Dining alfresco is one of the perks of living in this amazing coastal climate here in the Carolinas. Here are a few ideas on creating the perfect outdoor dining space so you can enjoy eating outside all year long.
Design A Space For Your Lifestyle
Do you like to entertain? Make sure you purchase a dining table that can accommodate many guests or create multiple dining areas. If you are just going to be dining with your partner or a few friends choose a smaller table so you can create a cozier setting. Make your seating comfortable and don’t be afraid to incorporate some color with the use of throw pillows and cushions. Built-in benches can also be a great seating option for larger groups.
Accessibility Is Key
Make sure your dining and grilling area is easily accessible to your kitchen. Hauling food and supplies out from the kitchen can be cumbersome and stressful, especially when you realize that you’ve forgotten an ingredient you need right now. You should also make sure the space is accessible to your guests no matter what their mobility situation is. For example, you may need to consider widening a path to make it suitable for a wheelchair or perhaps simply making your space open enough for guests to move around easily.
Maximize the View
Look at your outdoor space and decide which view is the most pleasant. Do you have a view of the beach or perhaps a lake? You will want to locate your outdoor dining area, so you can enjoy the amenities of your own landscape. If you are limited on space, you can always decorate a wall with plants or even a colorful curtain. Fountains, candles, or outdoor lighting can also help create a cozy and calming feel, transforming any backyard or patio into an oasis.
Keep it Cool
Create a shady area so you can enjoy your meal no matter what time of day it is. A simple outdoor umbrella can add a pop of color and keep your guests from melting on a hot day. If you want to splurge, a structure like a beautiful wooden pergola or custom canopy can really add style to your outdoor dining space.
Keep Out Uninvited Guests
Insects can really ruin a beautiful evening meal. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to decrease the critters while maintaining the charming atmosphere of your outdoor dining area. Most everyone knows the power of Citronella. Candles and torches can provide light as well as a decorative element while keeping biting bugs away. You may also be able to outfit your patio space with mosquito netting which can look like curtains around your pergola or outdoor structure. A decorative cover over your serving platters and dishes is also a good way to keep out unwanted pests. A moving water feature like a fountain can also repel some insects while creating a wonderful calming background sound.
These creative ideas will turn your outdoor dining space into something really special and make your home sweet home even sweeter! If you are looking for a home with more outdoor living space, give us a call. 855-902-9575
