If you’re someone who loves spending time outdoors, it’s important to explore your furniture layout and outdoor seating options. Whether you plan on entertaining others, or just yourself, the right outdoor seating arrangement can make or break your patio space.
Depending on the size of your outdoor space, it’s a good idea to find a seating arrangement that is comfortable for guests and reflects your personal style. If you’re ready to get creative and maximize your outdoor space, we have some seating suggestions that are ideal for a variety of patios and decks.
If you have a large backyard, patio, or pool, lounge seating is a great way to welcome and include all of your guests. By building one large master seating area, you’re informing your guests that this is a space where they will enjoy great food and conversation.
Lounge areas are designed to extend your outdoor space - so if you have a screened-in porch, this isn’t going to be an optimal seating arrangement for your limited square footage. The key is to structure your outdoor lounge so it’s both inviting, yet definitive. Something like a wrap-around sectional, or comfortable chaises, are ideal for large gatherings.
If you don’t have a large outdoor space, consider creating small conversation nooks instead. Two comfortable Adirondack chairs or rocking chairs grouped around a coffee table are still inviting, and perfect for a couple who want to share a few drinks outside.
The key to these small seating arrangements is to make them as comfortable as possible. Place an outdoor rug beneath your chairs to make it feel like an extension of home. Add a patio umbrella, luminaries, outdoor seating cushions, and other accessories to make the space feel more open and inviting. It might not be ideal for large parties, but it’s the perfect furniture arrangement for couples.
If you’re always hosting large family gatherings, the dining area is an important part of your patio. If everyone plans on sitting and talking for hours, you need to make your outdoor seating arrangement as comfortable as possible.
Opt for high backed outdoor chairs that provide a more comfortable seating arrangement for your guests. These chairs are perfect for tall relatives and friends that might need more support. Plus, you can continue to entertain comfortably from the table all evening long.
If you don’t have the space for high backed seating, opt for benches instead. Everyone can gather together and share a meal, but you won’t have to worry about whether or not you have enough chairs. Just be sure to find comfortable and accommodating bench cushions, so your guests can relax throughout the meal.
One of the best outdoor features you can have in your backyard is a gas fire pit or coffee table. Because this accessory provides so much light and takes up plenty of space, it’s important to create an open and inviting seating arrangement. However, sometimes space can be limited - you have to get creative with your seating.
If you can fit a small loveseat and informal lounge chairs around a rectangular fire pit, you’ll be able to entertain comfortably. Alternatively, use oversized seating to make the space feel more comfortable, even though there isn’t as much room for a large group of guests. Adirondack chairs are ideal for these types of seating arrangements.
If you have a front porch, don’t forget to make the most of this lovely space. Don’t just install a porch swing - include a few rocking chairs, side tables, and even a bench. It will enhance your home’s curb appeal and serves as another entertainment area for family and friends.
Front porches are also great for ottomans, which can double as a seat, footrest, and coffee table when you have guests over. The front porch will still feel open and inviting, but not too cramped with furniture.
If you’re struggling to find ways to make the most of your space and outdoor living furniture, just talk to one of our designers to see which seating arrangements work best for your backyard.