Sometimes the best place to put a 4-seater patio set is obvious or options are limited. However, if you have several options then finding the perfect position can become a dilemma.
We recently looked at how to choose the perfect 4-seater set but we also have a simple formula to help you find the best spot:
Sun + Shelter + View + Access + Surface + Space + Style + Function = The perfect position for your 4-seater patio set!
1. Sun
Do you like to sit in the sun or keep cool in the shade? Observe how sunlight moves through your garden throughout the day. Decide if you prefer a sunny spot for morning coffee or an area shaded from the afternoon heat. If you prefer to keep your cool, then look at positioning your furniture in the shade of existing trees, buildings, or structures. You can also add a parasol, pergola, or awning if your chosen spot lacks any natural shade.
2. Shelter
The wind can be a problem in the UK. Consider wind direction and choose a spot that is sheltered from strong winds. If your outside space is too open, structures like walls, hedges, or tall planting can act as a natural windbreak. If you want to enjoy your outside space, even when the British rain threatens to dampen spirits, look to position your patio furniture under structures such as a pergola or awning or pair our furniture with our water-resistant parasols to provide shelter.
3. View
If you’re lucky to have a view beyond you’re garden, then position your garden furniture to take advantage of it. Alternatively, choose a location within your garden, whether it’s a large tree, flower beds, a water feature, or a scenic part of your garden. Avoid spots with unsightly views, such as a compost heap or brick wall. Also, be mindful of privacy and try and pick a location that offers seclusion from neighbouring windows or street views. If you have no choice, look at ways of screening or brightening up with strategic planting.
4. Access
Proximity to your home is another important consideration in finding a good position for your patio furniture. For example, you should look to place a patio table set within easy reach of the kitchen, if you plan to use it for dining and general entertaining. This makes it convenient for carrying food and drinks outside for you and any family or guests. Also ensure there are clear, safe walkways leading on, off and around your outdoor space too.
5. Surface
If you plan on carrying stuff outside to your garden furniture, then you want to avoid areas with too many steps or rough or uneven ground. Choose a level area to place your patio set to prevent wobbling and ensure comfort. Our chairs and tables come supplied with screw-in plastic feet that protect the furniture and your patio surface. However, it also allows for minor adjustments to level on uneven surfaces. If the ground isn’t flat, then you may need to level it or build a raised deck platform. Avoid areas that are prone to water pooling. Good drainage is essential to keep the area dry, comfortable and ready to use.
6. Space
Planning for size and scale is a subject we covered in detail in How big is a 6-seater garden table set? and When is a small garden table & chairs set too small?. You need to ensure the spot is spacious enough to accommodate the garden furniture (in this case a patio table and 4 x patio chairs) and allow for comfortable movement around it (what we refer to as working space). The patio set itself should be proportionate to the space. A large set in a small garden might look overwhelming, while a small set in a large area could look a little lost. Strike a good balance to create harmony!
7. Style
Try and choose a spot that complements the overall design and style of your garden. You want your 4-seater patio set to blend seamlessly with the existing patio materials, landscaping, the style of your home, and the key design features. If your garden has a specific theme (e.g. modern, rustic, coastal), then position the patio set in a way that helps to best enhance the theme.
8. Function
While style is important, you want the furniture positioned in a functional spot. Think about practical considerations such as access to utilities and proximity to amenities. If you plan to use outdoor lighting or heating, position close to a power source. If you want your garden furniture located close to an outdoor cooking area, then consider the availability of suitable locations. Ensure the area is easy to maintain and keep clean, and try to avoid spots under trees that drop a lot of leaves or sap, thus increasing the need to clean to use.
Our final thoughts on finding the best place for your new garden furniture…
Before making any final decision on the perfect position for a 4-seater patio set in your outdoor space, experiment. Try setting up your patio furniture in a few different locations to see how they feel at different times of the day. The great thing about our cast aluminium range is that it has a robust feel but is light enough to pick up and move.
If you can’t decide, then ask for some input from any design-savvy friends or family members. You want your chosen spot to be comfortable, so even the smallest tweaks such as moving the set off-centre, for example, can make a huge difference to the look, feel and flow of your patio.
That said, there are no right and wrong answers. Personal preference is essential. The best location is the one that gets you outside and using your patio space the most. However, by carefully considering our simple Sun + Shelter + View + Access + Surface + Space + Style + Function formula, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect position in your garden for your new 4-seater set that’s stylish, inviting and functional.
If you have any photos of your 4-seater patio set in the perfect spot, we’d love to see a few for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload Here.
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