We’ve not done an outdoor bistro table article yet this summer, which is unusual for us as we love our 2-seater collection. They are the perfect addition to your outdoor area if space is limited or you want to create an intimate outdoor dining zone.
A bistro set is space-efficient and compact, making it the ideal choice for alfresco dining on smaller patios, balconies, or cosy corners. Our collection features a range of different colours, styles and designs, that will enhance the look of your outdoor area and add a touch of charm and elegance.
They are the perfect versatile set for a host of activities too, such as enjoying a morning coffee with a friend, a romantic evening meal with a loved one, grabbing some me time with a good book, or setting up the laptop when working from home.
Due to the smaller table size, bistros are much lighter than our larger outdoor dining tables. Easier to pick up, you can reposition them to follow the sun or shade, rearrange your outdoor space, and store or move them to a more sheltered part of your garden in bad weather.
Our garden bistro tables are made from the same high-grade cast aluminium as our larger garden dining tables, so they are durable, weather-resistant, and low maintenance. They provide a lot of functionality for a great price and are the perfect type of set to get you outside and spending more quality time in your outdoor area.
What is the outdoor bistro table style?
Before we look at our favourite styling tips, we should define what we think the main characteristics of the outdoor bistro table look are.
For the design team here at Lazy Susan, when we think of our bistro collection, we think of a casual and charming dining atmosphere, often reflecting the relaxed and intimate vibe of a small chic Parisienne café.
The star of the show is the furniture and how it is styled and positioned. A small, round table, with two lightweight, often stackable or foldable garden chairs placed somewhere intimate and cosy.
Garden bistros should be durable and easy to move, so the cast aluminium we use across our collection is perfect in terms of style, weight, low maintenance and suitability to the UK climate.
When it comes to accessories and decor, ambience is key. Think string lights, lanterns, and candles to create a warm, inviting glow when the sun starts to set, paired with simple and elegant decor, such as potted plants, fresh flowers, and decorative table accessories to up the charm.
The layout on your patio should feel cosy, so ideal if outside space is limited, if not, then fake it by placing tables and chairs in a corner or secluded part of the garden to foster a sense of intimacy and privacy.
For the colour scheme, we would keep things chic, simple and natural. Think earthy and neutral tones paired with our antique bronze finish, and maybe a vibrant accent colour to add a little pop and personality.
The great thing about bistro style is that it can adapt to both an urban and rural setting as the focus is on an up-close casual dining experience, so pair our 2-seater bistros with some simple but high-quality food and drink with an emphasis on the rustic and locally sourced.
In essence, an outdoor bistro-style should combine practicality with a charming, relaxed feel, to create a space in your outside area that will encourage you to make the most of the summer and enjoy some laidback al fresco dining and social interaction with a loved one.
Why we should style our patio bistro tables?
Decorating your garden bistro table (or any size outdoor table for that matter) will significantly enhance your outdoor living experience in terms of style, function, enjoyment, entertainment, flexibility, creativity, and practicality:
1. Bistro Style
In a small space, a well-decorated garden bistro table can become the focal point, adding to your outdoor space's overall beauty and charm. In a larger area, you can create a more intimate dining zone or a quiet corner for two.
By decorating the table, you can reflect what the space means, express your style, and make it uniquely yours.
2. Bistro Area Function
By adding simple touches such as cushions and throw blankets, or upgrading to one of our more comfortable garden chairs, you can make your bistro table more inviting and enjoyable to use.
Stylish storage solutions such as garden cabinets or functional accessories like covers can help keep the space and your furniture clean, tidy, and well-organised.
3. Bistro Enjoyment
A beautifully styled table will create a more enjoyable and relaxing atmosphere, encouraging you to spend more time outdoors.
Thoughtful decorations like soft lighting and the right planting will enhance the ambience, making your patio the spot to dine and unwind in the summer.
4. Bistro Flexibility
Keep things fresh and interesting by rejigging the bistro table position or configuration.
