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Outdoor dining area designs


37 al fresco entertaining spaces |

(Image credit: Vanrenen)

Outdoor dining ideas help set the scene for our most memorable meals.

There’s nothing quite like light lunches bathing in the summer sun, or being bundled up in blankets with a glass of wine and a hearty meal under the stars – so make sure your backyard ideas are ready for hosting. 

Taking dinner from the dining room to the deck doesn’t mean you should lower your aesthetic standards, so be sure to put as much care and attention into your dining table and surroundings as you would for any space enclosed in four walls.

There are also one or two extra considerations you’ll need to make with an outdoor set up – from working with the elements all year round, to tying in your decor with the surrounding nature – so we’ve asked the experts to share their top tips, and found some inspiring examples to boost your al fresco experience.

Outdoor dining ideas – 37 beautiful ways to dine outside

These smart outdoor dining ideas will inspire you, whether you're incorporating a dining area as part of your outdoor kitchen ideas, or tucking a small bistro area into the corner of your patio.  

1. Find a sheltered spot for your outdoor dining area

(Image credit: Garden Trading)

There are two schools of thought on this, says Lucy Searle, Global Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens. 'Either create a convenient space close to the house for ease of access and a seamless flow from indoors to outside, or pick a spot in a picturesque or secluded part of the garden, where you can create a cozy, sheltered outdoor dining area.' 

Take into account orientation. Avoid siting an outdoor dining area in the part of a backyard which receives the sun at midday and early afternoon or it may become unbearably hot, unless you are designing it in conjunction with pergola shade ideas. West-facing is ideal, allowing you to maximize light and warmth in the evening, and perhaps even affording a glimpse of the sunset too.

And remember, an outdoor dining area doesn’t have to be the only end destination in a garden. Experiment with siting it near a pathway through to another garden zone, or beside a visual focal point.  This will help the space to feel like an active part of the garden’s natural flow, rather than cut off. 

2. Create an indoor-outdoor dining space

(Image credit: Vanrenen)

Just as you would indoors, consider the pluses and minuses of keeping outdoor dining and outdoor living room ideas separate or connected. If your backyard is large, dedicated areas can give function to the generous plot and create gathering points. However, with the popularity of open-plan living indoors, many people now prefer to have the two spaces flowing easily into each other. 

'I don’t think there should be any distinction between dining or entertaining areas other than there being a dining table and chairs and then a more relaxed and comfortable sitting area,' says interior designer Sarah Vanrenen of GW Designs . 'My own covered outdoor space has no walls for a large part of it and it works incredibly well. I love the fact that we can spread out into the garden and that the garden comes right up to the edge. '

3. Stay warm with table-top heating

(Image credit: Dobbies)

When you’re eating, drinking and relaxing it’s easy to lose track of time and not notice as dusk begins to fall and temperatures drop. You want your guests to feel comfortable so to avoid the shivers, think about how you’re going to provide warmth. Simple solutions include an in-built table-top backyard fire pit, one of this year’s leading outdoor living trends. 

Or you may prefer a stand-alone firepit, in which case opt for a tall slim model rather than a bowl, to save space and for safety’s sake too. Other options include an overhead electric heater, preferably built in to an existing wall, again to maximize floor space, or a gas heater, but bear in mind that although reliable and convenient, this isn’t the most eco-friendly choice.  

4. Choose the best outdoor furniture

(Image credit: Dobbies)

How to choose that all-important table and chairs is a key design decision which will affect the entire space, so take your time to research different looks and ask if your chosen outdoor furniture is waterproof. A contemporary scheme will usually need materials, shapes and colors to hang together coherently to make the strongest impact; there’s little leeway with angular lines and highly-polished materials such as brushed or stainless steel.

However, a relaxed vintage vibe allows for a more eclectic approach. Do decide on a color scheme however and stick to it, perhaps choosing one background shade such as cream and picking up surrounding plants and garden features for accents, or your outdoor dining space can end up looking muddled.

If you’re struggling to decide, classic teak never looks out of place and can be styled in so many different ways. It may cost a little more than some man-made alternatives, but over the many years of happy outdoor gatherings, this natural and easy to maintain material will return your investment. 

5. Tablescape to impress

(Image credit: Susie Watson Designs)

The great thing about decorating an outdoor dining space is that you can let your imagination run wild. When it comes to the table, start with a cloth or runner in a complementary or contrasting shade to the surrounding color scheme. You can even add another on top, perhaps lengthways or as a centerpiece for added emphasis.

Build up the center of the table by bringing in items of different heights, but always stick to the same kind of textures – so natural wood would go with hessian and recycled glass for a natural look – and at the most, three colors to help the whole look hang together.

To reflect all available light, bring in small mirrored items such as coasters or candlesticks, and add flowers and foliage such as ferns and ivy – anything with a strong structure that hangs and drapes well. Ideally, stems and greenery would come from your own garden or backyard, but if the best blooms aren’t in season yet, fake it.

6. Pick the perfect plants for an outdoor dining area

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

The first step is to add garden screening ideas, perhaps a backdrop of light airy plants around an outdoor dining area to provide a semi-permeable effect, allowing dappled light to pass through, says landscape architect Oliver Bond, of Bond Landscape Design Limited . 'This effect also allows glimpses of the areas and elements beyond, drawing the eye through the space and making it feel more connected and inviting.'

Oliver also has a list of favorite plants he always like to include around an outdoor dining area, including herb garden ideas and plants that attract butterflies. 'These include varieties of Lavandula and Salvia, Rosmarinus officinalis, and Verbena bonariensis in addition to other herbs and pollinator plants,' he says. 'I love to include these plants as a base palette and add to it.'

