8 Elements of a Perfect Outdoor Dining Room

Summer is fast approaching (faster in some parts of the country) and now is the time to start planning for entertaining outside on those late summer evenings. An outdoor dining area is a perfect setting for a dinner party, and if planned correctly, a wonderful setting for the evening repast throughout the year. Here are 6 things to think about when creating your perfect outdoor dining space.

1. Light your table for ambience. A light source above or near your table allows for an enjoyable gathering past sundown. By placing this dining table under the metal canopy, these homeowners were able to also hang a chandelier above their table. The simple solution makes this space that much more enjoyable (and usable) as the early evening turns to night. 

For a simpler alternative, a string of lights around the underside of a market umbrella provides ample light.

2. Protect the table from the elements. Most of us live in a part of the country in which we have some type of weather to deal with on a daily basis. It might be a late afternoon rain shower or searing mid-day sun. Whatever it is, covering the outdoor dining room is a way to make it into a space that can be used most of the year.

In this space, the drapery adds an extra layer of protection while softening the hard lines of the structure. The chandelier provides nice light for late evening parties.
 

 

3. Consider the outdoor dining room as a destination spot. This purely modern structure sits in a parklike setting surrounded by large trees and an expansive pool. By placing it away from the house, it becomes a destination for your guests. The particular design of this structure is reminiscent of an old drive-thru. It's time to gather the family and just hang out. 





 






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