Making Better Use Of My Restaurant’s Outside Space

With warmer months approaching and customer demand for al fresco dining on the rise, now is the perfect time to rethink how you use your restaurant’s outdoor space.

Whether you have a spacious terrace, a small pavement area, or a hidden courtyard, your outdoor dining space is valuable real estate. When thoughtfully designed, it can attract footfall, increase seating capacity, and elevate your brand's overall experience.

Here’s how to make better use of your outdoor space with practical, stylish, and revenue-boosting ideas—starting with smart contract furniture choices.

1. Understand Your Space and Its Potential

Start by assessing your outdoor area:

• How much space do you have?

• Is it exposed or sheltered?

• What are the busiest times of day?

• What’s the footfall like?

Even compact outdoor areas can be transformed with clever planning. Think of it as an extension of your indoor space—not just somewhere to scatter a few tables.

2. Choose the Right Outdoor Contract Furniture

Your outdoor furniture needs to be more than just stylish—it must be durable, weather-resistant, and commercially rated.

Look for:

• Aluminium or powder-coated steel frames (rust-resistant and lightweight)

• UV-resistant finishes to prevent fading

• Stackable chairs for easy storage

• Heavy-duty tables that won’t wobble or blow over

Tip: Choose wipe-clean surfaces and materials that are easy to maintain between sittings.

3. Add Shade and Shelter

To make your space usable in more weather conditions, think beyond just sunny days.

Add:

• Parasols or umbrellas for sunny spots

• Pergolas, awnings, or sail shades for year-round cover

• Windbreakers or planters to create natural barriers

These features don’t just provide comfort—they help define your space and make it feel like a destination.

4. Incorporate Smart Layouts and Flow

Outdoor areas should be easy to navigate for both staff and customers. Create zones that make the most of your space:

• Two-tops for high turnover and solo diners

• Communal tables or benches for a casual, sociable vibe

• Lounge areas with low seating for drinks or desserts

Avoid clutter and make sure there’s enough space for servers to move between tables easily.

5. Use Planters, Lighting, and Decor to Elevate the Vibe

Outdoor furniture is the foundation—but the right finishing touches make it feel intentional and welcoming.

Consider:

• String lighting or wall-mounted lamps for evening ambience

• Potted plants or herb boxes for greenery and fragrance

• Outdoor rugs or decorative dividers to define the space

These extras create an atmosphere that customers remember—and share on social media.

6. Choose Seasonal Accessories for Flexibility

Want to use your outdoor space all year round? Stock seasonal accessories like:

• Blankets or throws for chillier evenings

• Outdoor heaters for extended use into spring and autumn

• Cushions with water-resistant covers for comfort and style

These additions make your outdoor area more comfortable and increase the time customers are willing to spend there.

7. Boost Visibility from the Street

Your outdoor setup is a marketing opportunity. Make sure it turns heads and draws people in.

Use:

• Branded parasols or signage

• Stylish, coordinated furniture

• Menu stands, A-frames, or specials boards

• Window boxes or statement planters

Your outdoor area should reflect your interior brand style—cohesive design builds customer trust.

8. Understand Local Rules and Regulations

If your restaurant’s outdoor area is on public land (like a pavement or plaza), check local council guidelines for:

• Furniture sizes and layout

• Licensing requirements

• Hours of use

• Permitted fixtures (e.g., heaters, parasols, fencing)

Non-compliance can lead to fines or forced removals, so it's worth doing your homework early.

Final Thoughts: Turn Outdoor Dining Into an Experience

Your outdoor space is more than just a place to eat—it’s part of the customer experience. With the right furniture, layout, and atmosphere, you can create an inviting area that’s comfortable, stylish, and profitable.

Quick Checklist: Making Better Use of Your Outdoor Space

Use commercial-grade, weather-resistant furniture
Create shade with parasols or awnings
Define zones for seating and flow
Add plants, lighting, and decor for ambiance
Check local regulations and permissions
Keep accessories seasonal and comfortable

Looking to upgrade your outdoor furniture for the new season?
We supply high-performance, contract-grade outdoor furniture tailored for the hospitality industry. From stackable seating to weatherproof dining sets, we’ll help you make the most of your outdoor space. Get in touch today to start planning.