He adds that with an outdoor dining area, always use plants that provide constant interest: 'These provide a pull to the space, whatever the time of year. Also, I always aim to bring in plants that allow for sensory elements, enhancing the connection to the space, whether through sight, scent, or sound – rustling leaves are so relaxing. I even include herbs by seats so that people can grab a few sprigs of herbs as a fresh addition to their drinks. '

(Image credit: King)

Avoid squeezing the dining area against the boundaries of your garden or yard, as it’s good to leave lots of room for borders or planters to soften the space. 'If you can’t provide borders, use large planted pots instead, as this will give the same effect,' says garden designer Lucy Conochie, owner of Lucy Conochie Design .

Adding any kind of border around an outdoor dining area will also go a long way towards creating a feeling of seclusion. To soften the look, Lucy likes to allow self-seeding plants such as Red Valerian to infiltrate hard landscaping. You might even remove a paver or two and fill with tough resilient plants such as grasses or house leeks to add texture and interest. 

Lucy would also leave established shrubs and trees in place. She says that making the most of the green structure and natural framework they provide could mean laying a smaller patio or choosing a different dining set, 'but the visual and wellbeing benefits provided by an established canopy of foliage will more than outweigh this. '

8. Include shelter against the elements

(Image credit: King)

Adding an overhead shade, sail, canopy, gazebo or pergola roof ideas to an outdoor dining area achieves several aims in one move. It will provide shade for warmer days and depending on the density and water-proofing, shelter from the rain. 

If your garden or yard is overlooked, in an urban area for example, it will also offer privacy from neighbors above. And if you opt for a pergola or another kind of open-work structure you can use it as a base for climbing plants which bring color and ideally fragrance to the space. Do choose an evergreen climber however, such as pyracantha or in temperate climates, opt for a grapevine.

One golden rule if you’re considering cover for your outdoor dining space – always err on the generous side. The idea is to provide an encompassing canopy that covers everyone at the table, as no-one wants to be left out in the cold!

9. Create a 'hug wall' for intimacy

(Image credit: King)

Garden designer Caroline Boor, of Caroline Boor Garden Design says that in her schemes she always designs in some form of enclosure to generate a feeling of security and safety. This idea is particularly important when creating an outdoor dining area; no-one wants to feel as if they are on a stage when they’re eating, so avoid raising a dining area on a plinth. 

The rules would be slightly different for a smaller table and chairs which have been positioned to catch the morning sun – with a cup of coffee perhaps – but in general, go low. 'If you can’t dig an actual sunken area, an alternative way to create this feeling of enclosure is in the form of a wall,' Caroline says. 'I created one garden where the wall gently slopes down from the back to create a feeling of being held in a cocoon. The client calls this “the hug wall”.'

10. Work in outdoor lighting

(Image credit: Sparkle Lighting)

There are lots of clever things you can do with smart technology to program backyard garden lighting ideas directly from your smartphone or voice-activated device. Experiment and discover ways for the lights to turn on and off at set times every day or to brighten slowly as darkness falls.  

However, you’ll also want to create a warm and characterful atmosphere over and around the focal point of the table. For this, take an organic and instinctive approach. Garlands of fairy lights or bulbs and lanterns hung from the branches of trees or suspended from exterior walls on wires are such a pretty choice and can be switched around easily. You might also consider adding a mains-powered water feature with integral light, for a soothing and relaxing outdoor vibe.

11. Mix-and-match outdoor dining furniture

(Image credit: Swan Architecture)

Indoors, matching furniture sets have fallen out of favor in recent years, replaced instead by curated, complementary pieces that create a more personal, less showroom-y feel. So, why settle for a basic furniture arrangement outside? Skip the boxed table-and-chairs set, and choose each piece on its own. 

Here, a matching craftsman-style dining table and bench are given a contemporary bent thanks to modern metal dining chairs.

12. Add a dining area on a covered porch

(Image credit: Jane Beiles Photography)

Don't let the sun's afternoon glare or a light summer rain cancel your al fresco dining plans. For an outdoor dining area that's protected from the elements, set up a table and chairs on a covered front porch, like at the home of interiors photographer Jane Beiles , above. 

The ability to hang a statement pendant light above the table is a stylish bonus. 

13. Create a relaxed dining experience

(Image credit: Shannon Paige Events / David Christensen for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles’ Southeastern Showhouse)

For an impromptu gathering, or simply a way to switch up the typical outdoor dining area, try lining up a row of cocktail tables, and forgo dining chairs for large outdoor cushions. 

'We wanted to bring a layer of whimsy to our dining space that mirrored the surrounding gardens,' says Alyssa DeBord, co-founder of Shannon Paige Events , who designed the space above for the Southeastern Designer Showhouse & Gardens in Atlanta. 'There are places for more formal dining inside, and we wanted to take a more relaxed, but still elegant, approach. What better way to enjoy a sunny spring afternoon than dining in the garden Al fresco style?'

14. Host a crowd with a full-sized dining table

(Image credit: Sam Wadieh)

If you tend to host a lot during the summer months, or you live in a climate where year-round outdoor dining is an option, consider making your backyard space your default dining area with an oversized outdoor dining table.

At the Los Angeles home, above, the homeowners took advantage of their outdoor square footage to compensate for their home's smaller footprint by adding a dining table that seats eight. The modern set plays into the home's midcentury origins.

15. Create a sense of place

(Image credit: Pearl Design Studio / Nickolas Sargent (Sargent Photography))

Dining outside always feels like an occasion, so why not set the scene for memorable evenings to come? Create a sense of place by choosing outdoor furnishings, accents, and lighting that evoke a certain region or design style.

Texas-based firm Pearl Design Interiors . chose a vintage, Art Deco-inspired dining set, paired with tropical-inspired accents to underscore this home's Palm Beach locale. 

16. Blend form and function

(Image credit: Mel Bean / Laurey Glenn)

Designer Mel Bean's goal for this luxurious outdoor grill station and dining area was function, first and foremost. 'It's important that the design is functional for the family,' she says. To achieve this, she prioritized 'hardworking fabrics and an open-concept layout that connects to the outdoors for family - kids and dogs included - to move around.' 

