Finally, you’re inviting over the couple next door for drinks and appetizers after years of “we really should get together sometime” calls back and forth over the fence. You meant it, really, but didn’t have the comfortable, inviting outdoor space for entertaining that you fantasized about; that “Martha Stewart-perfect setting” you drool over on the HGTV shows.
But that was then, this is now, and you love your new outdoor oasis. ‘How did I get here?’ you muse to yourself and then you remember: it all started the day you found the perfect outdoor dining set on Frontera.com.
Enjoy these handy three tips for buying your perfect outdoor dining ensemble:
#1: What will it used for (primarily)? No, Really.
There’s nothing better than an intimate family dinner al fresco, so if that’s your primary use for this dining set then make sure you choose one that accommodates your immediate family headcount AND includes a couple of empty seats for visiting relatives or friends. Tip: round dining tables are more flexible than square or rectangular tables in terms of squeezing in a couple more chairs to fit unexpected guests. There’s nothing worse than pulling up a chair to sit at the corner of a table.
If entertaining is your thing, consider a square or rectangular outdoor dining table with a hidden leaf, perfect for everyday use in its consolidated state, yet easily expandable for your next dinner party. Also, consider folding or stacking dining chairs for easy storage of extras when not in use.
#2 Choosing Styles & Materials (don’t stress, it will be fabulous)
With thoughtful research and planning, any outdoor space can be transformed into a spectacular dining setting. The style you choose for your dining ensemble can reflect the design of your home’s furnishings or architecture, or it can be a completely unique and fun environment all its own.
If you’re into classic lines and finishes, choose a handsome teak ensemble from fine furniture brands like Kingsley Bate or Barlow Tyrie. If bright colors are your fancy, shop recycled plastic furniture from Trex or Polywood, both available in a rainbow of hues. If your tastes lie somewhere in-between, consider a traditional dining set with pops of color in the chair cushions and table décor. And if a statement-setting modern look is what you’re going for, make sure to shop Danish furniture from Houe. They offer a bamboo dining table shaped like a giant leaf. Unusual? Yes. Ultra cool? Definitely.
Dining tables and chairs are available in a variety of wood types, from plantation grown teak to eco-friendly Eucalyptus and Bamboo, to common Cedar. Each of these wood types has its own attributes in terms of durability and maintenance; to learn more, check out our guide on How To Compare Wood Types.
If you live in a climate that is close to the ocean or often rainy you might consider a dining set made of stainless steel, aluminum, or recycled plastic. With proper care and maintenance, any of our furniture materials will be comfortable and attractive for years to come; coming to grips with how much of that care and maintenance you are willing to do is between you and your reflection in the mirror.
#3 Enough About Us, Let’s Talk About You
Everyone’s vision for their outdoor space is different, and you’ll have to weigh which features and attributes are important to you. Here are some to consider:
- Is your dining table going to be in an area that’s frequently sunny? If so, consider a dining table with an umbrella hole in the middle and purchase a market umbrella that will cover the table and chairs. Offset umbrellas are also available to provide shade via an arch that covers the area from a weighted base on the side of the patio.
- Bar height dining sets offer a quasi-commercial appeal.
- Dining table and dining chair covers are available to protect your investment.
- Placing your dining set on an outdoor rug can really enhance the beauty and comfort of your space.
- Serving carts and trays make entertaining easy.
- Extend the season with tabletop patio heaters.
