E.J. Murphy Realty
Heather Turri, E.J. Murphy RealtyPhone: (860) 605-5056
Email: [email protected]

How to design a beautiful outdoor dining area

by Heather Turri 04/28/2024

Metal outdoor chairs

If you’re interested in making mealtime more memorable and also getting more out of your outside living space, you might consider an outdoor dining area. Add a breath of fresh air into the mix by dining and cooking in the great outdoors. Here are some tips for arranging a backyard dining setup for ultimate outdoor enjoyment. 

Add shelter to shield against the elements 

When planning your outdoor dining space, consider the weather and the position of the yard. Avoid areas receiving most midday sun. If your dining area is close to the house, a simple outdoor umbrella may suffice. If you need more coverage, consider building a gazebo. This adds a large structure to shelter against sun and rain. 

Examine the location of your outdoor dining space 

You can transfer food and drinks easily by building your dining areas close to the kitchen. However, do take precaution with the proximity of outdoor grills. Proper space will prevent accidental fires. 

When setting up your dining table, try not to place it too close to a neighbor's property or directly underneath a bedroom window. Be mindful of privacy and be considerate of noise levels. 

Make your dining space pop with garden design 

Enjoy outdoor dining to the fullest with a charming garden design. If you enjoy butterflies and would like to add a splash of color, try planting Phlox, Butterfly Bush, Bluestar or other plants butterflies love. 

If you enjoy artwork, small stone statues are a great addition. These statues can be of people or animals and will bring a sense of animation and life to the space. Statues also are a great topic of conversation.

An herb garden is a great idea if you would like to have fresh herbs for your meals. Adding plants that complement other decor elements is sure to enrich the experience! 

Plan out your tablescape 

Spice up your dining table this season with a one-of-a-kind tablescape. Create a pleasant vibe by adding cloth to your outdoor dining table. The cloth can match your overall aesthetic. If you prefer bright shades, try a bold tablecloth. If you have a simplistic vibe, try neutral tones.

Organize your table based on what it will be used for. If you intend to have dinner parties, allow room for plates, food, and guests to stretch out during their meal.  If the table is being used mostly for chatting and a few snacks, you can fill up the place with more centerpieces. This will help to enhance the overall aesthetic and can be a talking point for guests. 

Let the center of the table be the focal point. Play with the aesthetic by adding candles, wood pieces and plants to create a cozy, earthy vibe. Surround the table with dining chairs made of sling fabric or other easily cleaned materials for easy maintenance. 

Infographic about desining an outdoor dining space

The same warmth found in the kitchen and dining areas can be extended onto your patio or deck. Create a beautiful outdoor dining set to make the most of your patio. Kick back with your favorite relaxing activity and enjoy your backyard space.

About the Author
Author

Heather Turri

As a lifelong resident of Litchfield County, Heather is quite familiar with the beautiful Northwest Corner of Connecticut.  In partnership with her husband at Turri, Inc., in Torrington, she managed and grew a 30+ employee electrical contracting firm that served both the residential, commercial and industrial industries.  Currently residing in Goshen she hopes to transfer and utilize many of the skills she learned in contracting to the real estate industry.

Knowing how a vital community relies on its volunteers, Heather spent many hours in several capacities at local organizations that she admires.  She serves on the Woodridge Lake Finance Committee and House Committee,  Victoria Court Condominium Association (secretary) and Educating Canines Assisting with Disabilities (volunteer and nursery mom).  Heather has also been involved with Goshen Community Care & Hospice (president of board of directors), Warner Theatre (board of directors), LARC (volunteer), Festival of Trees (founder), the Northwest Chamber of Commerce, and Goshen Business Circle.  Heather also served as Vice President of Woodridge Lake’s Board of Directors.

In Heather’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with family usually in an active way by playing tennis, golf, boating, hiking and skiing.

Heather is honored to be a part of the E.J. Murphy team and hopes you will contact her with any of your real estate needs.