The furnishings are a nod to Scandi-inspired living spaces, with a coastal undertone.

17. Glow up with romantic candlelight

(Image credit: Neptune)

Lighting isn’t always the easiest thing to get right when setting up outdoor dining – requiring an electrical connection can limit the positioning of your table. Dining by candlelight, however, doesn’t require any power and adds a romantic quality to your meal’s atmosphere.  

Use candles in conjunction with electrical festoon lights, wall sconces or a dangled chandelier as in this festive example from Neptune – you’ll need some reliable lighting for your outdoor kitchen ideas, after all – or go solo for a rustic feeling. 

18. Get into the holiday spirit with cozy parties 

(Image credit: Tim Young)

Don’t limit your al fresco dining pursuits to summer – fall and winter are the holiday seasons, and that means party time year-round. Whatever the weather, get your garden bar ideas in shape and procure yourself a patio heater, and host an outdoor cocktail party to celebrate Halloween, the harvest, a pre-Thanksgiving soiree or even a British-style Bonfire Night like this one. 

If the weather looks changeable in these cooler months, keep the set up relaxed – like a barbecue on one of the best grills you can get, or a pot luck – to make it easy to dash indoors if absolutely necessary.  

19.

Get culinary with your table decor

(Image credit: David Brittain)

For dining table decor ideas that encompass both the surrounding nature and the main reason you’re all gathered around the table, put fruit and veg front and centre. Food can easily double up as decor, especially if you pair beautiful natural produce with florals, like in this example where cored apples become place name card holders, filled with seasonal flowers. 

This idea works beautifully in the fall for a harvest feast, or fill bowls with fragrant citrus fruits during summer.  And, of course, we’d advise you try to make sure the food can still be eaten after its turn as decor, to minimize wastage. 

20. Head out into the woods 

(Image credit: Emma Lee)

Feeling a little wild? Then take your outdoor dining beyond the deck and get a little closer to nature. If you are lucky enough to have a wooded area to your garden – big or small – then consider setting up your dining table below the canopies for an immersive meal.  

Go all out and bring the table, dining chairs, tablecloth and more outside to create a surreal and very special set up. Of course, you’ll need to be extremely careful with any outdoor fireplace ideas, but a well-managed firepit like the one joining this forest meal can create an elevated campfire fee

21. Style an outdoor dining room with a parasol

(Image credit: East London Parasol Company)

Enhance a sun-trap terrace area of your garden with a parasol for a pretty bohemian feel. 

Choose a palette based around natural colours found in your garden for a subtle appearance, or highlight the summer sunshine with bright yellows and oranges to add a splash of vibrancy to an otherwise green planting scheme. 

Coordinate with seat cushions and tablecloths to turn a simple bistro set into an indulgent spot for dining and relaxation. Make sure to take care of your parasol to ensure its longevity.

Lucy Ferguson, founder of the East London Parasol Company who designed this set up recommends to store your parasol in their bag as upright as possible to avoid irritation, away from radiators.  

Avoid putting them away damp, even if you have a parasol made from a water-resistant material, and always remember to take down any type of parasol, sail or umbrella if any wind picks up. 

22. Dress your outdoor dining table

(Image credit: Summerill and Bishop)

Make an effort to style your outdoor dining table as you would for any indoor event. Take inspiration from cult tableware brand Summerill & Bishop by creating a scheme in harmony with the natural world. 

A simple white linen tablecloth laid with glassware and flatware in shades of white and green becomes the perfect setting for a fresh summer luncheon. Flowers are key to achieving this look, so include either a generous bouquet or a selection of bud vases overflowing with seasonal blooms.

23. Showcase natural materials

(Image credit: Emma Lee)

When looking for outdoor dining ideas, create a relaxed vibe by showcasing natural materials. Linen and cotton tablecloths, napkins and seat covers will add a tactile note from nature, and help ground the zone in the garden.  

Heighten this by putting away the melamine and instead setting the table with recycled glassware and satisfyingly organic Wonki Ware. Limiting yourself to plain colours rather the integrating pattern also helps encourage this natural feel.

24. Utilize lighting for atmosphere

(Image credit: The White Company)

‘Whatever the size or state of your outdoor space, you can still create the perfect atmosphere for relaxing outside,’ says Chrissie Rucker OBE. ‘The key is to conjure up an intimate, self-contained area – whether it’s on a terrace or in the corner of a garden.’ 

As in this look from The White Company above, dress this area with pretty outdoor lighting ideas for the perfect ambience. Include festoon or fairy lights, lanterns and candles at different heights and brightness for added interest and romance. 

(Image credit: Neptune)

Give your guests an all-round experience by recreating this set up from Neptune. ‘When designing your outdoor space it’s important to consider a number of things, primarily comfortable seating, and texture,’ says George Miller, Home Designer at Neptune Fulham.

‘Add a simple sheepskin or throw to ward off the cool evening chill, and our scatter cushions to add a drop of color. Dressing your space will create character, personality and an inviting atmosphere for you and your guests.’

26. Use your dining table outside

(Image credit: Emma Lee)

Taking a great last-minute option, especially if you have no space to store outdoor furniture in wet weather and don't have a garden dining table large enough to cope with guests. 

You can still enjoy good times al fresco. Simply move your indoor dining table and chairs outside temporarily. Dress your table with linen runners and napkins, and bring out your china and glassware. It will look lovely twinkling in the light of a hurricane lamp or candelabra.

And do as Tasha Green, director of outdoor soft furnishing specialist Weaver Green, does and lay an outdoor rug under your table.

'It makes the space feel considered and comfortable, and keeps evening chills off your feet,' she says. When choosing a spot for your table, make sure it's near enough to the house to make transporting everything a little less onerous.

27. Make an outdoor dining area festive

(Image credit: Future)

Whether you opt for a drinks' area in summer, colorful bunting and garden lighting or baubles suspended from tree branches in winter, there are plenty of ideas to make an outdoor dining space feel festive.

