There’s nothing quite like eating outdoors. We call it dining al fresco, and it’s one of the best parts of living in a beautiful country like Australia. Imagine: a warm evening, a gentle breeze, and a delicious meal shared with friends or family right in your own backyard. It’s magic!
But to get this perfect experience, you need the perfect outdoor dining setting. This isn’t just about having a table and chairs. It’s about creating a whole space—a little outdoor room where you love to spend time.
In this massive guide, we’re going to walk you through everything. We’ll cover how to choose the right furniture, how to make the space comfy and stylish, and how to keep it looking great for years. Get ready to transform your patio, deck, or garden into the ultimate spot for dining outdoors!
Choosing the Right Outdoor Dining Furniture
The heart of your outdoor dining setting is the furniture. It needs to be strong enough to handle the Aussie weather but also look good and feel comfy. When you’re looking for outdoor dining furniture, you have a few big choices to make.
1. Materials Matter
The material of your furniture is super important because it faces the sun, the rain, and maybe even a bit of hail.
- Timber (Wood): Things like teak or eucalyptus look classic and lovely. They are strong and last a long time, but they do need a bit of oiling every now and then to keep them from looking dry or grey.
- Wicker/Rattan: This material gives a beautiful, relaxed holiday feel. Modern wicker is usually made from a synthetic (fake) material that is tough and easy to clean. It’s often used in high-end patio dining furniture.
- Aluminium: This is lightweight, rust-proof, and very modern. You can move it easily, and it requires almost no work to keep clean. It’s a very popular choice, especially for the kind of tough, durable pieces you might see as hotel furniture Australia.
- Plastic/Resin: This is often the cheapest option. It’s good if you need something very basic or temporary, but it might not last as long in harsh sun.
2. Size and Shape
Think about how many people you usually feed.
- Small Spaces: If you have a small balcony or courtyard, a two- or four-seater outdoor dining setting with a small, round table is perfect. Round tables take up less room and make it easy to chat.
- Medium Spaces: A standard rectangular or oval table that seats six is the most popular choice. This is great for most families.
- Big Spaces/Entertaining: If you love big BBQs and parties, look for long tables that seat eight, ten, or even twelve people. Some tables can be extended for extra guests, which is super handy!
Factors to Consider for an Ideal Outdoor Dining Setting
Before you even buy that table, you need to think about where it will go and what you need around it.
1. Location, Location, Location
Where is the best spot for your dining outdoors area?
- The Deck or Patio: This is the most common place. It’s usually close to the kitchen, which makes carrying food out easy.
- Under a Pergola or Verandah: This gives you instant shade and protection from a sudden rain shower.
- The Garden Lawn: A lovely spot, but make sure the ground is flat! You don’t want wobbly chairs or spilled drinks. If it’s on the lawn, consider a stable base like pavers or timber decking.
2. Protection from the Sun
The sun can be harsh in Australia. You need shade for a comfortable experience.
- Umbrellas: A large, cantilever (side-pole) umbrella is a great investment. It can be moved to block the sun as it shifts throughout the day.
- Awnings/Sails: A permanent shade structure like an awning or a shade sail looks great and offers reliable protection.
3. Flooring Matters
What’s under your feet?
- Timber Decking: Looks warm and classic.
- Paving Stones/Tiles: Easy to clean and very durable.
- Concrete: Simple and tough, but can look a bit plain. A nice outdoor rug can fix that!
Design Tips for a Stylish Outdoor Dining Area
Your outdoor dining setting should look just as good as your indoor dining room. Here are some simple al fresco dining ideas to make it shine.
1. Pick a Theme
A theme helps everything look neat and finished.
- Coastal Cool: Think white, light blue, and driftwood grey. Use natural textures and materials.
- Tropical Oasis: Use bright greens, bold patterns, and lush plants around the area.
- Modern Minimalist: Choose sleek, dark, or metal outdoor dining furniture. Keep the decoration simple and clean. Many pieces of hotel furniture follow this modern, clean-line look.
2. Don’t Forget the Accessories
Accessories bring personality and style.
- Cushions and Throws: Outdoor cushions are a must for comfort and colour. Choose materials that are quick-drying and fade-resistant. A nice throw blanket is perfect for when the evening gets a little cool.
- Table Settings: Use fun, unbreakable outdoor plates and glasses. Melamine or bamboo plates look fantastic and won’t shatter if they hit the ground.
- Centrepieces: A simple bowl of fresh fruit, a lovely plant, or a cluster of candles makes a great centrepiece.
Maximising Comfort for Outdoor Dining
If the space isn’t comfortable, no one will want to use it! Comfort is the key to enjoying your outdoor dining setting.
1. Seating Comfort
- Cushions are King: Even the nicest timber or metal chair needs a good seat cushion. Look for cushions that have thick, dense foam.
- Armrests: A chair with an armrest is much more relaxing than one without. Guests can lean back and enjoy the meal without worrying about where to put their hands.
- Space: Make sure there is enough room between chairs so people aren’t bumping elbows. A crowded table is an uncomfortable table!
2. Keeping the Bugs Away
Unfortunately, where there is food, there are sometimes flies and mozzies.
- Citronella: Candles, coils, or torches with citronella oil help keep mosquitos away.
- Fans: A small outdoor fan can help create a breeze that keeps flying insects at bay.
- Covers: For big parties, have some food covers (mesh domes) ready to place over salads and desserts.
