Citrus Summer...

How to bring a taste of Mediterranean style to your garden

When the weather is warm and dry, there’s nothing better than spending time in the garden, making the most of the space that’s on your doorstep. Bring the experience of dining out to your very own patio, with some simple styling touches to elevate eating al fresco.

Wayfair’s Resident Style Advisor, Dee Fontenot shares ideas and inspiration for outdoor summer dining...

Al fresco summer tablescape

The art of laying the table is definitely in the detail. Layering smaller plates on top of dinner plates and giving each guest cutlery for each course will add a sense of occasion. An essential piece of decor for any tablescape, a linen or cotton runner will bring a focus to the centre of the table whilst also protecting outdoor furniture from spillages and stains.

Think about individual place settings and the table centrepiece as a whole, and how they can work together to create the overall look. Fold neutral linen napkins and add to each plate, placing a sprig of greenery and fresh lemon half for an effortless yet elegant - and aromatic - place setting. Instantly adding the Instagrammable factor, run off cuts of garden greenery or freshly foraged foliage down the centre of the table. Weave in between rustic serving boards and drape gently down the edge of the ends of the dining table for a super simple homemade runner.

Blend indoors and out

Gone are the days of bland, outdated garden furniture. With a huge variety of designs to choose from, with wood, metal, rattan and more, most sets would look just as good inside as they do out, with designs inspired by interior furniture. The appeal of dining outside on trips abroad is often how relaxed and effortless it feels. Bench seating can save space and often allows you to squeeze in extra guests without the need for more chairs. A bench set up is a perfect choice to suit a number of different styles and garden sizes.

Style and comfort

Delicious food and drink is certainly one important factor for outdoor dining, but comfort is just as key. For day time dining in gardens that get plenty of sun, a parasol will provide some welcome shade and protection - particularly helpful in the event of unexpected rain showers, given how unpredictable British summers can be! Outdoor cushions and throws or soft furnishings borrowed from indoors will cosy up hard seating for garden get-togethers, providing an extra layer for guests to use as the evening cools. All products available at Wayfair.co.uk