28. Dine under a shelter – or a shade

(Image credit: Mark Bolton)

A garden pod with a shaded roof is a fantastic investment for relaxed outdoor dining all year round. Good ones come with a roof that can slide back at the touch of a button, detachable sides and even heaters.

On sunny days, choose a natural muted color scheme for your table setting to keep the atmosphere light and cool. Save on storage space by selecting weatherproof chairs, such as these, which can be left outside all year.

A pergola is another useful way of demarcating seating or eating areas, plus it brings an attractive architectural element to an outdoor space.

'They add height and interest to a garden,' says RHS Chelsea Gold medal-winning garden designer Kate Gould. 'And are useful for creating shady, secluded seating areas.' For a comfortable spot such as this in which to kick back and relax, choose low-level seating with plenty of cushions.

29. Keep it simple with a less is more approach

(Image credit: Alicia Taylor)

There is no simpler way of creating a welcoming spot for al fresco meals than with a generous table and some comfy chairs on a paved area near the house, like this one at interior designer Fiona Crole's home. 

'Round tables make for an informal, relaxed setting, plus everyone can see and hear each other,' says Amy Conn, product development season leader at Neptune. A classic parasol ensures you can linger on the hottest summer days, and adds shelter on cooler days.

30. Choose a room with a view

(Image credit: Jon Day)

Beat unpredictable weather with a garden room. Michael Barnes, MD of Apropos, which specializes in indoor/outdoor rooms, says, 'Verandas – with or without bi-folding doors – and aluminum pergolas to shelter you from sudden rainstorms both offer great options for a stylish hybrid garden space.'

31. Inject style with colorful dining chairs

(Image credit: Jody Stewart)

Against the backdrop of stripped wood flooring, these brightly upholstered chairs inject energy into this room designed Tor Interiors .

Go one step further and have the backs covered in a contrasting design, then take them outside for one day only. Want to brighten plain chairs to create a cheerful color scheme to suit the occasion? Bright blankets and cushions will do the trick and add to your guests' comfort.

32. Add a pretty tablecloth

(Image credit: David Brittain)

Pale grays and taupes form the starting point for a beautiful al fresco table. Add accents of blush on candles and vintage greens on glassware. Muted metals, coarse linens and mottled marble add cool and serene country details.

33. Set a pastoral scene

(Image credit: Mark Scott)

Let the heady beauty of garden-grown delights inspire your late summer decor. Lay a table ready for a harvest-time gathering with linens influenced by the cutting garden alongside homely and honest serveware and furniture.

34. Unwind with a relaxed country look

(Image credit: Mark Bolton)

One for warmer weather, a table and chairs set by the river makes for an exceptional experience, especially when accompanied by birdsong and bluebells, and the fragrant scent of lavender.

35. Seek a view

(Image credit: Emma Lee)

When creating your outdoor entertaining scheme, why not take the colors of the surroundings as your starting point?

In the case of this Provençal terrace overlooking a glorious vista, we needed to do little more than echo the soft olive greens of the fields and hills beyond.

For relaxed summer dining, the best thing is to keep place settings simple. It helps guest feel like it's time to relax.

36.  Set up a pretty picnic area

(Image credit: Future/Photography: Dan Duchars; Styling: Marie Nichols)

Give al fresco dining a refined twist and banish brash melamine in favor of beautiful glassware, rattan and brass.

Get all the senses going with a sensational spread of mixed materials and colors to evoke the vitality of the garden on the tabletop.

Layer a relaxed linen base cloth with striking glazed stoneware, colored glassware and a ‘living runner’ of abundant foliage and staggered fresh flowers. A simple canopy shade adds an exotic finishing touch, complemented with a peppering of luxurious cushions. 

37. Focus on the details

(Image credit: Future/Photography: Dan Duchars; Styling: Marie Nichols)

Enjoy a healthy eating plan with dinnerware favouring the five-a-day mantra – don’t skip the leafy greens. Adopt an allotment-style mix and match approach with artisanal designs in ‘perfectly imperfect’ organic shapes.

When it comes to floral arrangements, say au revoir to formal installations and give fresh, seasonal stems the space and freedom to cascade, tumble and spread wildly – embracing a variety of heights and shapes for effortless volume and untamed beauty. 

What’s the ideal height for an outdoor dining table?

The ideal height for an outdoor table depends on how you’re going to use your outdoor dining area. 'If you want a social hub for your guests to relax in while you cook – especially alongside an outdoor kitchen – an island unit is ideal,' says Chris Dance, head designer and director at InHouse Inspired Room Design. 'A low coffee-style table offers a casual setting for socialising, an early morning coffee or evening cocktails. For a more formal experience, traditional sit-down dining tables are ideal for dinners, long lunches, and special occasions. '

If you need your dining surface to be as flexible and multifunctional as possible, invest in a table with both high and low level so that it can easily adapt to any kind of social situation. 

How can I make my outdoor dining space super-welcoming?

To make your outdoor dining area super welcoming, pay as much attention to setting the scene as you would do with your dining room ideas indoors, with warm and textured throws, cushions and rugs. 

Low-level lighting such as candles in storm lanterns is flattering and casts interesting shadows. Think elegance when you’re entertaining. If you’re using outdoor flatware and glassware, choose a sophisticated style which echoes your favorite dining pieces indoors rather than items which scream ‘picnic’. 

Interior designer Sarah Vanrenen says that when she’s planning an outdoor space she always includes a fire – 'whether is actual fireplace on a wall or a firepit'. She is a firm believer that a fire is a natural place for people to gravitate towards and allows the space to be used all year-round.  

How can I make my outdoor dining room look nice?

If you're stuck for patio ideas, the key is to view an outdoor dining area as an extension of the kitchen or living room and are style your patio accordingly.

