Designing a large outdoor area may seem easy.
When you have a lot of space, you can think anything is fine.
Instead it is always good to keep in mind the following tips to be able to furnish it with functionality, elegance and balance between the size of the furnishings and passages.
Una funzione ad ogni area
Plan what function each area of the terrace or garden you are going to furnish should have.
In this project of mine that you see in the pictures, I have delimited spaces with specific functions:
area with dining table: near the kitchen, so that it is easily accessible
dustbin area: even closer to the kitchen, so you don’t have all the bins at home all year round. This area must be properly hidden with a custom-made piece of furniture or by choosing design bins. Nobody ever thinks about it, but for me it is essential to have the dustbin outside and not in the kitchen!
conversation area: dedicates a conversation area separate from the dining area
sunbeds / swimming pool area: no whirlpool or small swimming pool has been included in my project, but I have nevertheless reserved a space for sunbeds
- area with dining table: near the kitchen, so that it is easily accessible
- dustbin area: even closer to the kitchen, so you don’t have all the bins at home all year round. This area must be properly hidden with a custom-made piece of furniture or by choosing design bins. Nobody ever thinks about it, but for me it is essential to have the dustbin outside and not in the kitchen!
- conversation area: dedicates a conversation area separate from the dining area
- sunbeds / swimming pool area: no whirlpool or small swimming pool has been included in my project, but I have nevertheless reserved a space for sunbeds

How much privacy do you need?
Fundamental point to understand in which area you will / will want to insert appropriate coverages to guarantee privacy.
In my project, there is a need for privacy in the area where you see the conversation area with sofas and the lounge area.
For the conversation area I chose a self-supporting gazebo in painted aluminum, which has the possibility of adding curtains, in order to protect also from the sun and any slight wind. The structure is from Kettal.
On the sides of the gazebo, I opted for two design screens from the brand Roda.
Always guarantee the right coverage for the dining area
If you want to enjoy breakfasts, lunches and dinners outdoors, you need to guarantee the right coverage of the dining area.
Possibly a cover with motorized awning, which can be opened and closed if necessary, even on the most exposed side.
Don’t forget about lighting
Outdoor lighting is just as essential as home lighting! otherwise at sunset you will find yourself no longer seeing your face.
The dining area must have a diffused and homogeneous lighting, you must be able to see well what you are eating.
The conversation area can have softer lights but must still guarantee a good view.
Waypoints or planters can be highlighted by spotlights on the floor.
In my project, the outdoor wall lamps are by Flos, while the tables that transform into (wireless) lamps are by Vibia.