THE HOUSE DIRECTORY'S ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO OUTDOOR DINING

THE HOUSE DIRECTORY’S ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO OUTDOOR DINING

In the second part of our outdoor blog series, we’re focusing on the joy of al fresco dining. Here, we’ve asked The House Directory members for all their tips and advice on tablescaping, dining set trends and how to choose your furniture with confidence.

Tablescaping Trends

“When designing an outdoor tablescape, the current approach is towards tables that feel layered, elevated, personal and expressive with different textures, materials, prints and colours,” says Birdie Fortescue. “Florals are key, both in terms of fresh arrangements and on block-printed textiles, such as our nasturtium tablecloth and nasturtium napkins. Layered pattern with more geometric accessories such as our woven rattan pieces, for example, the large string vase or round jute placemats, both of which bring warmth and tactility.”

“Candles will bring a soft glow and extend the get together into the evening. Using candlestick holders at different heights and in varied colours creates a visual rhythm, and using coloured candles as accents will to finish the look. Colourful or painted glassware also adds an element of fun. Avoid overcrowding the table, and make sure to leave space for sharing plates.”

The Nasturtium Collection by Birdie Fortescue — *The Santísima Collection by Birdie Fortescue*

Editors Picks – Cool Ice Buckets

Wrapped in buffalo leather embossed with a repeat pattern, this stainless-steel bucket from OKA has an antique-effect brass finish. £150, OKA

Crafted in India from brushed stainless steel, this elegant set from The Conran Shop is a timeless design that will never go out of fashion. £140, The Conran Shop

Taking inspiration from the sidewalk cafes of Paris, this glass bucket from Anthropologie is guaranteed to make a statement. £56, Anthropologie

Chill out in style with this fun lobster ice bucket from John Lewis, that will keep ice frozen for over five hours. £45, John Lewis

With its sleek design, this stainless-steel bucket and scoop from West Elm is an essential bar tool for amateurs and professionals alike. £70, West Elm

This generous champagne bucket from Fortnum & Mason comes in signature Eau de Nil with beechwood handles for easy carrying. £75, Fortnum & Mason

“We are seeing a return to classic teak as the value of sustainable, high quality FSC-certified woods is being recognised far more,” says Heather Hobbs, creative director at Indian Ocean. “There is a greater appreciation of the beauty and warmth of natural wood – it makes people feel relaxed and comfortable, which in turn, facilitates good conversations around a table. Contrary to popular opinion, teak is easy to maintain. We recommend allowing it to weather naturally to silvery grey.”

*The Burhnam Collection from Indian Ocean*

“Green furniture continues to be a firm favourite with customers, who are choosing it over black – as seen with this season’s launch of Tom Dixon’s Groove collection in moss,” says Sabina Miller, buying director at Heal’s. “For bistro dining sets, 65% of customers have been opting for green, compared to 35% sales for the black colourway.”

Editors Picks – Chic Outdoor Dining Sets

The Scroll 4-seater set by Oxley’s can be finished in any RAL colour and is made from carefully treated aluminium to ensure longevity. From £5485, Oxley’s

Clean-lined and simple, this 3-piece set from Garden Sanctuary would be perfect for an urban garden or sun deck. £399.99, Garden Sanctuary

Ideal for informal drinks or a candlelit supper this set from Holloways is made from powder-coated aluminium and weather-resistant, polyester rope. £965, Holloways.

Years of research have gone into this furniture from A Place In the Garden, which is based on traditional 19th century designs from the town of Arras in France. £595, A Place In The Garden

This set by The Heveningham Collection is handcrafted to order, with tabletops in granite, limestone, marble, sandstone or glass. POA, The Heveningham Collection

Designed for comfort and durability, this sintered stone set from Barker & Stonehouse features sturdy frames and chic woven details. £1525, Barker & Stonehouse

Inspired by British campaign furniture, this versatile range by Summit Furniture embodies the style found in classic yacht interiors. POA, Summit Furniture

Materials, Shapes & Styles: Outdoor Furniture Trends for 2025

from Encompass

“As we embrace summer 2025, outdoor furniture continues its evolution from a functional necessity to a design statement,” says Simon Ray, managing director at Encompass. “This year’s collections are defined by a harmonious blend of natural inspiration, sculptural form and material innovation.”

Ceramic table tops with marble and granite-effect finishes are so convincing they rival the real thing, offering durability without compromise. The sculpted frame and ceramic top of Carver table by Gloster perfectly capture this theme.

Royal Botania's Carés teak chair — *Rope detailing and woven accents, as seen in the Royal Botania’s Carés teak chair, whose Sage and Desert finishes evoke sun-bleached landscapes.*

*Sculptural seating, such as the Royal Botania Ostrea dining chair, whose intricately scalloped form mimics the curves of an oyster shell.*

*RODA’s Teseo teak dining collection celebrates artisanal techniques through distinctive cord stitching, which binds each naturally oiled teak slat.*

Expert Furniture Buying Tips

from Simon Ray at Encompass

Look for:

Weather-resistant materials like powder-coated aluminium, ceramic, and responsibly sourced teak.
Quick-dry cushions with UV-stable fabrics — comfort without compromise.
Modular flexibility — pieces that adapt to different layouts and occasions.
Sustainability credentials — recycled materials and responsible sourcing are increasingly important.

Avoid:

Untreated wood or low-grade rattan that may degrade quickly.
Overly trendy colours that may date — opt for timeless neutrals and layer in seasonal accents.
Bulky, non-stackable designs if space is limited — portability is key for urban gardens and terraces. Folding or stackable furniture doesn’t mean compromising on comfort & style

If you missed part one of our two-part Outdoor Living guide click here : The Essential Guide to Outdoor Living

Click here to read more inspiring and informative blog posts from our members.

Subscribe to be the first to receive TheHouseDirectory.com’s monthly blogs and design news.

Get Listed to reach thousands of potential new customers each month and join our established community of interior and garden design brands and businesses.