'Be bold by integrating interior and exterior colors and style,' says RHS Chelsea Gold medal-winning garden designer Tony Woods of Garden Club London. 'If you have a feature wall color inside, run it outside and along the boundary. Or if you have a very light interior, continue it outside: then choose furnishings to fit the space.

'The key with styling an outdoor area is to look at the hard landscaping and work around it, building your theme from that starting point,' advises Tasha Green of outdoor soft furnishing specialist Weaver Green.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

With contributions from

10 Fabulous Outdoor Dining Ideas

By

Lisa Hallett Taylor

Lisa Hallett Taylor

Lisa Hallett Taylor is an expert in architecture and landscape design who has written more than 1,000 articles about pool, patio, garden, and home improvement over 12 years. She has a bachelor's degree in Environmental Design and is certified in fine and decorative arts appraisal.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 04/11/22

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

Whether your outdoor space is a city balcony or a sprawling ranch with enviable acreage, dining outdoors is a much-anticipated ritual during the warmer months of the year. And transforming your backyard or patio into a dining area ​involves very little effort. The goal is to create an outdoor eating area that's both comfortable and stylish.

Here are some helpful tips to maximize the potential of your outdoor dining area, and 10 ideas for how to make a cozy, welcoming dining area worth showing off to your friends.

Consider the Location of Your Outdoor Dining Area

Design a space around your lifestyle, rather than designing your lifestyle around the space. For instance, if you love to entertain, you might want to spring for as large of a dining table as possible. But if it's just your immediate family that will typically use the space, you can create a cozier setting. Either way, make sure there is enough space for people to move comfortably around the dining area.

Moreover, it's ideal to situate the outdoor eating area near an access point to your kitchen. Plus, having easy access to the house is helpful for quick trips to the bathroom. On the other hand, you don't want to place your outdoor table too close to a grill due to the heat and fumes.

It's important to be conscientious about the noise your outdoor dining area will create, especially if you have outdoor speakers or like to hold gatherings late into the night. Establish some breathing room between your property and your neighbors', if possible. And be aware of how noise will carry into your home. Don't situate the table under the window of a child who naps or goes to sleep early. Try to devise a layout that will make everyone happy.

Chuck Schmidt / Getty Images

Choosing the Right Outdoor Dining Set

If you're planning to purchase a new outdoor dining set, ask yourself these questions before buying:

The design of your outdoor dining set ultimately comes down to personal preference. Remember that outdoor dining is inherently informal, and there's no rule that says the table and chairs must all match. Sometimes an eclectic look ends up being much more inviting and comfortable than a uniform dining set. Many people even seek out that look, purchasing inexpensive, mismatched outdoor furniture.

Summer dining: photos and 92 outdoor dining and garden table design ideas

Food always tastes better outdoors. For those who are thinking about a full-fledged dining area in a summer cottage or garden plot - a breathtakingly beautiful solution: outdoor summer dining rooms. There are capital buildings, there are mobile summer dining groups. Get inspired!

Photographer Mikhail Pomortsev / Pro.Foto

1. Cozy hearth
Panoramic fireplace will fit perfectly into a roofed veranda or gazebo. A good option for fans of gatherings in cool weather and residents of places with changeable summers. And yes, this is Yekaterinburg.

S&S Design

2. Imaginary wall
Try using wooden posts to visually mark an open space. Pick up a garden table and finish the facade of the house "in tone" - you will get a single ensemble with a summer dining room.

Kerimov Architects

3. Handmade outdoor furniture
Do you want to be different from everyone else? Order furniture according to individual sketches in the carpentry workshop, as the mistress of this house did. Another highlight here are copper lamps. Over time, the material will change color and play in a new way. The inside of the fixtures is covered with bright paint that imitates the glow when the lights are off.

READ ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTOS…
Project of the week: outbuilding for a country holiday with a garden on the roof

Architectural workshop za bor

Naturalistic and light shades of the composition fit well into the environment. Nothing superfluous ... just a dining group and a kitchen block with a barbecue.

READ ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO…
Project of the week: A gazebo-wave for the captain

Architectural studio "OLLAND"

5. Living fabrics
Thanks to the popularization of the eco-theme, artificial materials are increasingly being replaced by natural ones. Yes, they are more prone to fading, and high-quality pieces are not cheap. But environmentally friendly fabrics are pleasant to the touch, drape beautifully and "breathe".

SEE ALSO…
Not as simple as it looks: Natural linen for sewing curtains

u-space

6. Under reliable protection
A transparent canopy made of glass or polycarbonate transmits light well, and in inclement weather will protect family gatherings at dinner in the summer dining room.

Architectural workshop za bor

7. Color highlights
Boring polycarbonate panels can be "colourfully blown up" with the help of colored translucent film. In sunny weather, such inserts will create bright highlights inside the gazebo or on the veranda.

SEE ALSO
Design world: 144 amazing houses from around the world White is very popular. And you arrange an orange party in a color palette close to orange.

Rustem Urazmetov

9. Rubik's Cube
A transforming summer dining room is a great idea for active people. The dining space turns into a play area with pouffe cubes, and the rest of the area into a dance floor.

SEE ALSO…
More photos from this project

Honka Russia

Aged in a “natural” way, the surfaces of tables and cabinets will become the basis for the exterior in the shabby chic style.

11. Monochrome - negative
Monochromatic black space in the exterior also has the right to exist. The main thing is the predominance of clear straight lines and lightness of designs.

Architectural studio "Alba-Design"

12. Monochrome - positive
Snow-white is one of the most popular colors in the interior. Try to introduce it into the garden dining area - and even a simple dinner, it will make it more refined.

Alena Polyakova

13. Not just pillars
A dining room in the garden can be distinguished not only by a dining group. Cover the details of the frame of the covered structure with bright paint - and you can do without textile design and an abundance of flower arrangements.

