5 Ways to Create the Perfect Outdoor Eating Experience

Outdoor dining is synonymous with Australian culture.

Our balmy, mild temperatures give birth to a plethora of entertaining possibilities, including but not limited to: inviting guests over to dine under the stars or out in the sunshine. Moreover, an outdoor dining area not only extends your home, but it also increases its value! If you are planning to build an alfresco dining area, we’ve put together 5 ways that you can make the most of your space.

1. USE THE RIGHT AREA

There are a few things you’ll want to consider when designing an outdoor eating area.

Ideally, the space will be hidden away from the street or any noisy passersby. As well as this, ensure that the area is in a space that is still separated from the home, but still close to the kitchen for easy access. A good way to do this is to install glass sliding doors that can blur the barriers of indoor and outdoor.

2. PROVIDE PROTECTION

If you provide your outdoor eating space with protection from the elements, you will be able to use the area all year round. Not only will this keep the room comfortable during warm or cool days, but also protect your valuable furniture and décor from the sun, wind and rain. For example, consider outdoor products such as aluminium shutters or ziptrak blinds. These look stylish, but can be conveniently opened and closed, providing a seamless transition when you need it.

3. ADD COMFORTABLE FURNITURE

Ensure that you decorate your outdoor eating area in the same style that you have decorated your house. As it should be extension of your own home, evoke a comfortable yet functional feeling by utilising beautiful, well-designed furniture. Design the space as you would a regular dining area: with a dining table, comfortable chairs, and perhaps a rug, pillows and a couch.

4. CREATE AMBIENT LIGHTING

Lighting plays a huge part in evoking the right mood for any experience – in particular, that of dining. Ensure that the space you have created makes use of any natural light, and has the ability to create ambient lighting at night. Get creative and match your décor by making use of ceiling lights, lanterns, candles and fairy lights to light up the space.

5. ADD SOME DELIGHTFUL DECOR

Reflect your home’s design in your outdoor eating area by adding décor items that will reflect your home’s design. Whether you prefer a sleek look or bright colours; a rustic style or a contemporary aesthetic; incorporate your taste and style via the use of table cloths, cushions, plants and other décor elements.

One of the best ways you can enhance both your lifestyle and your space is to add a tranquil outdoor dining room to your home. Picture this: the breeze is gently blowing, all your loved ones are seated out under the stars in your backyard that is ambiently lit with beautiful lanterns. The smell of fresh, delectable food wafts through your home and into your outdoor entertaining area, and soft music scores the evening. There is not much better than being able to incorporate nature into your entertainment options, and an outdoor dining area is a great way to do this.