Creating a Cozy Outdoor Dining Area: Expert Design Tips

Creating a cozy outdoor dining area will help make the most of your space outside year-round. Transforming your outdoor space into a cozy outdoor dining area can be done with a bit of preparation and some creative brainstorming and imagination.

Clean and declutter your surroundings

Diving into some spring cleaning is one of the first tasks you'll want to take on before you begin adding cozy outdoor dining furniture and decor to your surroundings. Decluttering your yard and defining the area you intend to use for your outdoor dining area will help you gather your thoughts for a brainstorming session.

Brainstorm themes and color schemes

Once you have a designated area to work with for your cozy outdoor dining area, spend a bit of time considering themes and color schemes that align with your vision for the space. Some themes and schemes you may want to consider might include:

Rustic/country: Reclaimed dark, stained woods, rustic furniture, and traditional decor create a warm, comfy, inviting atmosphere.

• Bohemian: Bohemian decor, light blankets, hanging accessories, and warm tones create a modern yet airy, cozy dining space.

• Sea-themed: If you're creating a cozy outdoor dining space on the coast, going with sea-themed decor, wicker furnishings, and wooden centerpieces can provide the natural atmosphere you're searching for outside your home.

Choosing the right lighting

Selecting the lighting for your cozy outdoor dining space will set the tone and mood for your yard's atmosphere. Common lighting elements that are used outdoors include basic pathway lights (solar or battery-powered) along with lanterns and traditional candles. If you're looking for a more unique layout of lights, you can opt for string lights that can be hung overhead for a warmer and more festive environment.

Table and furnishing selection

Consider the size of the table and the materials you prefer for your outdoor dining area in advance. This will help with f