Acadia Grade A Teak Folding Bar Cabinet
Hawthorne Grade A Teak Bench
The possibilities are endless when it comes to dreamy outdoor dining areas–customizable to any gathering size, formal or casual events, different styles, and even to different weather conditions.
It’s no wonder the appeal of al fresco dining is so enduring. We may not have the time to go on grand adventures every day, but making daily routines like eating lunch or drinking our morning coffee a little more special can go a long way in recharging us.
From dining sets to tablescapes, there's a lot of room to play, swapping elements for a new look as the seasons change or your style evolves. Keep reading for outdoor dining ideas curated for your specific outdoor space and occasion.
Before you pick out the perfect seats or linen napkins, take a moment to step back and consider what makes sense for your space in a functional sense?
Your environment will shape what’s possible–and what’s practical. Every outdoor space is unique and there are a few things you’ll need to consider before diving into colorways and tablescapes:
Are you wanting to add a poolside dining area you'll only use on warm summer afternoons or are you wanting an all-weather space you can use all year long? How and when you plan to use your space will dictate the direction of your design.
Think about how you can highlight the best parts of your space while also taking the limitations of your unique landscape into account. For instance, you may love the idea of having a large table to host gatherings, but if your space can’t accommodate it without obstructing traffic, you may need to reconsider.
The time of day or night you plan to use your setup is oft forgotten but always crucial when it comes to planning outdoor lighting.
If you plan to host a lot of outdoor dinners, you’ll have different lighting needs than someone who will only use their space in the morning.
You may love the look of a small bistro table tucked away in a secret garden, but it won’t be practical if you plan to regularly host large brunches.
Capacity simply can’t be ignored when it comes to designing your outdoor dining space. Here are some sample plans to inspire:
Vibe: Elegant, refined, thoughtful
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Vibe: Romantic, quiet, personal.
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Vibe: Laid-back, casual, social
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Vibe: Relaxed, cozy, perfect for snacks and storytelling
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Vibe: Light, colorful, semi-formal
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Vibe: Warm, communal, casual-elegant
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Vibe: Tropical, chic, laid back
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Once the big picture is in place, it's time to dig into the details, where your creativity can take the lead. Here are some of the elements that go into shaping a sophisticated outdoor space that feels like it’s truly your own:
We hear a lot about landscaping, but a huge part of outdoor design is actually hardscaping, especially when it comes to defining dining spaces. Think of it as the architectural backbone of your yard.
In fact, most exceptionally designed outdoor dining areas owe their atmosphere and structure to well-planned hardscaping. And that includes any permanent design feature in your outdoor space that isn’t living.
This includes everything from transitional pieces like arbors, bridges, gravel walkways, and stepping stones to practical elements like pergolas, gazebos, fire pits, and permanent outdoor fireplaces and kitchens–as well as decorative focal points like strategically placed statues and trellises–and water features like ponds, waterfalls, or fountains–all of which add to a stunning outdoor dining experience.
Unlike throw pillows or table settings, hardscape elements can be difficult to alter down the road, so plan them with intention now.
Yes, outdoor lighting sources are a practical necessity—but they also add to your outdoor dining experience in other ways.
First consider form. A sculptural pendant over your dining table gives a very different vibe than a string of café lights or a vintage lantern. From Moroccan lanterns to minimalist sconces, each fixture should complement your space's overall aesthetic, or least not clash with it.
This includes the material your lighting fixtures are made from. For example, stainless steel is a chic addition to modern spaces while brushed brass gives a more rustic feel.
Also consider how your lighting features illuminate your space. The right lighting doesn’t just help you see your plate, it affects the entire tone of the meal.
Prioritize soft, layered lighting in your dining area, avoiding anything too harsh. Think string lights overhead, solar lanterns along the path, candles at the table, or cordless lamps tucked into corners.
Your design choices should also be as practical as they are for your indoor living spaces. While your lighting fixtures do add to the aesthetic, outdoor spaces are meant to be lived in, so function is just as important as form.
Make sure all dining areas and frequently trafficked walkways are well lit to keep things safe if you're dining after dusk.
Nature should be your co-host in any outdoor dining experience. Whether you're surrounded by trees or nestled in a courtyard, weaving in natural elements is what brings your dining space to life.
Think climbing vines on pergolas, flowers tucked into patio corners, and planters flanking the dining area. If you're short on time, placing a few fresh-cut flowers in a vase on your table is a fast and foolproof option.
And if you live in a unique environment, don’t be afraid to put it center stage. Think cacti and sand if you live in the desert or a nautical theme if you live in the New England area.
Furniture is the second layer of outdoor design. First you lay the groundwork with hardscaping, then you layer in your furniture before adding the finishing touches like centerpieces and dining wear.
Comfort is non-negotiable when selecting furniture, because not even the most gorgeous dining set will get used if it’s not comfortable. But also think beyond basic utility and select pieces that reflect the style you're going for. Refined and timeless, rustic and relaxed, coastal, modern, or somewhere in between.
Look for well-crafted, durable materials like Grade A teak or metals that can withstand the elements.
For extra versatility, choose pieces that can be dressed up or pared down with accessories, like classic styles in timeless materials.
Never underestimate the power of a great table setting. It’s the details that guests remember most.
Feeling rustic one day and whimsical the next? Swapping out your dishware and utensils is also a quick way to change the entire style of your outdoor dining area with not a ton of effort, especially if you’ve chosen versatile furniture that can go with any style.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
A well-chosen centerpiece anchors the table and ties everything together. Just be mindful of the height. You want to spark conversation, not block it. Here are a few ideas to play around with:
Whether you're going for relaxed and rustic or elevated and elegant, layering the right textiles and linens pulls everything together and adds softness, depth, and color.
Here are a few ways to use them:
Color sets the mood, so be intentional with your colorway—subtle or bold, relaxed or refined. Soft neutrals feel serene. High contrast feels bold. Even a few saturated accents can make the space feel more alive.
Here are a few ways to play with color:
Do you want your space to feel open, airy, and minimal—or lush and layered? You can always keep the base clean day to day, then add dimension with extra décor when hosting. Not everything has to live outside full time.
Maximal: Think layers of patterned textiles, Moroccan rugs, bold plants, sculptural lighting, and personal accents for a curated, expressive look that’s easy to tuck away between gatherings.
Minimal: Go for minimal, clean-lines and a pared down color scheme. Think natural wood, neutral linens, and a single statement piece.
And finally, something personal. It doesn’t have to be big. In fact, the smallest gestures often make the biggest impression.
Here are a few ideas to add your own signature:
It’s unexpected touches that make your table feel less like a setup and more like a personal space to connect.
A well-designed outdoor dining space doesn’t just look beautiful—it invites you in. Whether you’re planning quiet morning coffees or lively summer dinners, the right mix of setting, scale, and style turns everyday moments into something memorable. With thoughtful details and enduring materials, Ash & Ember helps make those moments easier to create—and even harder for your guests to forget.
Explore Ash & Ember’s Outdoor Dining Collection or our line of Grade A Teak furniture, crafted to elevate everyday moments and make every gathering unforgettable.
