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Expand your living space this season by creating a cozy outdoor dining area.
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There’s something endlessly charming about dining outdoors during the summer months: whether it’s a long, lingering lunch under the trees, a candlelit dinner on the patio, or a casual brunch surrounded by blooms in the garden. The way we design our outdoor dining spaces can set the tone for the gatherings that we hold. Below, we’ll explore different patio décor styles, tips for styling your outdoor dining space to create a welcoming space for entertaining, and where to shop for outdoor furniture by price point.
Here in South Carolina, my husband and I tend to dine outside for most home meals from spring to fall. We just upgraded our outdoor dining spaces so I wanted to share some of the tips and inspiration we found helpful!
Outdoor Dining Styles to Inspire You
Creating defined “outdoor rooms” can take your alfresco dining setup from casual to curated. Just like indoors, you can use architectural features (or the illusion of them) to set boundaries and make the space feel intentional. Consider using outdoor rugs to visually ground your dining area, especially on a larger patio.
Pergolas, trellises, or arbors add a sense of enclosure and elegance, especially when draped with climbing vines like jasmine, clematis, or roses. If you’re working with an open yard, container gardens with tall plantings or potted trees can mimic the feeling of walls and soften the space.
1. Classic French Bistro
Recreate the charm of Provence right on your patio. A few vintage café chairs, an iron bistro table, string lights overhead, and a linen tablecloth billowing in the breeze will all help you capture this style. Add a few potted lavender plants or herbs for that unmistakable French countryside feel. This outdoor dining style is perfect for small patios or balconies where space is tight.
2. English Garden Charm
For a romantic, cottagecore-inspired dining setup, tuck a table into a garden corner framed by roses, tall delphiniums, or climbing jasmine. Use mismatched vintage chairs, soft floral table linens, and add plenty of fresh-cut flowers to the table to capture the charm of an English garden.
3. Mediterranean Courtyard
Channel the effortless and laidback feeling of a European summer in your patio with terracotta pots, patterned textiles, and olive or citrus trees. Choose weathered wood or wrought iron furniture and layer in colorful textiles like accent pillows or block-printed tablecloths. Use lanterns and hurricanes with candles to keep the glow going after sunset.
4. Coastal Calm
Inspired by charming coastal New England cottages, this style features white or natural teak furniture, woven rattan accents, and cool blue and green tones. Use seashells, potted hydrangeas, or simple white dishes for an airy, relaxed look that’s perfect for poolside or beach homes (or for anyone who loves the look of coastal style).
5. Rustic Farmhouse
A long farm table with a bench on a patio or a rustic antique-style metal table and chairs in the garden sets the tone for casual entertaining. Use colorful enamelware or stoneware for a grounded, homespun look when setting your table. Galvanized metal tubs with ice for drinks, vintage vases with homegrown flowers, and string lights complete the scene.
Tips for Designing a Stylish Outdoor Dining Space
Once you’ve decided what type of look you’re going for with your outdoor dining area, the next step is to start planning your decor. Here are some tips to help get you started!
Think of It as a Room
Treat your outdoor space like you would an indoor room. Create zones with rugs, lighting, and furniture placement. Add layers, such as pillows, throws, and textiles, to make the space feel finished and comfortable.
Add Ambience with Lighting
Lighting makes or breaks an outdoor dinner party. String lights, battery-powered lanterns or pendant lights, and candle-filled hurricanes all offer soft, romantic lighting without the harshness of a typical porch light.
Keep It Low-Maintenance
Choose materials that can handle the elements. Teak, powder-coated metal, and resin wicker are all durable options to look for when selecting outdoor furniture. Use washable outdoor table linens or oilcloth for easy cleanup.
Incorporate Greenery
Surround your dining space with potted topiaries, hanging planters, or herb gardens. Create centerpieces for your dining table with fresh cut flowers during the summer months.
Consider Storage and Flexibility
If you’re working with a small space, try foldable tables and stackable chairs. Store cushions and linens in an outdoor storage bench or waterproof bin to protect them from the elements between gatherings.
Where to Shop for Outdoor Dining Décor
Now that you’ve started planning your dreamy outdoor dining space, it’s time to shop for the furniture and decor! I’ve had good luck purchasing outdoor furniture on a budget from Amazon, Wayfair, or Facebook Marketplace / secondhand shops. However, if your budget is a bit more flexible, there are tons of really gorgeous pieces out there! I’ve shared a list of places to start at every price point below.
Luxury & Investment Pieces:
- Terrain – Beautifully curated garden furniture, linens, and planters with timeless appeal.
- One Kings Lane – Elegant outdoor furniture that will make any patio feel refined.
- McGee & Co. – Refined outdoor furniture, lanterns, and accessories with a modern traditional aesthetic.
- Serena & Lily – Known for coastal chic furnishings and gorgeous textiles perfect for patios.
Budget-Friendly Options:
- IKEA – Modern and simple outdoor furniture that’s practical and easy to style up.
- Wayfair – Tons of furniture options for every style.
- Amazon – Good for outdoor string lights, lanterns, table runners, and serveware.
- HomeGoods & TJ Maxx – Rotating inventory of stylish seasonal outdoor items at great prices.
Vintage & Sustainable Sources:
- Etsy – Find vintage French table linens, handmade napkin rings, or rattan trays.
- Facebook Marketplace – An excellent source for vintage metal patio sets or farmhouse tables.
- Thrift Stores – Look for old iron chairs, glassware, or enamel serveware to mix and match.
Outdoor dining doesn’t have to be elaborate to be beautiful. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or a slow summer dinner under the stars, the charm lies in the atmosphere you create and the joy of sharing a meal with others. With thoughtful design, smart shopping, and a few cozy details, your patio or garden can easily become your favorite “room” in the house.
I’ve linked some outdoor dining decor for you to shop below. If you’ve enjoyed this post, I’ve shared similar home decor posts below the shopping section for you to read next.
If you’re interested in following along with my Victorian home renovation or garden projects, please visit my Instagram and TikTok pages.
Shop Outdoor Dining Decor
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