Artel "Danila, Makar and Brothers"

14. Rustic motif
A great idea for steps: dig blocks of wood resistant to the vagaries of nature to different depths. For example, from larch, oak or ash. The rustic theme is well complemented by massive boulders.

READ ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO…
Project of the week: Soaring Karelian pine pavilion terrace

Evamix

15. Nature vs Classic
Lovers of classic style will like this option. Stucco molding can be replaced with polyurethane decorative elements. And to complement the image with openwork plastic screens and a chandelier with pendants.

Read about the project with photos ...
The project of the week: Basket-Kukhnya with stucco molding and openwork screens

Artel Danila, Makar and Brothers "

16. Rudeness as plus
manually made a table for a summer residence and benches devoid of decorative frills can be waxed to preserve the natural shade of wood. Moreover, benches from dead pine will be twice as light as, for example, from larch or oak.

READ ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO…
Project of the week: Arbor-terrace — turning summer cottage life into a holiday

Ksenia Bobrikova. Xenia Design Studio

17. Everything in the garden… winter
It is easy to adapt a greenhouse to a dining room. In summer, when you open the windows, you let in fresh air and birdsong. In winter, the garden turns into an oasis among the shackled cold of nature.

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CATO creative Ltd

18. Concise
See how the shades of the same color scheme look great. It is possible to provide voluminous planters for planting dwarf trees.

ATELIER DLV - Paysagiste concepteur

19. Emphasis on furniture
How to decorate a simple yard with a minimum of plants? Create a contrasting spot - put a bright dacha table with chairs and complement the composition with a sun umbrella to match the furniture or a neutral color.

OUTHOUSE design

20. Beneficial asymmetry
Organize a table for a dacha in the manner of a kitchen (with a corner bench). And behind the wall, fasten the pots asymmetrically and plant undersized plants. Decorative pillows will make the place more welcoming.

Read also ...
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SCOT MEACHAM Wood Design

21. Summer outfit
Choose a combined textile decoration: pillows, tablecloths, napkin and even street carpet. Such carpet products for the street are made from materials that are resistant to natural influences.

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Breakfast on the Grass: How to Organize Dining in the Middle of the Garden And the abundance of bright colors will add warmth to the atmosphere, and appetizing dishes.

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Tropical Paradise at your fingertips: Summer cottage resort

Architectural Gardens, Inc

23. Garden patchwork
The beauty of a summer dining room can often be found in the flooring. The owners of this garden chose bluish sandstone of different shades and collected a kind of “patchwork quilt” from it. Textile decor will help create an additional entourage.

Keith Baker Design Inc.

24. Utility hole
Drainage can be provided for concrete pavement. Place concrete slabs or pour concrete at a slight slope to where the drain hole will be located.

Duxbury Architects

25. Grass and Concrete
This dining room 'carpet' will require a lot of maintenance. But how impressive it looks!

TOTAL CONCEPTS

26. For lazy people
Fine gravel is a popular material for paths. It does not crack from temperature changes, does not require special care, and crumbs after a hearty dinner can be shaken off directly on it.

Kate Eyre Garden Design

Chris Snook

28. Cheap and cheerful
The photo shows a beautiful use of ordinary wooden stumps as garden stools. And plants can be planted in vyvarki.

Catherine Sandin

29. Wonderful view
Do you like to meet with a big group? Make a simple table, arrange folding chairs ... and even if the chandelier hanging from the tree is not connected, it will not spoil the beautiful view.

READ ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTOS…
Houzz France: A haven of tranquility near Versailles

30. Interior Exterior
A superb living-dining experience outside the home. Where without a fireplace with a clock?

The Cousins ​​

31. Let there be food!
An example of how simple lighting elements bring out the Scandinavian spirit of a summer dining room. And the inscriptions on the table give clear instructions for action.

Laura Larkin Interiors

32. Similarity of opposites
A dining arrangement can be built from two, at first glance, not matching garden sets. Here the seating area literally merged with the dining space.

Franck Minieri, Photographer

33. In contrast
Furniture that has been bleached or faded to a whitish color will look good against the backdrop of bright lush grass. Even if the trees have not yet turned green, and the fields have not swayed.

Luci.D Interiors

34. Lunch, coffee and lie down
A very honest example of a garden dining group, where there is not only a full dining table, but also a coffee table (with chairs that fit the size). A hammock acts as an indispensable sofa on the lawn.

Linn Gresham Haute Decor

35. Palace style
Aged stone and sun-bleached brick give this dining room a castle-like feel (if you want that effect, whitewash the wall and let the rain and wind do their thing).

Ashley Darryl Interiors

36. Not just rattan
Looking for durable and affordable furniture? Check out faux wicker dining chairs. Mass-dyed material resists fading in the sun longer.

37. Good old metal
Another option is chairs made of galvanized or powder-coated metal.

PAGE | DUKE Landscape Architects

38. Ecotheme
Dining chairs made from natural materials look more noble. But do not forget that their cost is an order of magnitude higher.

INSITU ARKITEKTER ApS

39. Virtually eternal plastic
Or try plastic garden chairs. In cloudy weather, it is more pleasant to sit on them than on a metal counterpart.

Audenza

40. So different
Feel free to combine chairs from different sets. This practice is very popular in interior design.

Mim Design

41. Shadow magic
Laser-cut perforated metal canopy can be used as a pergola. Think carefully about the perforation sketch ... it will be a regular grid or an openwork pattern that will play beautifully on the table in sunny weather.

The Cousins ​​

42. Comfortable Pergola
Try an open shed with a built-in bench located on one or more sides of the building.

Sander Design Landscape Architecture

43. Wild wild… grapes
Also known as girlish grapes. Enjoys great success with ordinary gardeners and landscape designers. They can decorate or mask certain areas of the garden. A great option for decorating a vertical garden. In spring, the shoots are densely covered with green foliage, and in autumn they turn into a noble crimson color.

