When it comes to enhancing your outdoor living area, few pieces of furniture can rival the combination of functionality and style offered by outdoor and patio bar tables.
These versatile pieces of furniture elevate the aesthetics of your outdoor space while providing a perfect setting for social gatherings, casual meals, or simply enjoying a drink in the sunshine.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a morning coffee, or creating a cozy corner to unwind, the right bar table can transform your patio or garden into a welcoming, stylish oasis.
In Australia, where outdoor living is an integral part of the lifestyle, having an outdoor space that blends comfort and style is essential.
According to the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Australians spend a significant amount of time outdoors, with many homes featuring spaces designed for relaxation, dining, and entertainment
For many homeowners, finding the perfect outdoor furniture, including patio and bar tables, is key to creating a space that feels as inviting and functional as the inside of their home.
Why Choose an Outdoor Bar Table?
Outdoor bar tables are increasingly popular for a number of reasons. Here are some of the main benefits of incorporating a bar table into your patio or garden:
- Space-Saving Design: Patio bar tables often feature a compact design that can comfortably fit into smaller spaces. With elevated height, they allow for more seating options without taking up too much room, making them perfect for apartments or smaller outdoor areas.
- Enhanced Social Space: Bar-height tables are perfect for socializing, creating a casual and relaxed vibe that’s ideal for outdoor parties or intimate gatherings. They provide a more laid-back and interactive setting compared to traditional dining tables.
- Versatility: Outdoor and patio bar tables can be used in a variety of settings – whether it’s for casual dining, drinks, or as a functional display for plants or decor. Many styles come with matching stools or chairs, which enhance both comfort and style.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Unlike indoor furniture, outdoor bar tables are built to withstand the elements. Made from materials such as teak, aluminium, and wicker, they are designed to resist moisture, UV rays, and wear, ensuring that your investment lasts for years.
Materials to Look for in Outdoor Bar Tables
When choosing the right outdoor bar table for your space, the material is one of the most important considerations. Here are some common materials used for outdoor and patio furniture:
1. Teak
Teak is one of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture due to its natural beauty and exceptional durability. Known for its rich golden tones, teak is resistant to weathering and pests, making it a top choice for outdoor bar tables. As the wood ages, it develops a beautiful silver-grey patina, which enhances its rustic charm.
Teak bar tables are perfect for a coastal or traditional outdoor setting. They provide a timeless elegance and are incredibly sturdy, capable of withstanding even the harshest weather conditions.
2. Aluminium
Aluminium is lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust, which makes it a great option for outdoor furniture. It’s perfect for modern or minimalist outdoor designs, and it pairs well with both contemporary and traditional decor. Aluminium bar tables often feature powder-coated finishes that add an extra layer of protection against the elements.
This material is also highly versatile, as it can be finished in a variety of colours and styles. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a sleek, clean look that is easy to maintain.
3. Wicker or Rattan
Wicker or rattan furniture provides a relaxed, beachy vibe and is ideal for coastal homes or gardens. These materials are lightweight yet durable, and they offer a more casual, relaxed aesthetic. While traditional wicker can wear out over time, modern wicker furniture is made from synthetic materials designed to withstand the elements.
Wicker bar tables often come with comfortable cushions, making them a perfect choice for a laid-back setting. They work well in tropical, rustic, or contemporary environments and pair beautifully with lush greenery.
4. Stainless Steel
For a sleek, modern look, stainless steel outdoor bar tables are hard to beat. Known for their contemporary feel, stainless steel tables are resistant to rust, corrosion, and stains, making them ideal for year-round outdoor use. They are incredibly easy to clean and maintain, which is perfect for those who want to avoid regular upkeep.
Stainless steel works well with glass or wood accents, making it a versatile material that can complement various design styles.
5. Concrete
For a more industrial or urban look, consider a concrete outdoor bar table. Concrete is incredibly sturdy and can stand up to harsh weather conditions. Though heavier than other materials, concrete tables make a statement with their sleek, minimalist design. They’re also highly durable, making them perfect for areas with frequent foot traffic or heavy use.
Where to Buy Outdoor Bar Tables
With the popularity of outdoor living spaces in Australia, finding the perfect patio and bar table is easier than ever. Whether you prefer shopping at local showrooms or browsing online, here are a few top places to check out for outdoor bar tables:
- Bunnings Warehouse
Known for its wide range of home and garden products, Bunnings Warehouse offers a selection of affordable outdoor bar tables. Whether you’re looking for something classic or modern, Bunnings carries various materials like timber, metal, and glass that are perfect for Gold Coast patios, balconies, and gardens.
Their outdoor furniture options are practical, functional, and designed to withstand the Australian climate. Check out their website or visit one of their stores to explore their collection. - Freedom Furniture
For those seeking stylish and contemporary outdoor furniture, Freedom Furniture has an extensive range of outdoor bar tables that cater to different tastes and budgets. Freedom offers pieces made from durable materials such as aluminium, wood, and wicker, ensuring both comfort and longevity. Their tables also come in various sizes, perfect for intimate gatherings or larger outdoor spaces. - Outdoor Living Direct
As the name suggests, Outdoor Living Direct specializes in outdoor furniture. With a focus on quality and functionality, they offer an impressive selection of outdoor and patio bar tables made from weather-resistant materials. They also provide matching chairs and stools, so you can create a complete bar setting for your patio or garden. - The Patio Shop
If you’re looking for high-quality, custom-made outdoor furniture, The Patio Shop is an excellent option. They offer premium outdoor bar tables crafted from durable materials, such as teak and metal, that can be tailored to suit your space. The Patio Shop is perfect for those who want to invest in long-lasting furniture that adds a touch of sophistication to their outdoor area. - Olive Grove Furniture
For those seeking a stunning range of both traditional and modern outdoor and patio bar tables, Olive Grove Furniture stands out as a top choice. Renowned for its premium, durable outdoor furniture, Olive Grove offers a wide selection of outdoor bar tables that seamlessly blend style and practicality. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of rustic wooden designs or prefer the sleek appeal of contemporary metal finishes, Olive Grove’s pieces are designed to endure the challenges of the Australian climate while providing exceptional comfort and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy, intimate setting on your balcony or set up a larger outdoor entertaining area, Olive Grove’s outdoor bar tables offer a perfect combination of timeless style and lasting durability.
Tips for Styling Your Outdoor Bar Table
Once you’ve selected the perfect outdoor bar table, the next step is styling your space to make it both functional and inviting. Here are a few tips for styling:
- Add Comfortable Seating: Pair your bar table with comfortable stools or chairs that suit the height and design of your table. Consider adding cushions or throws for extra comfort and style.
- Use Outdoor Rugs: To define the space, consider adding an outdoor rug beneath your bar table. This can help anchor the area and provide a cozy, lived-in feel.
- Add Lighting: Outdoor lighting can set the mood for evening gatherings. Consider string lights, lanterns, or LED garden lights to illuminate the area around your bar table.
- Incorporate Greenery: Adding plants or flowers around your bar table can bring life and vibrancy to the space. Opt for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants like succulents or palms for a tropical vibe.
An outdoor or patio bar table is the perfect way to enhance your outdoor space, whether you’re hosting parties, enjoying family meals, or relaxing after a long day.
With the right table, you can create a functional yet stylish area that invites relaxation and socialization.
Whether you choose a modern stainless steel table, a rustic wooden design, or a sleek aluminium piece, there’s a bar table to suit every taste and outdoor setting.