3. Easy Access
Make sure your patio dining furniture is easy to get in and out of. Don’t have things blocking the path. If you’re carrying a hot plate of food, the last thing you want is an obstacle course!
Lighting and Ambience for Evening Dining
Dining outdoors at night is magical, but only with the right light. Good lighting creates a warm, welcoming, and safe atmosphere.
1. Layered Lighting
You need a few types of light for the best look.
- Task Lighting (Where you eat): This is the main light over the table. A hanging pendant light (designed for outdoors, of course!) or fairy lights strung above the area work well. You need enough light to see your food!
- Ambient Lighting (The mood): This sets the mood. Think soft light from lanterns, pillar candles in glass containers, or even solar-powered lights placed in nearby garden beds.
- Feature Lighting (To look good): Spotlights aimed at a beautiful tree, a water feature, or even the wall of your house. This adds depth to the space.
2. Fire and Warmth
In the cooler months, a little heat goes a long way.
- Fire Pits: These are wonderful for a campfire feel after dinner, but make sure they are safe and far from overhanging branches.
- Outdoor Heaters: Gas or electric patio heaters are fantastic for keeping everyone warm so the party can last a bit longer!
Seasonal Considerations for Outdoor Dining
Australians use their outdoor areas all year round, but the way you use your outdoor dining setting will change with the seasons.
1. Summer Fun
This is the peak time for your patio dining furniture.
- Hydration: Always have cool water easily available.
- Shade: As mentioned, shade is non-negotiable for lunch and early dinner.
- Waterproof: A sudden summer storm is common. Make sure cushions can be quickly brought inside or are fully waterproof.
2. Winter Warmth
Don’t pack it away!
- Heaters and Fire: Use your outdoor heaters to make the space cosy.
- Rug: An outdoor rug is a great way to warm up the space and make it feel more like an indoor room.
- Hearty Food: Switch from salads to slow-cooked roasts and stews—perfect comfort food for dining outdoors on a cooler night.
Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Dining Furniture
You’ve invested in a beautiful outdoor dining setting, maybe even strong, durable pieces like quality hotel furniture Australia uses. Now you need to look after it! Good maintenance means your furniture will last for many years.
1. Routine Cleaning
- General: Once a month, wipe down all surfaces with a mild soap and warm water. A soft cloth or brush is best. Rinse it well with a hose.
- Timber: If your timber is looking a bit dull, give it a light sand and apply a coat of outdoor furniture oil (like decking oil). This brings the colour back to life.
- Metal/Aluminium: These are the easiest! Just a quick wipe down. If you see any small scratches, a touch-up paint kit can stop rust before it starts.
2. Protecting from the Weather
- Covers: A simple, waterproof furniture cover is a great idea. Just throw it over the setting when you know you won’t be using it for a while, like during a week of heavy rain.
- Storage: If you have the space, stackable chairs or folding tables can be stored in the shed or garage during the very worst weather.
3. Dealing with Mould
Sometimes, especially in humid areas, you might get a bit of mould or mildew. A mix of water and a little bit of white vinegar can usually clean it right up. Always test a small spot first!
Conclusion
Creating the perfect outdoor dining setting is an exciting project. It’s about more than just buying a table—it’s about crafting a special place where memories are made.
By choosing the right outdoor dining furniture, considering comfort and style with great al fresco dining ideas, and looking after your investment, you will build a space you love.
So, grab a cold drink, fire up the BBQ, and get ready to enjoy the best of the Aussie lifestyle. Your perfect dining outdoors experience starts now!
Call to Action
Ready to upgrade your backyard?
- Visit Your Local Furniture Store: Head out and sit in some patio dining furniture! Nothing beats seeing and feeling the quality in person.
- Check Out Premium Suppliers: For quality that lasts, look at suppliers of commercial hotel furniture—they sell pieces designed to last a lifetime.
- Get Started Today: Even a few new cushions and a string of fairy lights can transform your existing space!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is it worth buying expensive outdoor dining furniture?
A: Yes, absolutely! Cheaper furniture often doesn’t last a single Aussie summer. Quality outdoor dining furniture (like the kind used for hotel furniture Australia) is made with better materials that resist UV rays and rust, so it will look good for 5-10 years, making it a much better long-term investment.
Q2: How do I stop birds from making a mess on my outdoor dining setting?
A: The best thing is to use a waterproof cover when you’re not using the setting. If you have a permanent overhead structure like a pergola, you might consider attaching some netting or spikes to stop birds from nesting right above your table.
Q3: What is ‘al fresco dining’?
A: “Al fresco” is an Italian phrase that simply means “in the cool air.” When we talk about al fresco dining ideas or dining al fresco, we just mean eating a meal outside.
Q4: Should I bring my cushions inside every night?
A: If your cushions are “fully waterproof” (meaning they use marine-grade fabric and water-resistant foam), you don’t have to. But for all standard outdoor cushions, it’s a good idea to put them in a dry spot or a cushion box. It keeps them clean, dry, and stops them from fading from the morning sun.
Q5: Can I mix and match different styles of outdoor dining furniture?
A: Yes, you can! This is a great way to add personality. For example, you could have a modern aluminium table and pair it with lovely, rustic wooden chairs. Just make sure there is one thing that connects the pieces, like the colour of the chair legs or the style of the cushions. It helps to keep the look balanced.
