Hello everyone, Meg here!
We’re quickly approaching summer. Days are feeling warmer as the evenings get brighter, but we aren’t quite in the Summer season yet. That also doesn’t mean that spring isn’t a good reason to have fun. I’m sure you’ve heard of the term “Dining alfresco”, although it’s not a direct translation from Italian. It’s often referred to as “Dining in the cool” or “Outdoor dining”.
Although if you were to use the term “al fresco” in Italy, you could be asking to dine in jail. So be careful!
We’ve seen plenty of our customers use our products to create the ideal outdoor dining scene. Since Spring is the ideal season for Al fresco dining, I wanted to create a collection of examples to inspire you on the essentials for outdoor dining.
The Shelter
Of course, Al fresco dining doesn’t require any shade. But it’s a known health benefit to stay in the shade if you’re outside for long periods of time. Our gazebo range covers a range of styles and sizes:
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- Our Barbara Log Cabin Gazebo is one of the few in this style of gazebos, perfect for transforming your garden corner. The Log Cabin Gazebos are the ideal size for a corner sofa and coffee table. Perfect for the more casual dining events.
Our team here at Tuin can all agree that the warmth from Larch timber is very aesthetically pleasing. That’s why a fair amount of our Gazebos also have a Larch twin. For those that want to bring warmth in their garden.
This Samos Larch Gazebo has been modified with the Larch Cladding wall infills, but it’s an ideal way to add some privacy to your outdoor dining set up.
We also understand that not everyone desires the apex roof type, for a more modern garden we also have some Modern Pent Roof Gazebos.
Get all the family around the table with the Excellent Modern Gazebo – Measuring at 5.92m in length, you can host your alfresco experience for everyone, while gaining the envy of the neighbours. This Gazebo had been modified with See Through Walls for an extra level of privacy and sun shading.
The Seating
Now that we have our shelter covered – What about the seating?
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- You can find the ideal set up with our Create Your Own Garden Dining Set. This product page allows you to pick either a modern or rustic styled table in a number of styles. As well as choosing the number and style of wicker chairs to complete the set – Ideal for when you host large dinner parties.
The Heating
Even in the summer evenings, a chill may dampen the dining atmosphere, so why not think ahead with a heating solution? We have a range of Garden Heaters that would be compatible with your gazebo, from freestanding to overhead heaters.
The Decor
Now that you have the essentials for your outdoor dining space, now it’s time to decorate it. A lot of our customers stick with a theme when decorating our garden buildings and gazebos. From traditional shabby chic to Bohemian Fantasies, here a few of the best decor examples I have found:
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- Alternatively, you could use the soft furnishings to add a pop of colour to your setup. Reds, Oranges and Blues would make a bold contrast against our wicker furniture.
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- Another idea is to introduce more natural elements to blend the scene in with your garden. Like with this Curved Lattice Gazebo where the customers introduced both planters and hanging baskets for subtle, but definitely effective pops of colour.
The Menu
So now that the area has been set up, with all the finishing touches. I’m certain that your dining area looks great… But what to serve alongside it? I personally would go for a Teriyaki Salmon Noodle dish to get those taste buds in action, and pair that with a fruity pinot noir on the side.
Is al fresco dining not just for you? Why not take a look at our Log Cabin Pubs inspiration post, or maybe you would prefer looking at how our products can be utilised for Hot Tub Covers.
