When the weather is nice, there’s nothing better than dining outdoors! If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are eleven ideas for outdoor dining areas that will work for any garden size or purpose. If you are working with a small garden don’t miss the last section about design tips for small gardens.
What to consider
When planning an outdoor dining space, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to choose the right garden furniture. Outdoor dining tables and chairs come in a variety of materials, from wood to wicker to metal. Consider the climate in your area and choose furniture that will withstand the elements.
Another important consideration is size. How much space do you have to work with? If you’re limited on space, consider a small table and chairs or a bench-style dining set. If you have more room, you can go bigger with a larger table and more chairs.
Finally, think about how you want to use your outdoor dining area. If you entertain often, you’ll want a space that’s large enough to accommodate your guests. If you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience, a smaller space may be better suited for your needs.
Without any further ado, here are our top eleven ideas for creating a picturesque outdoor dining area.
1. Turn your greenhouse into a dining room
If you have a greenhouse, you may be wondering what to do with it during the winter. One option is to use it as a dining space! You can heat it up or leave it unheated, depending on the weather. This is a great option if you want to enjoy a nice meal outdoors but don’t want to deal with the cold.
2. Use a Pergola for style and shade
If you have a pergola in your garden, why not use it as a dining area? You can arrange seating under the arches for a cozy, intimate meal. This is a great option if you want to enjoy the outdoors but don’t want the sun shining in your eyes.
3. Add an outdoor kitchen for a touch of luxury
Adding an outdoor kitchen to your garden is a great way to enjoy dining outdoors year-round. You can cook your food right outside, and then enjoy eating it in the fresh air. This is a great option if you love to cook and want to enjoy your meals outdoors.
4. Put your garden shed to work
If you don’t have a lot of space in your garden, you can use a garden shed as a dining area. This is a great option if you want to enjoy the outdoors but don’t want to be in the sun or the rain. You can set up a table and chairs inside the shed, or you can use it as a covered patio area.
5. Add a canopy or garden umbrella
If you want to create a shaded dining area in your garden, you can add a canopy. This is a great option if you want to enjoy the outdoors but don’t want to deal with the sun shining in your eyes.
You can choose a canopy that matches the style of your garden, or you can choose a fun and colorful canopy to add some personality.
6. Use your arbour creatively
If you want to create a garden dining area that is both pretty and functional, you can use a garden arbour. This is a great option if you want to create a shaded area in your garden.
You can use an arbour to create a covered patio area, or you can use it as a gateway to your garden dining area.
7. Decking dining areas
If you’re looking for a garden dining area that is both stylish and practical, you can deck an area of your garden. Decking is a great option because it is durable and weatherproof.
You can choose a color and style that will complement your garden, or you can choose a decking material that will match your outdoor furniture.
8. Paved dining areas
Paving is a great way to create a stylish base for your outdoor dining area. There are many different types of paving to choose from, so you can find the perfect option for your garden. Paving is also a durable material, so it will withstand the rigours of outdoor dining.
9. Light it up
Fairy lights are a great way to add ambience to your outdoor dining area in the evening. They can be used to create a festive atmosphere or simply to create a relaxing mood.
Fairy lights are also a great way to make your outdoor dining area look more inviting.
10. Add fabric curtains
Adding curtains to your pergola is a great way to dress up your outdoor dining area and make it feel more special.
Whether you choose a lightweight fabric for warm summer evenings or a heavier fabric for cooler days, draperies can really add a touch of elegance to your garden dining experience. Plus, they can provide some much-needed shade on a hot day.
If you’re looking for a way to take your outdoor dining to the next level, consider adding some curtains!
11. Reinvent garden furniture
An old palate makes a great garden table! Not only is it sturdy and weather-resistant, but it also adds a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor dining area.
You can either use it as is or give it a coat of paint to match your décor. If you have an old palate lying around, put it to good use as a garden table!
Designs for small gardens
Small outdoor spaces can be a challenge to decorate – but with the right garden furniture and dining set-up, it can be just as inviting as a larger one. If you’re looking for some ideas on how to make the most of your small outdoor area, take a look at these tips:
1. Opt for garden furniture that can do double duty
2. Create a focal point with your garden furniture
3. Make use of vertical space
4. Use light colours to make the space appear larger
5. Bring the indoors out with covered outdoor dining
With these tips in mind, you can turn your small outdoor space into a stylish and inviting entertaining area. Garden furniture that can do double duty, such as a garden bench that doubles as a coffee table or garden stools that can be used as side tables. Creating a focal point with your garden furniture will also help to make the space feel more inviting – try grouping together a few chairs around a fire pit or placing a large outdoor rug under your garden table.
Making use of vertical space is another great way to maximise a small outdoor area. Hang garden lights or planters from your fence or balcony, or use shelves to store garden tools or outdoor cushions. Using light colours for your garden furniture and accessories will also help to make the space appear larger – try whites, creams and light blues to create a bright and airy feel.
If you want to take your outdoor dining to the next level, consider investing in a covered outdoor dining area. This will allow you to enjoy meals outdoors even when the weather isn’t ideal. Covered outdoor dining areas can be as simple as a garden canopy or pergola, or as luxurious as an outdoor kitchen with a built-in BBQ. No matter what your budget is, there’s sure to be a covered outdoor dining option that’s perfect for you.
Choosing garden furniture
When choosing garden furniture for your dining area, be sure to choose pieces that are durable and weatherproof. You don’t want to have to worry about your furniture rusting or rotting when the rain starts to fall. Be sure to choose colors and styles that will complement your garden.
There you have it! 11 inspiring ideas to create a picturesque dining space in your own garden, plus a bonus tip on choosing garden furniture.
For ideas on how to decorate your garden, check out this article
