Alfresco and Outdoor Dining Ideas

With the days getting longer and the temperature getting warmer, taking your meals out of the dining room into the open air is one of the best ways to make the most of the summer.

Whether you're dining out on the verandah, by the poolside or down at the bottom of the garden, here are some ideas for creating al fresco dining areas to suit every mood and occasion.

Relaxed beachside vibe

If your backyard is a place to unwind and get away from it all, you can set the right care-free atmosphere by avoiding matching furniture sets and instead mixing a variety of styles, materials and textures. Natural materials such as wicker, wood and stone will help you to leave the modern world behind.

Sophisticated outdoor dining

Dining outdoors doesn't have to be informal though, and you won't have to sacrifice style and sophistication when you set up a dining table and enough place settings for family and friends under the shade of a covered pergola. Even in the shade, it's still a good idea to choose durable outdoor furniture that will stand up to the elements, made from moisture-resistant materials such as steel, aluminium or treated timber.

Garden oasis

If you're looking for excuses to spend more time in the garden, setting up a temporary or permanent dining area away from the house in a gazebo or other covered structure is a great way to extend your outdoor living space and escape to nature. Make sure you have a safe and easy route from your dining area back to the kitchen by installing paving and lighting.

Front porch dining

If your front porch or verandah is far enough from the street, it can make the perfect setting for a cosy dinner for two or waking up with breakfast and coffee, especially in the country.

Vibrant party space

Any outdoor space can be turned into a buzzing social hub with a few splashes of colour, lights, music and enough seating for all of your guests. If your budget doesn't stretch to buying extra furniture, large cushions and bean bags scattered across the deck set a fun and informal atmosphere.

Rustic fireside dining

To create an outdoor dining area for all seasons, just add fire. If you're planning to spend a lot of time outdoors, you could install a fireplace in your pergola or go with the more economical option of a raised concrete and glass firepit that doubles up as a coffee table when not in use.

Outdoor bar

If you're serious about entertaining al fresco, an outdoor bar will show you mean business. Shaded under a verandah roof, you can bring out your drinks cabinet and improvise counters and buffet tables from spare furniture and crates.

Transform your outdoor space today

Install a Veranda is Australia's leading verandah specialist, offering hundreds of possible design combinations to suit every home and every budget.

Call 1800 000 504 to speak to our design and installation experts and get your free consultation and quote