HOME + GARDEN
WINDSOR GREY SQUARE DINING TABLE & STACKING ARMCHAIRS, BRIDGMAN GARDEN ENTERTAINING BAR, OKA
1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SPOT
The best outdoor dining spaces need to feel sheltered yet open to your main garden space. Look for an area that catches the sun but also offers protection from the wind. Patios, terraces and decks are of course obvious choices, but no two ends of the same deck are the same, so consider privacy from neighbours or adjoining paths, where catches the most rays, and proximity to the indoors too( not only for carrying food and refreshments, but for any weather-related dashes to shelter too!). If you don’ t have a natural deck space, a flat lawn can work just as well with the addition of an outdoor rug and arbour to define the space.
2. INVEST IN COMFORTABLE, DURABLE FURNITURE
As in any indoor dining room, your table and seating form the heart of your outdoor dining space. Choose materials that can handle the British weather such as teak, powder-coated metal or all-weather rattan. A generous table encourages relaxed dining, while comfortable chairs with cushions will aid lounging time. It’ s better to opt for the best you can afford in a mainstay neutral and then mix up yearly style with new cushions and throws for maximum style and sustainability.
3. CREATE SHADE AND SHELTER
There’ s something about an early English summer’ s day that catches even the most prepared off guard with the sun’ s intensity. Even on‘ just-warm’ days, a little shelter will make your outdoor dining more comfortable. A large parasol, pergola or retractable awning provides shade during sunny afternoons, as well as a cosy sense of enclosure as dusk falls. Climbing plants such as wisteria or jasmine can soften permanent structures( or can be planted in pots with trellis for temporary spaces) as well as adding natural fragrance to the space.
4. LAYER LIGHTING FOR EVENING ATMOSPHERE
As the sun sets, outdoor lighting will not only enhance your dining mood but also offer practical solutions for nighttime alfresco feasting. Festoon lighting brings an instant celebratory vibe and lanterns a chilled relaxed tone, while candles offer evening romance and a practical aid to pests if fragranced with citronella. Splurge on outdoor IP-rated fixtures softened with rattan shades for natural style and pair with solar stake lights to gently illuminate pathways while avoiding trailing wires.
5. CONSIDER CLEVER STORAGE
Outdoor living quickly comes with extras such as cushions, throws, portable lamps and tableware. A dedicated garden storage bench or weatherproof box will not only keep everything close to hand but also protected from the elements, too.
6. BRING THE KITCHEN OUTDOORS
Keep entertaining easy by placing a small side table, drinks trolley or station nearby. A tray of chilled drinks, a jug of homemade lemonade or a basket of fresh breads and fruits will allow guests to help themselves while you prep bigger feasts. If space allows, a barbeque or outdoor cooking area will complete your dining space- just ensure that they are practically positioned to keep food warm while avoiding the dreaded smoke blowing over.
7. ADD WARMTH FOR COOLER EVENINGS
Even in summer, evenings can cool quickly. Outdoor throws, cushions and a firepit or patio heater will help keep guests comfortable and extend your dining time well into the night- perfect for some Kentish stargazing.
8. BRING YOUR OWN STYLE
In the same way that you would curate your indoor spaces, do the same for your outdoor table. Be trend-led this summer with bold patterns, coastal blues or Bridgerton florals, or invest for the future with natural touches such as linen tablecloths, stoneware plates and woven placemats. Keep centrepieces simple with freshly cut herbs, wildflowers or small potted plants to feel connected with your garden and add a seasonal touch.
www. insidekent. co. uk • 171