Eating outside is one of those little joys of life. Something magical occurs when you have a meal outside: a barbecue with the family on a hot afternoon, an early coffee out on the patio, or an evening meal with friends under the stars.
So, a perfectly chosen outdoor table can transform any exterior environment into an attractive environment for mealtimes, lounging, and making memories. However, it appears so difficult to find just the one you need, so many shapes, sizes, and materials. Wood versus metal? Circular versus rectangular? Oversize versus miniature?
The right one depends on lifestyle, personal preference, and living accommodation. This guide will take you through everything, from the best material to the best shape and seat selection.
1. Consider Your Space
Before buying an outdoor table, consider where it will be located. Available space affects table shape and size. Is there a huge backyard, an intimate patio, or a small balcony? Every setting has different demands, so it only makes sense to choose wisely so you achieve maximum comfort and functionality.
Therefore, a rectangular table is an excellent option for a vast outdoor setting. It has enough room for guests and functions well if you wish to organize evening parties or gatherings. But if you have small balconies or verandas, you must have a square or round table, as it takes less space while accommodating enough chairs.
Furthermore, a compact outdoor dining table is also an excellent choice if you have little space. It requires little space when it is stored. However little space you have, there must always be enough room to move around the table and remove chairs. A general rule is always to leave a space of at least 90 cm close to the table so you can move comfortably.
2. Choose the Right Material
When selecting an outdoor table, one thing you must first think about is the material. Outdoor furniture must withstand the elements, so it has to withstand the sunlight, rainfall, and wind without losing any form of durability, let alone attractiveness. What you decide here decides the table’s longevity, the care required, and whether it fits well with your exterior setting.
Remember, aluminum is an excellent choice if you want it to be light and easy to relocate. It is also rust-proof, streamlined, and easy to relocate. Wood makes an attractive choice if you want timeless, natural beauty, but it does require maintenance to protect it from weathering.
Wicker or rattan adds a warm, attractive ambiance. However, it must be confined to covered areas, so it does not deteriorate. Glass tables give an aura of sophistication, are easy to clean, and are breakable.
If durability comes first, you might think about a concrete table with a sleek, rugged look, but remember, it weighs very heavily. To decide, consider the local climate, the level of maintenance you’re willing to do, and the overall look you want in your yard.
3. Think About Seating
The seating capacity of your table outside must complement the way you entertain. Are you constantly entertaining many people or close friends over an intimate meal? How you seat individuals significantly impacts creating an accommodating, warm, welcoming, and hospitable dining setting.
For a relaxed, home-like setting, bench seating is an excellent option. It allows more individuals to gather around the table while creating an informal setting. If comfort level is essential, armrest chairs provide added support, so these are ideal for longer sessions and leisurely conversations.
Also, stackable chairs are an intelligent choice if you have little space or prefer flexibility. These chairs stack away effortlessly when you are not utilizing them, leaving you with an uncluttered exterior. Combine several chair models to add personality to your table setting for an elegant, modern touch.
4. Pick the Right Shape
Your outdoor table’s shape is incredibly influential in functionality and beauty. It decides the number of people you can seat comfortably and the environment. Having the right shape ensures that your dining area is functional and hospitable.
Besides, a rectangular table is an old standby if you host many people. It has plenty of seating capacity and serves well in huge spaces. A round table, by contrast, is just the thing if you have minimal space, as it encourages conversation and allows individuals to mingle.
Furthermore, a square table also proves helpful when there are only little spaces or tiny gatherings, creating an intimate, well-balanced look. If you want an amalgamation of rectangular and rounded elements, an oval table accommodates seating while creating a smoother, sleeker look.
5. Look for Weather Resistance & Easy Maintenance
Since your outdoor dining table will have weather exposure, choosing one that lasts is essential. A weather-resistant build will let you enjoy your table, staying beautiful for many years while reducing the need for ongoing upkeep.
A UV-resistant finish guards against fading, mainly if you are located in an arid environment. If you have plenty of rainfall, waterproof materials will guard the table against moisture. Rust-proof frames are necessary if you wish the table to endure, especially if frames are exposed to moisture-rich air or near the coast.
Maintenance should also play an essential factor. Simple-to-clean tabletops give you time to spend in your outdoor living area, not upkeep. A weather-resistant, quality table ensures that your outdoor entertainment area remains stylish, functional, and problem-free for many years.
Final Thought
The perfect table for outdoor dining must fit your space, taste, and requirements. When choosing a table, consider size, material, form, capacity, and longevity.
With the ideal table, you will have beautiful outdoor furniture to enjoy mealtimes and cherish memories over many years.
