Outdoor furniture for flawless al fresco vibes.
There’s nothing quite like dining al fresco. Whether you’re carving out some morning ‘me time’ with a quiet coffee or hosting a fancy-pants dinner party for all your favourite people, fresh air makes everything taste better.
But before you can break out the plates, cutlery and party tunes, you’ll need the right outdoor furniture: something functional yet inviting, durable yet low maintenance. Your outdoor space should feel like an extension of your indoor space, so it’s essential to match your style with your vibe.
There are many elements to consider: do you have an itty-bitty balcony or a big backyard? Will your new outdoor furniture set be exposed to rain or humidity? Are you budget-conscious or willing to get a bit spendy?
Fear not, fellow foodies! We’re here to help you choose the perfect outdoor furniture that’s both aesthetic and practical, so you can soak up the sunshine in style.
So, grab a glass of your fave bevvy, and let's dive in.
Outdoor dining settings for any sized space.
Let’s start with the big stuff. You might think outdoor dining settings are only for backyards, but we’ve also found plenty of compact options perfect for balconies and patios.
No matter your outdoor area size, you’ll want to get the dimensions right. It should be big enough for what you need (are you hosting full dinner parties or just having a couple of besties over for snacks?), but not so big it hogs all the space.
A hot tip: before you hit ‘add to cart’, grab your trusty tape measure to check your guests will have enough room to move around. Aim for about one metre of moving room on each side of the table.
Let's talk about materials. You’ll want your fancy new set to last the distance, so make sure to pick the best materials for your climate.
Living in the humid subtropics? Metal is your new best friend. Made from steel and glass, Kmart’s 7-piece Outdoor Dining Setting is a neutral and super durable option. And bonus points for being massive and outrageously affordable, so you don’t need big bucks for a big party.
Chillin’ down south? Hardwoods like acacia are dense and weather resistant – perfect for rain and those up-and-down temperatures. Barbecues Galore’s Elwood 3-piece Bench Setting in acacia has a slatted design, so the rain won’t collect and pool on the top. Because gross pooled water is the wrong kind of pool.
And another tip: outdoor furniture covers are a very worthy investment. They’ll protect your set from the elements and keep it looking fresh for longer.
Comfy, cute and practical outdoor chairs.
If you’re working with a smaller outdoor space, a complete outdoor setting might be a bit big and bulky. Some comfy AF outdoor lounge chairs might be more your vibe.
The right chairs can look oh-so-cute, even on the littlest of balconies. And since they’re less bulky, they create a sense of spaciousness, so you can bask away in style and comfort without feeling like your patio is cluttered.
Wicker outdoor furniture is everywhere right now. It’s back from the 70s in a big way, baby, and having a serious moment. Durable, weather resistant and perfect for every climate – what’s not to love?
With a UV-resistant frame and a comfy cushion, Temple & Webster’s Elba PE Rattan & Aluminium Outdoor Dining Chair gives you the luxe wicker look. Just kick back, cocktail in hand, and dream you’re in a Hawaaian tiki bar.
If timber is more your style, Kmart’s Timber Bench is made from beautiful and durable eucalyptus wood – throw some cushions on, and you’ve got yourself a gorgeous outdoor reading nook.
Trés chic outdoor accessories to complete your look.
Once you’ve got your furniture sorted, it’s time to style! Colourful cushions, pretty tableware and twinkling lights add the perfect finishing touches to your outdoor oasis.
Textiles are the easiest way to bring in some of your personal style. Cushions, pillows and napkins add texture, dimension and colour. Just make sure you have somewhere to store them between uses, so they don’t get all cobwebby and wet.
Start by adding a pop of colour with Zaab Homewares Coccoon Melange Outdoor Cushion. With four sophisticated shades to choose from, they’re worlds apart from the tacky, flamingo-covered outdoor cushions of old. In fact, they’re so lovely you’ll want to use them indoors.
Next, add some napery. You deserve to get a little fancy here. Bed Threads’ French Flax Linen Scalloped Placemats in Sage & Olive will make every outdoor meal feel like a special occasion (yep, even your microwaved leftovers). They’re so subtly fancy you’ll feel positively European every time you sit down to eat. Ooh là là.
And lastly, because friends don’t let friends sit under harsh lighting, add some budget-friendly whimsy with Kmart’s Pendant Festoon Lights. These warm Edison-style LED bulbs provide a soft, ambient glow, so you and your buds will look amazing in selfies.
Dine al fresco in style with Afterpay.
Bring your outdoor party vision to life without blowing your budget. Shop durable, long-lasting outdoor furniture for any sized space with Afterpay.
Cheers to good food, good friends and good vibes!
(And a bonus pro tip: if you can’t find what you need on our list, check out the Bunnings outdoor furniture range. With furniture, cushions, umbrellas and more, they’re basically an outdoor dining wonderland.)
