Gracious outdoor living - Beauty, Ease and Comfort

By Richard Hartlage, Associate Principal AHBL

There is no doubt we are creatures of comfort. When considering making outdoor spaces, there are no more powerful draws than food and fire.

Humankind has been sitting around fire and sharing meals to build social connections for millennia. We haven’t changed all that much. When we design gardens for clients the most important spaces we create are the spaces where they will break bread with family and friends.

When planning your dining space, size, material and location are important considerations. It is essential the dining space be graciously sized. The appropriate size varies from family to family. If you are a couple and never entertain more than another couple then a table of four will be adequate.  If you have a large family or entertain large groups, then your patio or deck will have to accommodate a table that seats eight, ten or even twelve people.  Stable flooring, whether wood, stone or concrete, is a critical element. There is nothing worse than chairs sinking into soft ground and muddy feet. You will not use the dining space if it is not practical and comfortable. If you are planning a new garden, locating the dining space near the kitchen for immediate access is a practical consideration.  When planning an outdoor kitchen, the possibilities are endless. You can spend as much on an outdoor kitchen as an indoor kitchen. It is a budget driven choice that ranges from the classic Weber charcoal hibachi to more extravagant Viking grill, warming oven, refrigerator, ice maker and a pizza oven. It is also important to think about counter tops for food preparation and serving al fresco. These can be built-in or movable buffets. I like to hide cooking equipment behind these counters so that the presentation on the dining side is attractive and visually clean.

Comfortable furniture is essential. There is wide range of product available from cheap and cheery to significant investments. I like dining chairs with cushions or pads for two reasons -- they add comfort and visually warm the space. These can be custom made from a gigantic selection of outdoor fabrics that are truly sumptuous. These outdoor cushions use fast draining foam inserts so you don’t have to drag them in and out. If you are more budget conscious, pick up pre-manufactured pillows and cushions. They are widely available and add depth, color and intimacy to your outdoor dining experience.

Fire has become the single most requested component in outdoor lounging and living areas. Fire gathers people and is appealing to all age groups. Clients are always surprised when their teenagers suddenly start inviting friends over to sit around the fire. The blaze of a crackling wood fire is relaxing and hypnotic and with a bottle wine for the adult members of the family long hours can be whiled away. For kids and the young at heart, there is nothing more fun than smores! If gooey marshmallows and chocolate are going to be a planned activity, easy to clean surfaces or a more casual character are important considerations. When you have the option, gas fire features are a great choice. No need to lug kindling and logs – just a flick of the switch and you have instant atmosphere. Fire features can range from economical fire bowls to fire pits and elaborate fireplaces.

For both outdoor dining and lounging spaces, think about accessories for added warmth and intimacy. Planted pots add color and texture. Candles and rechargeable tea lights add ambiance after dark. Small side tables create versatility for places to set snacks and drinks. I like to mix and match occasional and side tables from various furniture lines to create a more casual and inviting feel. Carefully placed found objects further create a warm effect and reflect your personal style.

Great outdoor living spaces start with good planning. Remember to ask yourself: What is the relationship to the indoors? How you will I use the space? What size dining area do I need? What would be appropriate paving material? What am I willing to spend? Answering these questions for yourself will ensure your outdoor space is a place you and your family will enjoy for years.