One of the best ways to upgrade any garden space is to add a high-quality dining and entertaining space to your outdoors. However, if you want to really make the most of that space, then you need to give it a little extra attention to detail and design touches that make it extra attractive and extra functional. Here, we’re going to look at some of those touches and why they make such a big difference.
Start With A Deck Or Patio
A solid foundation makes for a great garden dining space, and typically this means a deck or a patio. These surfaces provide a level, stable area for furniture and ensure that the dining zone feels intentional and well-defined. A timber deck offers warmth and natural beauty, blending seamlessly with the greenery, while stone or composite patios provide durability and low maintenance. Make sure that the space is large enough to fit your table, chairs, as well as any extras like a barbecue or serving station that you might want to add.
Define Those Boundaries
If you want the space to really feel like its own exterior room, rather than just a part of the garden, then setting some boundaries can help. Aside from making it feel like a more intentionally designed space, a wire balustrade can also offer great safety, especially if your patio or decking is raised and might otherwise be a tripping hazard. They provide a little protection while still maintaining an open and airy feel to the dining space. For ground-level patios, low hedges, planters, or edging stones can create a sense of enclosure without overwhelming the design. These boundaries help to separate dining from other activities in the garden.
Keep It Out Of The Weather
The weather can be one of your biggest obstacles to using your outdoor dining space as much as you would like, but it doesn’t always have to be quite so pervasive. The right shelter can make your space much more usable across the seasons. A pergola or canopy creates shade in summer, while retractable awnings and parasols offer flexible coverage depending on conditions. For rain protection, consider polycarbonate roofing or waterproof sail shades, which allow light through while keeping the area dry.
The Right Furniture Is Key
Much of your dining experience is going to be defined by your choice of furniture. You need to make sure that it matches the aesthetic style that you want, while providing comfort and being practical for use outdoors. Opt for durable, weather-resistant materials such as teak, aluminum, or rattan to withstand outdoor conditions. Cushioned chairs or benches enhance comfort, and you want to make sure that your table is big enough to host at least your household, if not providing space for a few more people. Having stackable chairs with removable cushions also makes it easy to tidy the furniture away when you might want a little more space.
Having a great, usable outdoor dining space can really make a big difference when the warm months roll around. You’ll feel much more incentivized to spend time outdoors with the tips above.
