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Having a backyard or a patio is a wonderful thing. You can spend some time outside and still be in the comfort of your home. However, most people don’t really step outside when it comes to dining. Do you have a spacious backyard and feel like using it properly? Maybe you want to add some furniture that would allow you to relax, eat and chill with your loved ones?
Creating an outdoor dining area is a great way to finally start using this place. And today, the market offers you to choose different types of outdoor dining furniture. Exterior design is as important as interior design, but there are some factors that you should keep in mind. If you aren’t sure about what pieces of furniture you might need, let’s check the following lines.
Type of Space
The main question here is what is your outdoor area like? If you have a backyard lawn, perhaps you’d want to get a suitable hardwood deck so your outdoor dining furniture would be levelled and placed in a flat surface. Uneven grounds require self-levelling table legs (in case you don’t want a hardwood deck). If there is a swimming pool in your backyard, we recommend you to get furniture with fast-drying cushions.
Surroundings
Before you make any purchases, it’s essential to check the surroundings. Are there are any trees in your backyard? If there are no trees, then you’d have to get sun umbrellas to prevent yourself from the harmful UV rays while chilling or dining outside. If your backyard isn’t secluded, you might want to get a fence (in case you want to create a more private space).
Dimensions & Flow
Measuring the space is one of the most important things to do before getting your outdoor furniture. The last thing you want to do is order your outdoor sitting only to find out that it’s too big once it arrives. Many people think what’s the big deal, it’s a backyard, any size would fit. Be sure to see the picture in your head. Check the usable space, plan where you’ll place the furniture so the traffic will flow easily. If your backyard or patio is oddly shaped, we suggest you pick smaller pieces.
Types of Patio Furniture
Before you get your patio furniture, ask yourself one important question – what is the weather like in your area? The weather is a crucial factor for your furniture. Keep in mind the rain, sunshine, wind and the general climate. Don’t get light furniture if your climate is windy and pick coated metal if it’s rainy so it won’t rust in the blink of an eye. And for the sunny days, make sure you place your furniture under a good shadow, so the colours don’t fade out.
What Material to Pick
Materials mainly depend on the weather, location and your use. We can’t say that one material is the best; some are better than others. For instance, if the climate in your area is super hot, it can cause untreated woods to chip. Plastic furniture may become brittle and crack when the weather gets cold. Salt air and rain work like a charm when you pick uncoated metal (it will rust in no time). So, the combination of weather and the place where you’ll position your outdoor furniture will dictate longevity.
Accessories
We all know that things are always better with a few accessories. Decorative items will only enhance your good time while you enjoy your meals outside. Let’s check what accessories will provide you with an even better outdoor dining experience.
Outdoor Umbrellas & Shades
If your backyard or patio doesn’t have enough shade, you should get sun protection. The ultraviolet rays are terrible for your skin, but besides that, the glare can damage your eyes as well. We’re sure you won’t be able to endure sitting outside for longer than fifteen minutes if there is no proper shade. You can get an outdoor umbrella or shade that will cover the whole sitting area.
Pillows
When it comes to the small things, pillows should be on the top of your list. Not only they will accent your furniture, but will also make it cozier for sitting. You can get pillows in any shape and colour you want (and even get various models to fit every season). Since you will use them outside, make sure you pick quick-drying foam and covers. Also, make sure that the covers are fade-resistant.
Fire Pits
A fire pit not only adds for ambience, but it also has a very practical usage. Sure, you won’t think of using it in the summer days, but, once the chillier months arrive, and you light the fire in the pit, things will be different. This way you won’t limit your time lounging outside only in the warm months. Traditional fires burn wood or propane, but you can get advanced options that use natural gas or bioethanol which is smokeless (ideal if you have inadequate ventilation or don’t want to install a chimney.
Lights
The lights will be the cherry on top when it comes to decorating your backyard or patio. Your string lights or garden lanterns can create a magical ambience. They are ideal to add some light over the table and enjoy a drink or two with your friends and family. You can get tall lamps or overhead lighting, but don’t forget that pathway lighting can make the place look extraordinary as well. Let your creativity come to play; you can use Tiki torches or ground level lamps. For the holiday season, don’t forget to add your string lights on the trees, above the dining area, or around any columns. In fact, you don’t even have to wait for the holiday season to add your favourite string lights.
Turn your backyard or a patio into a lovely place for lounging, dining and relaxing. Pick the right materials for your outdoor furniture and enrich it with some accessories – we’re sure you’d never want to go inside.
