Outdoors
Creating the perfect outdoor dining space this summer
There’s something magical about dining outdoors during the warmer weather. A gentle breeze, natural light and fresh air transform even the simplest meal into a memorable experience. Creating the perfect outdoor dining space doesn’t require a complete garden overhaul as with thoughtful planning and the right elements, you can establish a beautiful alfresco dining area for all seasons and all kinds of weather.
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Take some tips from the experts, as shading specialist Caribbean Blinds has recently joined forces with Grillo, the UK’s leading outdoor kitchen brand, to launch the Grillo Pergola - a weatherproof kitchen with a specially designed pergola.
Choosing your location
The first step in developing your outdoor dining ideas is selecting the ideal spot. Consider how the summer sun moves across your garden throughout the day. Morning sunshine creates a lovely atmosphere for breakfast on the terrace, while afternoon shade makes lunch more comfortable. Think about proximity to your kitchen too because nobody wants to trek across the garden carrying hot dishes or forgotten napkins.
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Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director at Caribbean Blinds, says: “Homeowners shouldn’t forget about where they place their outdoor kitchen. Charcoal cooking is renowned for producing copious amounts of smoke, so ventilation is key. No one wants to spend time in a smoke-filled space which is why opening roofs and sides on outdoor structures is essential. Our louvered-roof pergolas can tilt at 10 degrees, providing shelter from rain while, at the same time, allowing the smoke and heat to escape.”
Essential furniture selection
Your dining table forms the heart of any outdoor eating area. A circular garden table encourages conversation and works brilliantly for intimate dinner parties, while rectangular options accommodate larger gatherings. Look for patio furniture with good back support and add plenty of cushions for comfort and colour.
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An outdoor sideboard provides space for serving dishes, glassware and dining essentials while keeping everything within easy reach.
Getting the vibe right
Transform your outdoor dining area with thoughtful decor. Lanterns create wonderful ambience as daylight fades, while a weather-resistant rug defines your space. Planters filled with herbs provide fresh ingredients and natural fragrance around your dining area.
Practical considerations
Consider storage solutions for cushions and dining accessories. For extending your season, heating options like outdoor fireplaces provide warmth for cooler evenings, transforming your summer dining space into a year-round outdoor living area.
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Proper shade transforms your outdoor dining experience. Patio awnings offer flexible coverage that extends from your house wall, providing instant shelter when needed and the motorised options allow you to adjust coverage throughout your meal.
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For comprehensive coverage, louvered pergolas create sophisticated outdoor living spaces. Adjustable roof systems let you control how much sunlight filters through and rotating louvers can be positioned to maintain airflow, essential for comfortable outdoor eating areas.
Taking outdoor cooking further
Consider incorporating a complete outdoor kitchen solution. The modern outdoor kitchen features high-performance grills, smart storage, durable worktops and even refrigeration. It is a space designed for living as much as for cooking. As Stuart Dantzic explains, “Our clients want to use their gardens all year round. That means creating a destination where people can gather, prepare food and enjoy time together, whatever the weather.”
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Or keep your outdoor cooking simple. According to Douglas Donald, Managing Director at Grillo: “People are turning back to simpler, more soulful ways of cooking, involving a real fire, honest ingredients and shared experiences. It is not about flashy equipment. It is about joy and bringing people together in a way that is relaxed and authentic.”
Making It personal
Your outdoor dining space should reflect who you are and how you entertain. Whether hosting barbecue parties or intimate family meals, focus on flexible seating and appropriate lighting. With proper shelter, quality furniture and attention to comfort, your alfresco dining area will become the heart of your summer activities, creating memorable outdoor dining experiences for family and friends.
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Douglas Donald concludes: “It’s all about the experience – the theatre, the intrigue and most importantly, connection with family and friends. It’s about creating that wow factor, where your guests leave saying, ‘That was one of the best evenings I’ve had in ages.’
To find out more, visit www.cbsolarshading.co.uk/louvered-roofs/grillo-pergola