44. Color matters
An example of how bright awnings and terracotta tiles warm up the dining table.

Terra Firma Design

45. Lounge area
There is no place to distinguish between recreation and outdoor dining? You can also sit at a low table. Try complementing your lovingly prepared meals with colorful plates and table linens.

Fawn Galli Interiors

46. Metamorphosis with little effort
See how colorful throw pillows can transform an outdoor space.

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More photos from this project

Matthew Bolt Graphic Design

They can also be used for afternoon naps. A simpler version is a plank attached to two ropes. Who among us did not swing on these in childhood?

Tiara Sun Development LLC

48. Green Carpet
Plant the dining area with lawn grass, roll up turf or a cheaper artificial option. And a piece of nature will delight your feet during cozy family gatherings.

Toledo Geller

49. Painting from greenery
If you decorate a wall with lawn grass, it will delight your eyes.

Growsgreen Landscape Design

50. Country Recycling
You can decorate the dining area with a motley fence. Do not throw away used boards, even if they have different colors, shapes and textures. Build a patchwork fence out of them.

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Jeni Lee

51. Brick, neon, etc.
The boom in popularity of the loft style was reflected in our selection. This option will appeal to lovers of industrial chic.

Bill Cope Design

52. Another Generation
Don't forget to set up multiple eating areas if you plan to have a party with adults and teenagers. Young people will feel more comfortable at a separate table with their own topics of conversation.

Sarah Natsumi Moore

53. All together
For the little ones in the cottage, set up a playground next to the summer canteen. So children under supervision will less distract you from friendly feasts.

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Dafne Vijande - decoración e interiorismo

54. Decorating with a playground
Another one. Also worth noting is the unusual sailing canopy. If you don’t have a sail and you use any plain water-repellent and sun-protective fabric for these purposes, then we suggest decorating it with a simple print. Use paint and a stencil with carved letters and patterns for these purposes.

CLB Architects

55. Open space
The simple architecture of the garden area will be a good addition to the simple design of the facade of the house.

iometro

56. Factory aesthetic
Introducing a bar version of the outdoor dining area. If you want to impress your guests, choose custom-made furniture.

Margot Hartford Photography

57. Easy to replicate
Spectacular, bright house front with matching garden furniture. Why not a country cottage?

READ ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO…
Houzz Holland: Vintage in a family home

Chris Snook

58. We are setting up a BBQ area. We advise you to supplement the decision with the photo with an umbrella in case of rain and bright sun.

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Chris Snook

Use an artificial lawn replacement to keep your lawn clean.

austin outdoor design

59. Bar features
Interesting finds for the bar counter. The support is complemented by a niche for towels, and a container for cooling bottles is equipped in the table top.

R Brant Design

60. Cooking for pleasure
During the warm season, country house owners like to cook in the summer kitchen. We offer a cozy option for organizing this space.

Alejandro C. - Fotografia de Interiores

61. Spirit of Spain
An example of a Mediterranean style summer kitchen. To protect from the sun and rain, we recommend installing a folding canopy.

Bondian Living Store

62. After a delicious meal
Siesta lovers can place a canopy bench in the dining area.

Ivy Lane Living

63. One to One
A beautiful combination of furniture frames and arched pergola. You can conveniently place pendant lighting above the dining table.

64. Nothing superfluous
Here is one of the options for a summer dining room, where a beautiful view of nature replaces any decor.

Williams Drake: Custom Homes I Renovation I Design

65. An indispensable assistant
Even with a sun canopy, we recommend installing a ceiling fan. Fortunately, models with a remote control are now being released.

Busy Bees Photography

66. When a birch is not only an image of Russia
And this is an example when the dining group contrasts with the facade of the house. Birch trees growing on the site will most organically complement such a color palette.

Bureau GN

67. Garden room
Light and airy design, perfect for outdoor home parties. And for the newlyweds - an analogue of a wedding tent, which then for many years to come will resemble wonderful moments.

SEE ALSO…
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Ridout Photography

68. The view is everything
A pair of chairs, a small table, a sun lounger and a breathtaking panorama overlooking the pond - isn't this the recipe for the perfect dining room.

Beccy Smart Photography

69. An explosion of color
This is the case when yellow “makes” the frame: the outdoor dining room is made up of simple furnishings, but thanks to the cheerful shade of the yolk, it looks very impressive.

Lovett Custom Homes

70. Christmas tree sticks
The chandelier above the dining table serves not only to illuminate a joint dinner. It can become an eye-catcher. We saw a similar branch miracle at the iM studio workshop. They use discarded Christmas trees to create their creations.

SEE ALSO
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Jensen Landschaftsarchitekten

71. Street Minimalism
Everything is simple, clear and concise here. It can be said that the eye rests.

Ashton Woods

72. The enemy will not pass
Install a mosquito net on the veranda or terrace to avoid feeding annoying insects.

Franck Minieri, Photographer

73. Don't be afraid to get dirty
A table with a beautifully designed top can be served without a tablecloth. Try laying out the countertop with ceramic tiles or mosaics yourself.

McMullan & Co.

74. What do we care about snow, what about heat…
A galvanized steel worktop is unaffected by any weather! But the wooden legs will require additional processing with protective equipment.

Henry Home Staging & Design

75. Crowded, but not offended
For a large company, you need to get a large table or a transforming table. Due to the side "wings" the number of guests can be increased from 4 to 10 (as in the photo). Modern manufacturers offer transformer models to accommodate 15 guests or more.

SHED Architecture & Design

76. Paint it and forget it
Build a permanent outdoor dining table and cover it with a protective compound. It will protect the wood from mold, rot and the effects of woodworm insects.

Claudia Vallentin Fotografie

77. Summer vacation
Afternoon gatherings can be continued in these hammocks.

Jeffrey Erb

78. Through the Looking Glass
Consider placing a mirror in a summer dining room. Females by default love this accessory. It will also help transform the geometry of the exterior space and “multiply” the greenery in this area.

