Outdoor eating is the perfect way to soak up some much-needed direct sunlight and replenish your vitamin D. Did you know that it’s not too early to start your outdoor eating area? Contrary to popular belief, eating in the garden isn’t best enjoyed in the summer. More often than not, the summer months are too hot. But on a mild autumn or winter day, it could be a fantastic way to boost your mood.
Whether you’re dining al fresco with friends and family or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning sunshine, there’s no better way to make the most of the outdoors. In this post, we’ll look at the various options for creating an elegant outdoor eating area; a fully weatherproof garden that you can use it all year round!
Garden furniture
Garden furniture helps to bring your vision of an inviting, sophisticated space to life and can completely transform an area. Quality garden furniture pieces will provide plenty of comfort, a timeless look and an added touch of luxury to any outdoor setting.
Choosing the right furniture for your outdoor eating area will depend on the size of the space, the style you’re looking to achieve and the climate in which you live. If you’re going for a classic look, choose furniture made from materials such as teak or wicker for a timeless, natural feel. For a more modern look, choose pieces made from moulded plastic or rustproof metal.
Pergolas
Pergolas are a great addition to any outdoor eating area, providing shelter from the wind and adding an elegant touch to your landscape. A pergola is an open-air structure usually made of wood or metal and features a lattice roof. It provides partial shade and creates an inviting atmosphere for outdoor gatherings. Pergolas are also great for climbing plants, such as vines and roses, adding extra beauty and fragrance to your outdoor eating space.
As a rule of thumb, you want to consider regular maintenance, such as hiring a specialist service to maintain the structure in top condition. It’s not uncommon to replace a pergola’s corrugated plastic roofing sheets every few years. This will keep your eating area maintained and weatherproof so that it can withstand the elements.
A covered patio can also be a great option. Patios are more likely to be protected from the external elements thanks to their proximity to the house. They can also come with side panels sheltering to control sun and wind exposure.
Heating solutions
When you want to enjoy the great outdoors for dinner, but the weather could be more accommodating, an outdoor heater might be just what you need. There are several options when it comes to choosing the right heating system for your outdoor eating area.
You can opt for an electric patio heater, which is fast and efficient. Patio heaters are extremely popular for al fresco dinners, ensuring that you can conveniently eat outside.
A wood-burning fire pit is also a popular choice, as it provides a cosy atmosphere, but you’ll need to ensure that it is situated safely away from furniture, trees and people. Sometimes, home-owners also opt for outdoor ovens such as an outdoor pizza oven or a standing BBQ grill as a way to generate heat while cooking.
An outdoor eating area can be a game-changer in your day-to-day social life. Seasonal affective disorder affects up to 3% of the population and could be easily managed by spending more time outdoors.
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