Change the decor according to the season or time of year or decorate the area based on themes you like such as a coastal or farmhouse feel.
Don’t be afraid to experiment to find a style that works with your home, or garden, or that gives your patio bistro a distinct character and feel that works for you.
5. Bistro Creativity
The process of decorating should be a fun and creative activity, ultimately providing you with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
A beautiful outdoor space can positively impact your mood, making you feel happier and more relaxed.
There is no right or wrong, you do you. If you like a large centrepiece on a small bistro table, then we would encourage you to go for it!
6. Bistro Practicality
As well as looking good, good style can also be practical. Add elements that will make the space more usable. Using outdoor-specific materials that will stand up to the elements and wear and tear.
A well-styled and decorated bistro table will make the space more appealing, encouraging you to use it more frequently for dining, reading, working, or simply relaxing.
By taking the time to decorate and style your bistro furniture, you will create an inviting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space that enhances your overall outdoor living experience.
How can we style a 2-seater bistro set for al fresco dining?
Making your new outdoor bistro table from Lazy Susan look nice on your patio should be a fun and creative process too.
Here are some of our favourite ways to enhance the appearance and integrate your bistro set into your outdoor space:
1. Bistro Decor
Whether entertaining a friend for morning coffee or serving a delicious evening meal to a loved one, a well-set bistro table can make all the difference.
Use an attractive tablecloth or stylish placemats to add colour and texture. Opt for weather-resistant fabrics that are easy to clean.
When and when not in use, add a stylish centrepiece, such as a potted plant, a vase with fresh flowers, a decorative bowl, or a candle holder. Seasonal decorations can also add a festive touch at Easter or Christmas time.
Choose appealing outdoor tableware, including plates, glasses, and cutlery. Coordinated or contrasting colours can make the table setting more visually appealing.
2. Bistro Comfort
We would always add cushions to our garden chairs to make them more comfortable and inviting. Choose a colour from our collection that complements the table and the surrounding decor.
A cosy throw will add warmth and texture, making the space feel more inviting, and they’re great if the temperature dips on an evening when the sun starts to set.
You could also place an outdoor rug under the table and chairs to define the bistro area and add interest and comfort underfoot.
3. Outdoor Lighting
Hanging some string lights around your patio or above the bistro table is another great way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the evening.
Alternatively, you can place a lantern or candles in the centre of your bistro table or around the patio.
Some subtle outdoor lighting will provide soft, ambient lighting and enhance the overall look and mood of your bistro area.
4. Bistro Planting
No matter the outdoor table size, surrounding it with plants and greenery is a must for the team here at Lazy Susan.
A bistro table might be our smallest set size but it needs to be positioned alongside potted plants, hanging baskets, or a small herb garden to add natural beauty and fill the space with wonderful aromatics.
Plant seasonal flowers, bright colours, and accessories to keep the space feeling fresh and relevant.
5. Bistro Function
If your patio gets a lot of sun, then we would also recommend you add a parasol umbrella to provide shade and protection from UV rays. Our How to protect your 4-seater patio furniture set from the sun looks at this in detail.
Please choose one of our 2.5m parasols in a colour that best matches your bistro table and chair set or the colour scheme in your garden.
You could also add small side tables for extra functionality. They can be used to hold drinks, snacks, or decorative items and free up space on our smaller bistro tables for dining.
6. Bistro Personality
Hang garden art, bird feeders, wind chimes, or decorative elements nearby to enhance the ambience and reflect your style.
Consider a theme for your patio decor, such as coastal, boho, classical, or rustic. Coordinate the bistro table decor with this theme for a cohesive look and feel.
7. Bistro Table Maintenance
Lastly, regularly wipe down surfaces, wash cushions, and sweep the patio as needed.
The best to keep your outdoor bistro table looking nice is to keep it clean and well-maintained so the space is always fresh and inviting.
If you have any photos of your outdoor bistro table, then we’d love to see a few photos for our Do Some Good campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload Here.