David Johnston Architects

79. Nature is priceless
If you have this view from your veranda… forget about decor.

PAGE | DUKE Landscape Architects

80. Versailles Garden
Low-growing trimmed shrubs help to neatly enclose the dining area. And it is not necessary to have such a balustrade.

Jacob Hand Photography + Motion

81. Invigorating moisture
In warm weather, lunch at the fountain will be doubly enjoyable. It is desirable that the design of the fountain resonates with the overall landscape concept of the garden.

Malone's Landscape Design | Build

82. No fish here!
Or set up an outdoor dining area by an artificial pond. It can also be decorated with fountains.

Lise-Lotte Juul

83. On a permanent basis
For outdoor recreation with barbecue, you can make a stationary table and benches.

P.S. Note that the chairs here are made from tree trunks.

Andrés Arranz Fotografía

84. Shine a light here
An example of how good landscape lighting can set the mood for a romantic dinner.

Mother Interior

85. Phytodecor
Floral arrangements will do a great job of decorating a dining space. They can be placed in baskets, vintage suitcases, metal or wooden boxes.

Nifelle Design - Fine Interiors

86. Living stones
An alpine slide or a phytowall will give an additional charm to a summer dining room.

McGuire Furniture Company

88. How many centuries ago
Is there a beautiful tree on your property? So why not have dinner right under it? In this embodiment, the space under the giant was covered with mulch.

Heliotrope Architects

89. At one with nature
The open air dining area can provide a place for meditation.

Michael Yearout Photography

90. Paradise views
It is impossible not to show such beauty! It is important that the idea is easy to repeat - the flowers in the flowerpot are matched to match the textile accessories.

91. Pastel
A simple, sun-bleached tablecloth, matching seat cushions – trendy dusty shades are just as relevant in garden dining rooms as they are in residential interiors.

The same canteen - another shot: pay attention to the flags on the tree above the table!

Harrington Porter

Model Homestead » Site Archive » 8 Fabulous Outdoor Dining Ideas

Whether your outdoor space is an urban balcony or a sprawling, enviable ranch, outdoor dining is a welcome ritual in the warmer months. And turning your backyard or patio into a dining room requires very little effort. The goal is to create an outdoor dining area that is both comfortable and stylish.
Here are some helpful tips to get the most out of your outdoor dining area.

Consider locating your outdoor dining area
If your outdoor space is a balcony or other small space, you probably don't have much choice. More space means you'll have more options, although you'll want to consider a few important points before you place this table anywhere.
For starters, designing a suitable area for an outdoor dining table should be seen as an opportunity to create a space that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, rather than planning your lifestyle around the space. For example, if you like to have fun, you might want to gather everyone around a large dining table. But if it's just your family that will typically use the space, you can create a more intimate environment. Either way, make sure there is enough space for people to move around comfortably.

In addition, it is ideal to have an outdoor dining area close to the access point to your kitchen. Even if you have an open kitchen, you still have to take items from home. On the other hand, you don't want to place an outdoor table too close to the grill because of the heat and smoke.
It is worth noting that not all events can be held in the garden, there are reasons why it is better to gather friends and relatives in specialized institutions. It is these events that include commemorations. If you need to gather your relatives on such a sad occasion, cafe-pominki.ru will come to your aid. Here you will be helped to organize everything inexpensively and at the proper level.

Choose the right outdoor furniture
If you are considering purchasing new outdoor dining furniture, ask yourself the following questions before purchasing:
How many people will be using it? Suitable for your family, big family, lots of friends, etc. ?


Which shape do you prefer? Most tables are oval, round, rectangular or square. Make sure the shape you choose does not interfere with easy movement around the dining room.
Is the size right for your outdoor dining area? Large furniture can cramp a small space, while small furniture can look lost in a large space. Measure your dining room space before you go shopping for furniture.
Are you looking for comfort? If your dining chairs are going to be the main seating for your entire outdoor space, consider comfortable chairs with cushions. Chances are, you'll be sitting there for more than just eating.
Is there a style you want to match? You can match the exterior style and colors of your home with outdoor furniture for a cohesive look.
The design of your outdoor dining furniture ultimately comes down to personal preference. Remember that outdoor dining is informal in nature and there is no rule that the table and chairs must match. Sometimes an eclectic look turns out to be much more inviting and comfortable than a regular dining set. Many people are even looking for originality by buying inexpensive, quirky and vintage outdoor furniture.

Set the table
Depending on the occasion, you can get your table set up as formal as possible. Outdoor tablecloths are always a festive choice, and they can hide the imperfections of your dining table. Also, if you plan to dine al fresco often, it may be worth getting a set of reusable outdoor dishes. Dishes and glasses made of plastic or other durable material are ideal, as outdoor dining areas often see a lot of activity that can increase the chance of accidental falls.


Maximize view
If you live on a hilltop, the world below will look dazzling at night from an outdoor dining table. How about any views inside the courtyard itself? Do you have a lush garden or pond? Maybe your house has a lot of windows, and when it's softly lit at night, it looks great from the backyard. Find an outdoor dining area so you can enjoy the comforts of your own landscape.


Don't forget the atmosphere
The outdoor setting itself will provide most of the atmosphere, especially if you live in an area with beautiful scenery. Consider flowers as well as a garden around the dining room, especially if your home lacks greenery. You can also set up speakers to listen to music while you eat, as long as it's soft enough for guests to talk. And if you'll be dining in the dark, be sure to add outdoor lighting. Outdoor string lights are great for adding a warm glow that isn't too harsh to take away the beauty of a starry night.


Enjoy the pool
If your home has a well maintained pool with table space, the effect of dining by the pool (or any other body of water) can be soothing and elegant. Adding effects such as color-changing lights and poolside fountains can further enhance the quality of outdoor dining.

Provide Shade
You may have the most comfortable outdoor dining chairs, but if they're in the middle of a concrete desert patio and the sun is blazing, you won't enjoy it.

Learn more