How to Create an Autumnal Outdoor Dining Space
Here in Florida, “fall” is something we only see and hear about in movies or from photos on Facebook, but still, the idea of fall is romantic. We visualize changing leaves, cooler weather, and a general embracing of everything cozy and comforting.
And we want it!
Maybe cooler temps are not quite here yet, and maybe we do not have the bejeweled, rolling hills of our northern neighbors, but the outdoor dining season is upon us, and boy oh boy, Floridians know a lot about that!
Are you ready to bring your dining out into your Florida room, your yard, or onto your porch? Here are some outdoor dining area ideas to help set the stage for all the perfect Florida nights that are coming our way. It may still feel like summer right now, but that does not mean you can’t create the coziness of a fall-themed, outdoor ambiance.
Set the mood
Outdoor lighting is the best way to create a romantic atmosphere in your garden. Soft, glowing light coming from multiple areas like tree-mounted lights, flickering floor lanterns, and a warm uplights, bring just enough visibility to dark areas while boosting the cozy factor.
Add Plants
We have to face it, we live in Florida and none of us have a fall-colored accent wall dripping with changing leaves. What to do? How about a container wall? Bring a hit of fall color with some potted chrysanthemums. Bedding varieties are often sold budding or just beginning to bloom, in nurseries this time of year. Other options to consider: pansies in rich fall colors, golden black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), bronze-leaved coral bells (Heuchera spp.), or ornamental grasses.
Setting the perfect table
Feeling like you are not capable of conjuring enough cool feelings to make your Florida room, “autumnal”? Bring in some help by throwing a fall-themed dinner party. Do not be afraid to go all-out with decorations — flowers in fall colors, metal accents, candles down the length of the table, and (even if you have to get silk ones at a hobby shop), lots of fall leaves scattered about. Put out linens in deeper colors to make all the bright golds, oranges, and reds, stand out. Also, try draping throw blankets over the backs of the chairs, because, who knows? Maybe it will get cool out! Stranger things have happened in Florida, that’s for sure!
Floor coverings
The floors of patios and decks are often cold and bare and for good reason! Outdoor floors need to be weather resistant and easy to clean, but covering the floor with an outdoor rug makes the space feel perfect when you are trying to create coziness. A rug will define a space and add comfort. String some lights overhead and it will feel like you got the best garden seating at your favorite restaurant.
For more great tips, browse our online catalog or come in and talk to one of our trained, home décor consultants.
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