IMO and my own personal regret, $2k isn't enough for a mid-level conversation set and dining set. I’ve too been stressing over where to allocate my budget. Outdoor furniture is an investment as quality = longevity. No other “room” in your house has such harsh conditions.

In many parts of the country and online, this is the beginning of the off-season which means sales. Since you have a dining table, i’d start with shopping for “living room” pieces. Just like your indoor living room, you do not have to buy a set. i’d concentrate on individual chairs because sitting next to some one on a hot evening isn’t that pleasant. It is critical to provide a place to sit a drink for every guest. A coffee table with a small firepit in the center can be great draw and extend your outdoor season. But don't forget end tables if needed. You might add a small bar cart with ice bucket. I bought an insulated ice cooler on wheels to keep guests and kids hydrated. Looks fabulous, too.

I like to define each outdoor room with a bold and colorful indoor/outdoor carpet. It also keeps the seating area cooler for bare feet. I have three “rooms” each with a different carpet that shares two colors. Makes for a wonderful and welcoming backyard.

Enjoy your pool! I miss not having one but our swim season is too short.

Thank you

We purchased a very expensive outdoor table (large oval) and eight chairs about 17 years ago and they still look good now. We bring the cushions inside when we're not using them, so the cushions still look good too. The set is metal with a powder coat finish. The table has a glass top and it sits out all winter long (in the NE). We just wash it gently (so as not to damage the finish) occasionally. I honestly expect to have it another 17 years. So I agree with Sharon that it does pay to spend enough to get good quality.

Wow! What brand?

I have a wrought iron set my in-laws gave me when they got a new set. It is outside through Missouri heat and snow. Every few years I clean it and repaint. It's 50+ years old.

It appears you already have a dining set . I like color ourside so I would probably look for something for seating in a blue but the same color metal as the dining set. I aslo think outdoor rugs soften all the concrete and give you another place to add color. Then maybe next year a new dining set .Maybe even just get 2 sofas this year and add chairs next year.