Ever thought about why some patios look great and work well? Picking the right outdoor dining tables is key. It’s about beauty, how useful it is, and how long it lasts. Alexandra Davin, an expert from Davin Interiors, says it’s vital to match your outdoor space to your life. This could mean spots for eating outside or just chilling. We’ll help you figure out the best size, shape, and material. This way, you can make an outdoor dining area that looks amazing.
Key Takeaways
- Make sure to keep 3 feet of space open around your table. This makes moving around easy.
- Here’s a tip: a 48” long table fits 4 people, and a 92-108” table can hold up to 10.
- Expandable tables change size easily. They’re perfect for small or big groups.
- Wood and metal are strong and easy to keep up. They’re top picks for being outside.
- Resin wicker stands up well to the weather. It lasts a long time for outdoor use.
Understanding Your Space and Needs
Before you pick the perfect outdoor dining table, measure your patio’s size. It’s a big part of patio space planning to make sure your furniture fits well. You don’t want it too crowded. Keep at least 90cm between the table edge and any wall or object for easy moving around.
Assessing Available Space
First, measure your patio’s length and width with a tape measure. Imagine how you might set it up. This will help you pick the best dining table size. For example, rectangular tables like the Branch Bistro table for two or the Illum table for eight work well in many layouts. Round tables like the Minus table are great for snug or unique spaces. They make moving around simpler and dining feel more cozy.
Determining Usage
Think about how often you’ll use your outdoor space. If you love big family gatherings or hosting parties, a larger table like the Addis Teak Extension Table might be perfect. It can fit up to 14 guests. But if you have smaller get-togethers, the Minus table, which is 85cm wide, might be better. Also, the material matters for upkeep and lasting use; teak needs sealing twice a year, but ceramic tops are tough for busy families.
Looking closely at your space and how you’ll use it helps you choose wisely. This enhances both function and beauty of your patio dining spot.
Types of Outdoor Dining Tables
Finding the perfect outdoor dining table can make your patio look and work better. There are many types of tables to pick from. Whether you need a small bistro set or a big table, there’s something for every space.
Material Choices
The material of your patio table affects how long it lasts, its care, and its appearance. Let’s look at some top choices for materials:
- Wood: Perfect for a timeless, natural vibe. Teak stands out for being weather-proof and having a beautiful color.
- Metal: Aluminum and stainless steel offer a contemporary feel and don’t rust, ideal for outdoors.
- Synthetic Materials: Materials like resin and synthetic wicker are easy to care for and very strong.
- Blended Materials: Mixes of wood and metal or wood and synthetics combine style with strength.
Styles and Designs
Outdoor dining tables come in different styles to match any patio. Here’s a quick overview of some popular styles:
- Modern and Minimalist: Features simple designs with clean lines, often using metal and glass.
- Rustic and Natural: Focuses on the charm of natural wood, looking aged or reclaimed.
- Classic and Traditional: Offers timeless beauty with detailed designs, commonly in wood or wrought iron.
These styles are made to meet various tastes, helping you create a welcoming and useful outdoor area.
| Material Type | Durability | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Wood (e.g., Teak) | High | Seasonal treatments required |
| Metal (e.g., Aluminum) | Very High | Minimal, occasional cleaning |
| Synthetic (e.g., Resin) | High | Very low, rinse with water |
| Blended Materials | Varies | Depends on combination |
Consider Size and Shape
Choosing the right size and shape for our outdoor dining table is key. We must think about the space we have. It’s also about what we need from the table. Let’s look into this more.
Optimal Dimensions
The best size for an outdoor dining table depends on the number of people and the space available. There are sets with three to nine pieces for different needs. For example, a small set for two or larger ones for more people.
If you like to entertain, big nine-piece sets are good. They give plenty of room. Just remember, chairs and tables need extra space around them. For seating, allow 3 feet of clearance around the table. A big round table will need at least 120 inches of space.
Tables come in different heights too. They can be 30 inches tall at dining height. Or they might be 36 inches for counter height, and 42 inches for bar height. It’s all about what works for your space and style.
Shape Implications
The table’s shape makes a big difference. Round tables are cozy for small groups. But rectangular tables are better for more guests and conversations. Make sure rectangular tables are wide enough for everyone’s plates.
Square tables fit well in square spaces and are good for fewer people. They can also expand to fit more guests. Big round tables may make talking hard because of the distance. Oval tables look smaller but have less room on top. You can put two square tables together for bigger gatherings.
When picking the size and shape of your table, think about both use and looks. Bigger tables are great for guests but take up more space. The right table makes outdoor meals better.
Material Options for Durability
Choosing materials for outdoor furniture is very important. Think about the climate and how your outdoor area is exposed. Picking right can make your outdoor dining tables last much longer.
Wood Options
Woods like teak, cedar, and acacia are known for lasting a long time. With the right care, they can survive the outdoors for many years. Teak, for example, can last over 25 years with regular oiling.
Looking after wood furniture means cleaning and sealing it often, every 6 to 12 months. This keeps it from getting damaged.
Metal Choices
Aluminum and iron are good metals for outdoor tables. Aluminum doesn’t rust easily, so it lasts more than 10 years with little upkeep. But, iron might rust, especially near the sea. Metal sets combine beauty with a good price, often costing less than quality wood ones.
Synthetic Materials
HDPE (high-density polyethylene) and resin wicker are low-maintenance and look modern. HDPE furniture can last 10-20 years without much care. Still, low-quality resin wicker may break in harsh weather.
