Arranging furniture strategically can help create an inviting atmosphere on any size patio or screened porch, from large covered spaces to intimate nooks. Use a floor plan to map out how pieces will fit together before moving them about.
Martin recommends choosing a dining area table with rounded ends at both ends to maximize seating capacity without feeling cramped, while bistro sets with two chairs may work better in smaller spaces.
Pools and Firepits
Patio furniture arrangements often center on a pool, fire pit, water feature or another entertainment amenity as their focal point. When designing such an arrangement, consider which seating arrangements you will need for guests and how people will move into and out of the area.
Consider whether the focal point should be symmetrical or asymmetrical – formal arrangements tend to feel more formal while more casual arrangements tend to feel less so.
If your patio will serve as a place for dining and drinking with friends, designing the seating arrangement accordingly is key to its success. A dining table and chair set often makes an excellent choice when combined with table covers to protect it from spills and other weather-related damages.
Planning a patio layout around a firepit requires seating that echoes its shape for an aesthetically pleasing result. Circular firepits are best, though square or rectangular ones will do as well. To add coziness, add pillows and throw blankets for additional seating options.
Add character and distinction to any patio furniture layout by including woven accent pieces like a hammock or daybed in your design scheme. Not only can these versatile items double up as seating and sleeping arrangements, they’re also the ideal way to relax after an exhausting day in the sun!
If you have limited patio space, choose layouts that maximize seating capacity while permitting effortless movement. A sofa-and-chair setup works particularly well in small spaces and can even be combined with additional storage or surface area in the form of side tables or coffee tables for additional surface area or storage solutions. To further make the area inviting and make extra seating available, add throw pillows or stylish poufs as extra seating solutions.
Conversation Areas
Conversation areas are an effective way to encourage socializing and networking in your backyard. These spaces can be created by grouping chairs, settees and sofas together in various parts of the patio furniture layout or by using an anchor like a fire pit or coffee table as the focus point for this conversation area.
The ideal conversation areas can be found tucked into corners or situated near focal points such as firepits or scenic views. Two Adirondack chairs tucked beneath a tree provide an inviting spot for intimate discussions, while four chairs in an “X” formation are ideal for larger group exchanges. A simple seating arrangement such as two chairs and a table provides the ideal place for sipping morning coffee or taking in sunset views.
Establishing conversation areas goes beyond simply placing seating furniture; it involves setting an atmosphere with lighting, cushions and fabrics to set the scene for your gatherings. A pergola adds additional structure.
As you arrange your patio furniture, consider how the space will be used – dining, entertaining, lounging and sunbathing are among the most common activities – before clustering seating pieces into functional groups for their intended functions – dining area, seating around fire feature or sunbathing station. Symmetrical arrangements create formal atmosphere while looser ones lend to an eclectic look.
Dining
A patio can serve many functions; not just lounging and entertaining. Consider your intended usage for the space before choosing seating arrangements that best meet that purpose – for instance if you plan to eat outdoors occasionally but mostly want an intimate reading and conversation area, try opting for a sofa with chairs rather than daybed for more intimate conversation zones and adding a dining table in the center for meals.
Focal points in your patio furniture layout draw the eye and create a sense of balance, whether that’s through tables, fireplaces or entertainment amenities such as water features. While their placement might vary from symmetrical to asymmetrical designs, they should always stand out and become an eye-catching centerpiece of your design.
Bench seats provide an effective and cozy solution to expand seating capacity while remaining comfortable for three or more diners. For a more casual environment, sofas with loveseats make an inviting alternative that provides seating capacity for two individuals.
Lounging
Patios can serve many functions outside of entertaining; whether that is reading, napping or just basking in the sunshine. If you plan on using the space for multiple purposes throughout the day, make seating your number one priority and consider how much seating will be necessary.
If space is at a premium, investing in a sofa and chair set is an easy and stylish solution to maximize what little available room there may be. A classic combination with coffee table makes for the ideal lounging area that allows for quiet moments alone or stimulating conversations among family or friends.
A lounge area featuring a loveseat and two chairs can make for an excellent space-saving solution, providing extra seating capacity in the same amount of space as a sofa. Add a coffee table and outdoor pillows for an inviting lounge spot perfect for enjoying morning coffee or an evening glass of wine while watching the sunset!
Large sectional patio furniture allows you to easily create separate areas for lounging, tanning and dining. This arrangement enables you to keep a dining area distinct from lounging so you can easily transition between zones as the day unfolds.
Once you have an idea for how you will arrange your patio furniture, the next step should be lighting. Lighting plays an essential role in creating an enjoyable and secure outdoor experience; when selecting lighting for any patio setting the mood and creating a safe atmosphere. When choosing lighting consider what kind of patio space you have: string lights or outdoor candles can add intimate ambience; for more relaxing environments an outdoor floor lamp offers sufficient illumination without taking over too much of the room.
