Summer is the time for picnics in the grass, BBQ parties, and late afternoon lunches by the pool. So, if you haven’t really spent too much time thinking about using your outdoor space for dining now is the time. Here are some tips for putting together the perfect outdoor dining pace that you can enjoy on those sunny summer days, and warm summer nights.
Size of the Table
If you’re eating outside, the obvious piece you need for your space is a table. If you have a small backyard, or even a balcony space, then the size of your table is almost decided for you with maybe a little wiggle room. Figure out the size of table you need, and will fit your space, and then start looking for what will fit the area you have. Keep in mind you will also need to fit chairs around the table, and have room for people to move and walk around the space.
Table Placement
If you have a deck or patio really close to the doors of your home, it will probably make sense to put the table close to that area. If you have a big space, and maybe an outdoor kitchen, you might have a little more flexibility as to where to put the table. To make the flow of your space work, placing your table close to the kitchen, or BBQ, will make it easy when serving and preparing meals.
Number of People
This is especially important when picking a table, although if you have a smaller outdoor space you might be limited as to how many people your table can fit. If you have some flexibility, though, decide how many people you’re normally going to have around your table at one time. If you don’t have any children and only have a few people over a time, a table that fits 12 people might not make sense for you. Thinking about the parties and dinners you plan to have will help you decide what is right for you.
Set up Shade
Depending on the set up of your backyard, you might want to consider adding a patio cover or a gazebo. By adding shade to your outdoor dining space you will find you can enjoy your outdoor dining area at all times of the day. Without shade, the sun may make you space too hot and you’re losing out on some of the best times to enjoy the outdoors.
Create an Experience
Do you enjoy throwing Saturday afternoon BBQs, or are you more into intimate and quiet dinners? Whatever your ideal environment looks like, create your outdoor space to mirror your tastes. Think about adding strings of lights, or maybe an outdoor sound system. These small touches will definitely make a big difference, and your guests will notice it.
No matter what the size of your outdoor space is, you can find fantastic dining tables to suit your taste and budget. Dining outside is definitely a benefit of the beautiful, warm weather so take advantage of the season and enjoy the outdoors!
