How To Create the Ultimate Outdoor Dining Space
Imagine enjoying a warm evening surrounded by friends and family, savoring delicious food, and basking in the fresh air of your own beautifully designed outdoor dining space. Creating this inviting atmosphere in your backyard is easier than you might think. Even if you’re not a home design expert or a seasoned outdoor entertainer, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about building the ultimate outdoor dining space that’s perfect for every occasion.
We’ll walk you through the foundational steps of assembling a dining space, tips for elevating outdoor dining areas through design, and guidelines for maintaining it year-round. Let’s get started on transforming your backyard into a dining paradise.
Steps for Creating an Outdoor Dining Space
Developing the ultimate outdoor dining space is a similar process to designing other areas in your home. But as an extension of your property, there are some special considerations to take into account. These are the five basic steps to forge an outdoor dining area.
Selecting the Perfect Location
The first step in creating the ultimate outdoor dining space is selecting the perfect location, as it sets the foundation for the entire project. Ensure the area is easily accessible from both the house and other parts of your backyard. If you already have a deck, patio, or other outdoor structure in your backyard, it is likely the best location for hosting outdoor events.
Consider Existing Features
Take a look around your backyard and note any existing features that could influence your design. If your home comes with outdoor kitchen appliances or a grill, you will want to consider these as you arrange furniture and assess your available space. Landscaping or water features are also excellent to tie in to add flair to your dining area.
Determine Furniture Needs
The next step is to determine what kinds and how much outdoor furniture to purchase. Do you need a large table for family gatherings or a cozy setup for intimate dinners? Consider your personal preferences and climate when browsing types of dining tables, chairs, benches, and other functional furniture.
Provide Enough Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for creating an inviting outdoor dining space. It extends the usability of your area well into the evening and sets the mood. Consider installing string lights, lanterns, or even a fire pit for a warm and cozy atmosphere.
Decorate With Home Goods
Add finishing touches to your dining area with decor. Decorating your outdoor dining space with home goods can bring a sense of warmth and personality. Think about incorporating outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and even artwork designed to withstand the elements. These touches make the space feel like an extension of your home.
Tips for Designing an Outdoor Dining Space
Beyond the practical steps listed above, there are many ways to enhance your outdoor dining space’s functionality and appearance. By following these six tips, you will maximize the usefulness and beauty of your backyard space.
Create Functional Walkways
As you are arranging dining furniture, ensure there are clear paths for guests to move around comfortably. This involves planning walkways that connect different areas of your backyard, making it easy for guests to move between the dining space, garden, and inside your home.
Add Outdoor Heating or Fans
Depending on your climate, providing outdoor heating sources or a fan to cool guests off is a worthwhile investment for you and your guests’ comfort. Patio heaters, fire pits, or ceiling fans can significantly enhance your guests’ experience and make your space adaptable to different seasons.
Mix Accent and Task Lighting
There are several types of lighting in home design, and two key lighting fixtures to include outdoors are task lighting and accent lighting. Task lighting illuminates functional areas, like around kitchen appliances and near your dining table, so that you can see what you’re doing. Ambient lighting is essential for setting a cozy atmosphere or adding touches of color in unique areas.
Provide Ample Shade
Providing shade is essential for daytime dining. Options include umbrellas, pergolas, or even a canopy of trees. Shade keeps your guests comfortable and protects them from the sun’s harsh rays, allowing for longer, more enjoyable gatherings.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Embrace the natural beauty of your backyard by incorporating natural elements in your dining space’s decor. Potted plants, floral table centerpieces, and bushes complement virtually all design styles and instantly beautify any deck or patio. Be sure to choose plants that thrive in your climate.
Offer Guests a Beautiful View
Position your dining area to take advantage of any scenic views your backyard might offer. Whether it’s a well-maintained garden, a stunning sunset, or a tranquil water feature, a beautiful view adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience.
Tips for Maintaining an Outdoor Dining Space
Maintaining your ultimate outdoor dining space ensures it remains inviting and functional for years to come. Here are some basic tips to keep your area in top condition.
Choose Weather-Resistant Furniture
Invest in weather-resistant furniture. Materials like teak, metal, and all-weather wicker are durable and can handle various weather conditions. This investment will save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Address Repairs
Promptly addressing any repairs prevents small issues from becoming major problems. Regularly inspect your furniture, lighting, and other elements for signs of wear and tear. Fix or replace damaged items as needed to keep your space safe and functional.
Host in a Covered Space
One of the best ways to protect your outdoor dining space from the elements is to keep your furniture and decor in a covered area. Covered porches offer several benefits to homeowners, including providing shade and acting as extended living space. If you don’t already have a covered porch connected to your home, this addition can also boost its value if you go to sell your house.
Ready to start your outdoor dining transformation? Distinctive Design Remodeling specializes in patio design in Lexington, Kentucky, to make your vision of outdoor entertainment a reality. Our expert team constructs covered patios from the ground up and works with existing patios to expand them with a custom-built roof. If these additions seem enticing for building an outdoor dining space, contact us today to schedule a free in-home estimate.