Blended Materials
Mixing materials means furniture is both durable and stylish. Some use metals like cast aluminum with synthetics for both looks and weather resistance. In places near the sea, these materials do very well because they resist salt air and humidity.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teak Wood | Highly durable, long-lasting (25+ years), natural look | Requires regular oiling, higher maintenance | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Aluminum | Rust-resistant, low maintenance, affordable | Can be prone to dents, less weight for stability | $200 – $800 |
| HDPE | Weather-resistant, minimal maintenance, modern look | Lower-grade may crack in extreme weather | $699 – $2,499 |
| Blended Materials | Combines strengths of multiple materials, versatile | Varies based on material mix, may be costly | $1,000 – $2,500 |
Thinking about these materials means your outdoor tables will not just last. They will also look how you want and work well for your outdoor area.
Styles to Match Your Patio Aesthetic
To make the perfect outdoor area, start by choosing a style that fits your patio. Mixing different furniture styles can make your patio special and show your own taste. Think about the style, material, and design of your tables to get a great look.
Modern and Minimalist
If you like a simple and neat look, go for modern and minimalist styles. Choose furniture with straight lines, neutral colors, and little decoration. These styles use metal and glass to give your space a modern feel. About 60% of people like a mix of old and new furniture, which looks good with modern tables and traditional seats. To improve your modern theme, use smooth textures and matching colors.
Rustic and Natural
Rustic design uses nature’s elements, great for those who want a cozy outdoor space. With materials like wood and stone, rustic looks blend with nature. Pick furniture that looks warm with distressed finishes. Studies say mixing hard woods with soft materials adds comfort and a special touch. Mixing textures and colors makes your patio welcoming.
Classic and Traditional
For a lasting style, classic and traditional designs are great. They use detailed designs and tough materials like wrought iron and teak. Keeping a balance of classic pieces stops the space from feeling messy. Soft fabrics and natural colors make it look traditional. About 55% of people think classic furniture makes an outdoor area calm and elegant.
Choosing the right mix of styles and furniture makes your patio inviting. Whether you love modern, rustic, or classic looks, the right elements can make your space beautiful and useful.
Outdoor Dining Tables for Every Budget
Finding the right outdoor dining table can change your patio into an inviting spot. It should fit your budget and style tastes. There are great options for every budget, from luxury to affordable.
High-End Luxury
If you want top luxury patio furniture, check out Lavita Outdoor and RJ Living. They have fancy tables made of materials like stainless steel and UV-protected PE wicker. For instance, the RESORT Samoa Terrazzo Dining Table costs $1,699.00. It’s both stylish and strong, perfect for any outdoor area.
Some tables can extend to fit up to 10 guests. This is great for big parties. Lavita Outdoor has tables of different heights that work in big or small spaces.
Mid-Range Selections
Want something that looks good and is practical without spending too much? RJ Living has mid-range tables like the TEAK Solo Outdoor Dining Table. It fits up to 10 people. These tables use materials that look nice and can handle the weather.
There are also round tables that seat 4-6 people comfortably. You can find lots of styles, like traditional or bistro. This makes it easy for families to find the right table for their outdoor meals.
Budget-Friendly Options
For tighter budgets, there are affordable tables for casual meals and seasonal use. For example, Lavita Outdoor’s RESORT Samoa Timber Dining Table is $849.00. It offers good value without missing key features. These tables are made with strong materials like wood to handle different weather all year.
This budget range also includes sets with chairs, giving you more for your money. Even at lower prices, these tables are still stylish. They’re a smart pick for anyone who needs an outdoor dining solution for now.
| Product | Maximum Seating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| RESORT Samoa Timber Dining Table | 6 People | $849.00 |
| RESORT Samoa Terrazzo Dining Table | 8 People | $1,699.00 |
| RESORT Samoa Terrazzo Bar Set | 10 People | $2,699.00 |
| TEAK Solo Outdoor Dining Table 10 Setting | 10 People | Variable |
Additional Features and Accessories
Choosing the right outdoor dining table comes with considering extra features and accessories. These additions can make your outdoor dining better. They include designs that adjust and protective elements. These aspects make your table useful and lasting.
Expandable Tables
Expandable designs are patio table features people love for their flexibility. These tables can grow to host more guests or shrink for smaller groups. It means you can change the size of your dining area depending on the event. This makes them a smart choice for those who enjoy having people over.
Weather-Resistant Coatings
Look for outdoor tables with weather-resistant coatings. These coatings guard against elements like rain and heat. They’re often found on teak wood and aluminum tables, boosting their toughness. This ensures your outdoor set stays in great shape with little upkeep, letting you cherish its look and usefulness for a long time.
Built-in Umbrella Holes
Patio table features like built-in umbrella holes are key for sunny days. They let you easily add an umbrella for shade, making outdoor meals cooler. This also safeguards your table and guests from strong sunlight. Many modern tables include these holes in a way that keeps them looking good while being practical.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Expandable Outdoor Tables | Adjustable size for different gathering needs |
| Weather-Resistant Coatings | Protection against harsh elements |
| Built-in Umbrella Holes | Convenient shade for enhanced comfort |
Conclusion
Finding the right tables for your patio needs thought about space, budget, and what you like. You have to think about what you need. This way, you find a table that fits well and lasts in the Australian outdoors.
Choose materials like teak wood, aluminium, or synthetic wicker for tough tables. These materials keep your table looking good all year. Picking weather-resistant tables is key for a great outdoor eating spot.
It’s smart to pick outdoor tables that can handle bad weather too. Tables with special coatings or umbrella holes last longer. The best dining setups make your outdoor area a cozy spot for parties or meals outside all year.
