Designer FAQs: Outdoor Dining Tables & Chairs
What’s included in an outdoor patio dining set?
An “outdoor dining set” refers to an outdoor dining table and a group of chairs. At Ethan Allen, you can build your own outdoor dining set, one item at a time, using pieces like—
- Outdoor dining tables in round, square, or rectangular shapes (we offer a range of table sizes including extendable options)
- Outdoor dining armchairs that look great at either end of a rectangular table
- Outdoor dining side chairs that save space to fit more guests along your table’s sides
- Outdoor dining benches that create a casual country or cottage vibe
To get a better idea of what furniture will work for you, measure your space’s length and width, then input those measurements into our at-home 3D room planner. Select the “outdoor” or “patio” options to start designing.
You can also try our complimentary interior design service. Our professional interior designers can also help you translate your ideas into a personalized patio dining set.
Can I mix and match my outdoor dining table and chairs? Will they look good together?
Our outdoor dining tables and chairs are designed for mixing and matching; for example, the teak elements of our Bridgewater Cove outdoor dining table and our Marteena outdoor dining side chairs make them feel coordinated, while Marteena’s woven strap seat and back adds textural contrast.
Create your own curated look and download our EA inHome® app to get an instant preview on your mobile device; if you need advice, just ping Designer Chat. You can also check out our shoppable outdoor living and dining spaces for ideas.
What is the best material for an outdoor dining table?
For patio dining tables and chairs, we offer outdoor frames crafted from one of three durable, weather-resistant materials:
- Powder-coated aluminum combines the timeless look of a metal frame with modern comforts like rust resistance and easy cleaning; just hose and wipe down with a clean cloth.
- All-weather woven materials have a handwoven look while also resisting the elements. We have furniture with basketweave style elements, rush weave panels, and frames wrapped in all-weather cording.
- Grade A Plantation Teak is sustainable, durable, and beautiful. Just be aware that teak’s appearance changes as it ages. Over time, it develops a silvery patina and its grain may evolve as it reacts with the elements, but these aesthetic changes don’t impact your furniture’s durability.
Visit a Design Center to see and feel these collections for yourself. If you’d rather shop at home, you can also order finish samples online.
Are extendable outdoor dining tables worth it?
If you need the flexibility to extend your outdoor dining table for entertaining a crowd, then buying a table with an extension leaf is definitely a good idea. Make sure you verify the table’s measurement with the extension leaf added before you order, so you can ensure it will be a fit for your outdoor dining area at any size.
What about outdoor dining chair cushions?
We make our outdoor dining chair cushions in the same workshops where we make our upholstery. Ethan Allen artisans tailor every cushion by hand using your favorite of our 150+ custom outdoor fabrics; our most popular selections are online, but you can see even more in our Design Centers.
All our outdoor fabrics are fade and UV resistant, and many are are bleach cleanable.
How do I keep my outdoor dining table and chairs looking nice?
Artisans craft our patio dining furniture to last for many seasons of enjoyment, with the right amount of care. Here are a few steps you can follow:
- Bring cushions inside with you when you’re not using your furniture.
- Purchase custom-fit outdoor furniture covers to protect frames from the elements.
- For end-of-season maintenance and cleaning, check each piece’s product page or download our Use & Care guide.
How can I decorate my patio dining area so it feels as luxurious as my indoor rooms?
Indoor décor can inspire you as you decorate your outdoor dining space. Here are some ideas:
- Outdoor rugs in neutrals like cream or beige or bold hues and patterns can define your space’s personality. Ours are crafted to be weather and stain resistant.
- Faux outdoor plants can add a pop of greenery or create privacy around your space’s perimeter.
- To enjoy the ambience of a flickering fire, add an outdoor fire table. A designer can help you determine whether your outdoor space has sufficient overhead and side-to-side clearance.
- You can also keep yourself and your guests shaded with a patio umbrella.
- You can also decorate with your favorite indoor items—florals, vases, and jars, make lovely centerpieces—but just remember to take them inside with you, as they’re not designed for extended outdoor use.
I have a small patio. Can I still create an outdoor dining set?
Create a private patio dining area with a pair of barstools and an outdoor bistro table, or a square table and a pair of chairs. Then, add some accents—like a cozy rug—to help define your space.
Do you have more questions? Click the Designer Chat icon, or contact your local Design Center—we’re happy to help!