Dine al fresco at home this summer

25.05.18

There’s nothing we enjoy more than dining outside on warm summer evenings. And there’s no better place than in the comfort of your own garden. Whether you have a rooftop terrace, small patio garden or are lucky enough to have a large country garden, here are some alfresco dining ideas to transform your garden and make it the perfect place to entertain, dine and relax this summer.

Create an outdoor kitchen

Take al fresco dining to a new level by adding an outdoor cooking station to your garden. There are plenty of things to consider when creating garden kitchen. You will need something to cook with of course, perhaps a barbecue or wood fired oven, and a worksurface for food preparation is always a great idea. 
 
We can design and build outdoor kitchen units to suit any garden or terrace, whether you are just looking to cook outside, or you want space to prepare, cook and serve, we can provide a solution that compliments your garden scheme. Contact us on 01255 688 361 to discuss your requirements.  
 
 
Invest in your outdoor furniture 
 
If you want your garden furniture to last, we recommend investing in the best quality your budget will allow. Hardwood has its own natural preservatives and will last for years with no further treatment required. Choose single chairs or wooden benches for your table or mix and match benches one side and chairs the other for an eclectic style. 
 
If you’re hosting a children’s party or have a tight budget, then plastic garden furniture is a great option. It is lightweight so can be moved around if required.  It is also easy to clean and there’s also no chance of it rusting, however it will degrade over time and is not as sturdy and timber. 
 
Synthetic rattan has become increasingly popular over the years, woven around light rustproof aluminium frames, it has the same benefits as plastic furniture but creates a more stylish and sophisticated look. 
 
If you prefer a traditional appearance, then metal garden furniture is an excellent choice. Aluminium furniture is lightweight and long lasting; however, you may want to look out for metal furniture that has a UV-resistant powder-coated finish to prevent oxidation on the surface. 

Add comfort to your dining area

Adding cushions and blankets to wooden or iron furniture adds comfort and individuality to your dining area. Choose colours to compliment your garden scheme and match your tableware. Select bright summer colours such as greens and yellows for a vibrant feel or greys and white for a sophisticated but modern style. 
 

Set the mood with lighting and warmth

Fixed lighting and heaters for patios and seating areas are a must to stay comfortable outdoors after the sun has set. From spike lights, to downlighters and uplighters, there is a vast range of lighting options to suit any garden. Cleverly positioned lighting and subtle lighting such as floor lanterns and tealights create an intimate atmosphere. 
 
For those chilly evenings, a patio or table heater, or a chiminea generate heat quickly and warm up the surrounding areas keeping your guests warm and comfortable. 

Coordinate with colour

Colour coordinating your furniture and accessories will give your garden a stylish and consistent look. Combine subtle greys and pale greens on fencing, trellis and furniture with coordinated or contrasting cushions, blankets and tableware . 

Add style

Adding stylish touches to your outdoor dining area will make your garden a more enjoyable place and provide your guests with design inspiration for their own scheme. Add painted decorative trellis to the surrounding areas in conjunction with climbing plants for a colourful look. Adding mirrors to small, intimate gardens will create the illusion, that your is more spacious. Create focal points using interesting water features. A simple birdbath to bring nature into your garden, or wow your guests with a running water fountain, perfect for relaxation relaxing tropical feel.
 
 
If you’d like to discuss your garden furniture requirements, then please contact us on 01255 688 361 or request a quote
 

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