TRANSFORMING HOMES SINCE 2007
PART OF THE EXPRESS GROUP
DEDICATED SUPPLY & INSTALL SERVICE
How to Create a Welcoming Alfresco Dining Space
Lifestyle
Whether you’re planning a relaxed weekend lunch or a garden gathering that lingers long into the evening, having a welcoming alfresco dining space makes it easy to entertain outdoors. But what is alfresco dining exactly? Simply put, it means eating in the open air: something we don’t do often enough in the UK. With a little thought and the right set-up, your outside space can become the perfect setting for shared meals, good company and long summer evenings. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Alfresco Dining Setup: What to Consider
1) Location and Layout
When planning your alfresco dining space, location and layout go hand in hand. A spot near the kitchen or living area helps things run smoothly, especially when serving food or topping up drinks. The easier it is to move between inside and out, the more enjoyable hosting becomes. If your garden connects to an open-plan kitchen or dining room, all the better. Sliding doors or bifold doors can be opened fully to let the spaces flow together, keeping you part of the conversation even when you’re up and about.
It’s not just about proximity. Think about access. Is there a clear path to your chosen spot, or will you be navigating steps and obstacles? Even with small garden ideas, careful planning can turn a tight corner or patio into a practical outdoor dining area. A veranda or glass canopy can help define the space while offering some cover, while softening the transition from home to garden. “It doesn’t matter if you have a compact patio or an expansive garden. With the right layout and outdoor features, any space can be your perfect alfresco dining spot,” says our Managing Director, Steve Bromberg.
2) Sheltered Spot
Given the unpredictable British weather, a reliable sheltered area is one of the first things to consider for any alfresco set-up. A pergola or veranda provides a comfortable dining area while offering protection from wind, rain or strong sun. Our aluminium bioclimatic pergolas come with adjustable slats, so you can adapt to shifting conditions, letting in natural light when the weather’s kind, or offering shelter when it turns. With options like built-in heaters and LED lighting, it’s easy to keep guests warm and the atmosphere welcoming long after the sun goes down. Alternatively, a carport or fixed glass canopy can offer a more robust cover for seating or buffet-style arrangements, giving your outdoor dining area a flexible, year-round appeal.
3) Lighting
The right lighting brings warmth and character to any alfresco dining setting, especially as daylight fades. A few well-placed lights can make the space feel relaxed and inviting, encouraging guests to linger into the evening. Festoon lights strung across a fence or pergola add a cheerful glow, while lanterns or solar-powered lights placed around the garden provide gentle background light. Candles on the table, in jars, lanterns or holders, also help set a calm and welcoming mood.
If you’re considering a pergola, our bioclimatic aluminium pergolas come with integrated LED lighting. You can adjust the brightness as needed, making it easy to move from dinner to drinks without disrupting the atmosphere.
4) Garden Furniture
High quality furniture is key to making the most of your alfresco dining area. Look for hardwearing materials that can cope with the UK climate. Aluminium, teak and synthetic wicker are solid options, easy to maintain and made to last. At our Leeds showroom, we stock Garden Trading’s exclusive range of weather-resistant pieces, ideal for hosting outdoors without the fuss. Be it a compact bistro set or a large table for family feasts, the right furniture can help turn your garden dining ideas into something you’ll actually use throughout the year.
5) Tablescape
Your table is the heart of the alfresco dining experience, so it’s worth adding a few thoughtful touches to lift the setting. You don’t need anything over the top. A simple linen runner or cotton tablecloth gives a soft base, while napkins, ceramic dishes, and a few bud vases with herbs or seasonal blooms bring character without clutter. For evening gatherings, soft lighting makes all the difference. Candlesticks, low planters, or even tealights in old jars can add a warm glow and make the table feel welcoming well after sunset.
It also helps to plan the table around the type of food you’ll be serving. Alfresco meals often lean towards sharing, so think salads, grilled vegetables, dips or picky plates. Having a good selection of platters, bowls, and utensils makes it easy for everyone to tuck in and sets a relaxed tone from the start. It’s not just about appearance. A well-considered table helps the whole evening flow more naturally and encourages guests to settle in and enjoy it.
6) Thoughtful Accessories
Small details can make a big difference when it comes to alfresco dining. Simple touches like soft seat cushions, footstools, or an outdoor rug add comfort and help guests relax, especially if the temperature dips later in the evening. A basket of blankets nearby gives people the option to wrap up without needing to head indoors. Using similar colours and textures across your interior and outside seating area also helps the space feel more considered. Whether it’s matching cushions, coordinated tableware or consistent finishes, those details pull everything together and make the whole setting feel calm and inviting.
Additionally, for larger gatherings, a self-serve drinks station is a great way to keep things moving. It doesn’t need to be complicated. A tray with glasses, fresh herbs, ice and a few pre-mixed options is enough to let guests help themselves. It keeps things relaxed and gives the host a chance to enjoy the moment too.
An alfresco dining area doesn’t need to be large or elaborate to feel special. With a few smart design choices and considered details, you can design an outdoor space that’s easy to use and enjoyable to share. Whether it’s a quiet breakfast outside or a lively evening with friends, the right set-up makes it all feel effortless. From layout and lighting to materials and mood, each decision helps bring the space to life. So, take your time, plan with purpose, and turn your garden into a space where memories are made, whatever the season. Explore the Exterior Spaces collection of bespoke pergolas, verandas, and glazed structures in our showroom or online, and talk to our expert sales team to find the perfect garden solution that will redefine your alfresco dining space.
