rare, a favorite among locals with an ocean view is weather proof wicker. With patio trends that have made the exterior just as stylish as the interior, new designs feature “stronger colors in fabrics, cushion and umbrellas,” Ecoff said. Comfortable patio furniture is a necessity with summer weather year round. “The entire industry continues to evolve,” Ecoff said. “We now rival the style and design that the indoor furniture industry enjoys.” Visit Saddleback of San Diego at 7371 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. The phone number is (858) 292-7385.