Creating your ideal outdoor dining area

March 25, 2023

When the weather is nice, many of us start to dream of outdoor dining with family and friends. Whether it's a lazy weekend brunch, a midweek dinner or an evening gathering under the stars, a well-designed outdoor dining area can elevate your experience and make it all the more memorable.

In this blog post, we'll share some outdoor dining area ideas on how to create your ideal outdoor dining area, from choosing the right location and furniture to adding lighting and décor.

The Classic Teak Bench

How to create an outdoor dining area

Choose the right location

The first great outdoor dining area backyard idea is to select the right location. You want a spot that is convenient, comfortable and has good lighting. Here are some things to consider when choosing the perfect spot:

Proximity to the kitchen: You want your outdoor dining area to be close to the kitchen or grill so that you can easily transport food, drinks and dishes.
Comfort: Look for a spot that is sheltered from the wind and has shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Lighting: Consider the natural light and how it changes throughout the day. You may want to add artificial lighting to ensure that your dining area is well-lit in the evening.

Add lighting

Another great outdoor dining area garden idea is to add lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It also allows you to enjoy your meals well into the evening. Here are some lighting ideas for your outdoor dining area:

String lights: String lights are a simple and affordable way to add ambience to your dining area. Hang them around the perimeter of your space or drape them over a pergola or umbrella.
Lanterns: Lanterns can add a rustic touch to your dining area and provide a soft, warm glow. Place them on the table or around the perimeter of your space.
Spotlights: Spotlights can be used to highlight specific areas of your dining area, such as a centrepiece or a piece of artwork.

Add décor

Adding décor to your outdoor dining area can infuse the space with personality and style, making it feel like an extension of your home. Here are some decor ideas for an outdoor dining area:

Table settings: Dress up your table with a tablecloth, placemats and coordinating dishes and glassware.
Centrepieces: A simple floral arrangement or a bowl of fruit can make a beautiful centrepiece for your table.
Plants: Plants can add colour and texture to your outdoor dining area and help to create a sense of privacy and intimacy.
Outdoor rugs: An outdoor rug can define your dining area and add a pop of colour.

Choose the right furniture

The next step is to choose the right furniture for your outdoor dining area. Woodbury has a wide range of quality furniture in Sydney that is comfortable, durable and can withstand the elements.

Here are some things to consider when shopping for your outdoor furniture:

Material: Look for furniture made from materials that can hold up to the elements. One great example is teak. Woodbury uses top-grade reclaimed teak, as well as durable aluminium, to produce all its outdoor furniture.
Comfort: Chairs and other seating solutions must be comfortable to sit in for extended periods of time. You can use cushions for added comfort.
Size: Make sure that the furniture you choose fits in the space you have available. You don't want a table that is too big or chairs that are too bulky.

Small outdoor dining area ideas

If you have a small outdoor space, you can still create a cosy and inviting dining area. Here are some ideas for a small outdoor dining area:

Bench seating: A built-in bench along one side of your dining area can provide seating without taking up too much space.
Vertical garden: A vertical garden can add colour and texture to your outdoor dining area without taking up floor space.
Multifunctional furniture: Look for furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a bench that doubles as a storage unit and folding chairs and tables that can be easily stored when not in use.
Lighting fixtures and wall accents: Hang string lights or artwork on the walls to add visual interest and create a cosy atmosphere.

With a little creativity and some thoughtful design ideas, you can have a beautiful outdoor dining area no matter how small the space is.

Linden Bench Setting in Teak

Create your ideal outdoor dining area with Woodbury

Woodbury's range of outdoor settings is known for its quality, durability and natural beauty. When building an outdoor space to accommodate you and your loved ones, Woodbury is the place to go for furniture you can rely on. Our collection includes outdoor chairs, outdoor tables, outdoor benches and loungers that can complement a variety of styles and themes.

Discover our collection today or reach out to our helpful team if you need more outdoor dining area ideas and advice for your backyard, patio or garden.