Eating meals outdoors is one of the great pleasures of warmer weather, and a beautifully designed space only heightens the experience. Whether you prefer quiet family get togethers or expansive dinner parties, these 5 tips will help you make the most of your open air space, creating an experience you and your guests will never want to leave.
FURNITURE
Furniture should be functional, yet stylish. Select looks that compliment the interior style of your home, as this reinforces the concept that the outdoor area is simply an extension of the interior living space. From sleek teak designs to traditional wicker, the options are endless. A pro tip, instead of using matching sets of furniture, try featuring a combination of textures such as wicker, stone, and wood for a more relaxed, natural look.
GREENERY
Potted plants and flowers instantly add color, texture and charm to any space. Strategically placed greenery can also help define spaces and provide privacy within your outdoor space. Play around with different heights and plants with a variety of texture to create a cozy outdoor room
DECOR
For an outdoor dining area to function as a part of your home, consider decor and accessories that compliment the overall look and style of your interior. By choosing a similar colors and patterns, you can achieve an overall aesthetic that reflects the essence of your home’s interior. Outdoor area rugs are a great way to define space and add comfort while keeping things open. Also, be sure to offer the comfort of the indoors, outside. Choose comfortable pillows and offer light throws that invite your guests to relax and stay awhile.
LIGHTING
Dinner gatherings are likely to extend well past sundown, so one of the most impactful elements to an outdoor dining space, is the use of ambient lighting. A string of bistro lights along a nearby wall or twinkle lights strung from a pergola can add the perfect amount of intimate lighting. A chandelier or pair of lanterns hung over the table provide depth and character to the space, while hurricane lamps and strategically placed candles provide warmth and romance. Beautifully chosen sconces or gas lanterns on the home near the doorway provide style and function as they help light up the entry to the home.
DETAILS
Finally, when it comes to an unforgettable al fresco dining experience, the final details are more than just details. A nearby bar cart or serving space set up for the convenience of you and your guests allows you to maximize your time spent together and less time back and forth to the kitchen.
For the tablescape, flowers, candles, and beautifully displayed food add to the character of your gathering. Smart setting combinations, such as shatterproof goblets paired with the luxury of linen napkins, your indoor plates and good silverware can elevate the overall experience, while minimizing the risk of an accidental cleanup as guests relax and mingle.
