5 Types of Outdoor Dining and Lounge Sets You Should Get In 2023

In the summer months, your outside dining and entertaining space becomes an extension of your home. When the warm weather hits, it’s much more pleasant to be outside in the fresh air than in the stuffy living room.

Depending on your space, you might only have room for a small dining set suitable for two, or you might be lucky enough to have room for a large ten-seater dining table. So, how do you know what will work best in your space and what kinds of outdoor furniture should you be buying in 2023?

Below we have compiled a list of five of the best outdoor patio dining sets and outdoor lounge furniture. These sets combine flexibility of use, style, and build quality to ensure that they can stand the test of time and exposure to the elements, maximizing your investment and keeping your outside space looking its best for years to come.

Classic teak outdoor dining set

Teak outdoor furniture is popular and highly sought-after for many due to its durable material. Unlike soft woods such as cedar and pine, teak will not rot, warp, or split when exposed to high moisture levels. Teak is easy to clean and treat with a semi regular coat of oil or varnish, and like most woods, can actually start to look better with age (given some basic maintenance).

The Rio Teak Dining Table and Chairs.

Teak dining sets for 4 are ideal for small gardens, yards, or even balconies. Bigger versions, such as teak dining sets for 6, 8, 10, or even 12 are ideal for larger entertaining spaces.

Sectional or corner sofas

If you have the space, then other than outdoor dining, you should also consider creating an outdoor lounge. By using three-seater sofas and a couple of chairs, you can create a great entertaining space for you, your family and friends.

But why stop there? Why not use sectional or corner sofas to establish a really relaxing outdoor space that you can make your outdoor home during the summer months?

@emilywelchstyle lounges on the Sorrento Outdoor Sofa. Also pictured: Sorrento Lounge Chair and Sorrento Coffee Table.

The beauty of sectional sofas is that they can be formatted in the best way to suit your space, and you are able to change them around to suit the occasion or when you rejig your outdoor lounge. Corner sofas also create a natural conversation space, especially when situated around a central coffee table or even a fire pit. You can complete the seating circle aesthetic with accent chairs or armchairs in the same design.

Poly rattan lounge set

Poly rattan is another popular material used in outdoor furniture thanks to its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. It is resistant to moisture, mildew, and UV rays, which makes it perfect for outdoor use. Rattan furniture is also lightweight and easy to move, making it ideal for homeowners who like to rearrange their outdoor space often.

Poly rattan is treated to combat the effects of the elements, and also has the benefit of a more natural looking appearance. Unlike traditional rattan, which needs a fair amount of care and attention, poly rattan is very hard wearing and is generally available in a huge range of outdoor configurations, in both lounge and dining sets.

Furthermore, rattan has a natural look and feel, which complements different furnishings to create a cosy and comfortable outdoor space.

Modern and minimalist

The garden being a space of nature seems to lend itself to more rustic styles, which is why wood and wrought iron have always been popular. But attitudes change, and garden furniture in 2023 (as it has been for a few years now) is leaning towards a more modern and minimalist appearance.

New materials and developments in treatments means garden furniture is now available in a big choice of modern finishes, such as stainless steel, aluminum and more. So, why not choose a more sleek and stylish modern option this summer, with steel and tempered glass dining table sets for 6 or more?

The Sorrento Dining Table with 6 Chairs is the perfect minimalistic design for your outdoor space. Picture credits: @tinadoodles

Monochrome colour schemes provide a neutral canvas onto which you can add bursts of colour with accent pillows or other accessories. But keep the colour and material choices to a maximum of three for the most impact in your outdoor space.

Bistro sets

Whether you have a small yard or huge garden space, everyone can benefit from bistro sets. These are cosy two-person table and chair sets that create a great little breakfast or lunch spot in any home.

Even if you have an existing eating or lounge area in your garden, a tucked away bistro set opens up another option for more intimate experiences. Small enough to tuck away under the shade of a tree, or on a small patio space, bistro sets are available in a huge choice of design styles, from classic wrought iron to modern steel and glass. And they’re easy to store too, so when the weather turns, you can quickly fold down the table and chairs and put them in a dry place ready for next year.

Ultimately, the best outdoor furniture is that which works in and enhances your space, giving you the flexibility to be comfortable at home by yourself and with the family, but being stylish enough to host guests too. Having a dining set outdoors creates a separate entertaining space and the best lounge outdoor furniture will be enticing all summer long.