Adding a table to your garden is the perfect addition to your outdoor space. If you have decking or patio installed, I’d go as far as saying that a table is a must. It lets you extend your living space and sit outdoors eating dinner in the afternoon sun. You can host gatherings with friends, or just sit down as a family enjoying the good weather – when there is any!
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No two garden tables are the same and you have plenty of options out there. With that in mind, this little guide will help you learn how to buy the perfect table for your garden:
Consider your garden style
What style or theme do you currently have in your garden? Or, what theme are you trying to replicate? This impacts the type of garden table you’re going to buy. If you have a lot of metal fixtures everywhere, along with metal or black lighting, then a metal outdoor table makes sense as it matches everything.
If your garden offers more relaxed and minimalist vibes, going for something that falls into this category will be a smarter idea. It’s all about figuring out the style that suits your outdoor space.
Think about how big the table should be
Next, you need to decide how big the table will be. The main consideration is how many people you have in your home. You should get a table that’s big enough to seat everyone in your house, then perhaps add some extra space for any guests.
Of course, you also need to take into account the size of your garden. This can impact the shape of your table. If you need a big table, but you have a small garden, opting for a circular table can be a great way to ensure practicality while also saving space.
Here’s another idea: look for tables that can extend or rise. These are great for people who host guests. You can keep the table small when it’s just you and your family, but open it up if you have people around. Bramblecrest Garden Furniture have a great selection of adjustable garden tables that would be perfect for any occasion.
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Pair the table with the right chairs
Normally, you can buy a garden table and then purchase the chairs separately. This means you can technically mix and match the chairs and the table. However, this can often create situations where the table and chairs clash so badly.
Instead, make sure you’re pairing the table with the right chairs. Get chairs that replicate the style and are made for that table. Also, think about getting creative with the chair selection. Maybe get two chairs on one side of the table, and a bench on the other?
Get some accessories
No garden table is complete without a few key accessories. One thing you should look into is an umbrella for the table. Contrary to what umbrellas are usually used for in the UK, this one is actually to keep the sun away from the table. It helps you remain shaded and cool when you’re eating or trying to enjoy yourself outside. Obviously, be sure you get an umbrella that fits the table – if your table has an umbrella hole. If not, you can buy ones that sit on the side and arch over the table.
Furthermore, you should also get some lighting for your table. When it gets dark, you need to be able to see what you’re doing. Other garden lights will be useful, but bagging yourself some rechargeable outdoor lights that sit on the centre of the table is a wonderful idea. It illuminates the space and creates a warming light that sets the perfect mood for the evenings.
Ensure the table is made for outdoor use
Finally, and to be honest this should’ve gone at the start, but make sure the table is made for outdoor use. You can’t buy a nice dining table and stick it outside. Yes, it may look gorgeous. Yes, it may make your garden look so much better – but it shouldn’t be outdoors. Outdoor furniture is specifically made to be weatherproof, so it doesn’t get badly damaged by rain or bad weather. If you put indoor furniture in your garden, you’re going to ruin it and waste a lot of money.
After all of that, you are now in a position to buy the perfect garden table. I will add one last point; don’t be afraid to spend a bit more on something of better quality. Plastic garden tables are super cheap, but will they last? You want something that looks stunning but also stands the test of time.
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