3 Piece Patio Sets
I have several small spaces in my outdoor areas. Having several different Small 3 Piece Patio Sets to choose from for morning coffee or an afternoon tea is what I have in these areas. Just a few minutes and I can change the table or chairs.
In this article, I will write about the different styles and how you can use a bistro set in your outdoor area. Many people will use a bistro set around their BBQ area to have someplace to sit and have an adult beverage while cooking the family meal.
What I will show you is that you do not have to buy a set to make your small outdoor area usable. Now let us look at my information.
Styles and materials for bistro sets
Not all of my sets are the traditional two metal chairs and a small table. On the front porch area, I have two swivel rockers with sling fabric. I change the table during the warmer months, I have a plant table out there now. The chairs are medium priced and the sling fabric lasts very well in outdoor conditions.
On the small deck at the camper, I have the more traditional metal bistro set. Two chairs and a 24-inch round table. I can have coffee in the morning while looking at the sunrise over the water. These are the least pricey of the bistro sets, they will need to be repainted every few years, and adding cushions will make sitting for a long time more comfortable.
I have a friend that has a resin wicker set. It does take up more space and costs a lot more. Most of the resin wicker sets will have seat cushions for comfort, this will require some kind of storage to make the cushions last more than one season.
Wooden wicker sets will be more like the metal sets. Most of the time the chairs will not have motion. You will need to spend more on cushions to make this a long term sitting area. Wooden sets will need refinishing at least every other year to stand the outdoor conditions. Sanding, power washing, and putting on a weatherproof finish will take about a day of your time. The better the type of wood the higher the purchase price you will pay. Some teak or eucalyptus sets can be very pricey, they will last a lifetime with proper care.
Why use a bistro-style set for small spaces
Why not just get a lawn chair for your small space and not spend the money on a bistro set. Having a set of chairs and a table that is left in the space for you to use whenever you need it will be better than trying to find and get your chairs out of the trunk of the car when needed.
If you live in an apartment or condo on the higher floors with a balcony, you will want something that you leave out as storage space will be at a premium. Most condo's or apartments do not have a garage or shed for winter storage of outdoor furniture. Having a small bistro set that you can leave out and requires little care will be a great benefit for this group of people.
Having a lake property that you have little space for furniture will make having a small bistro set very comfortable. I use mine every time I go to the lake.
I do have a set of wooden chairs that I use on my front porch sometimes. The chairs fold for storage and make a perfect set for someone that cannot leave their furniture out and does not have a lot of storage. I did pick these up a yard sale for $8 for the pair, not very pricey, just add a side table and there you go.
Some accessories for bistro sets
If you are looking for shade so that you can use your set during the day, an umbrella or awning will work. Some people do not own their space so they cannot add an awning. I would suggest a half umbrella for small balconies or patios. See some of my shade options here.
Although most bistro tables are smaller, some can still use a lazy susan for the middle. This will allow you to pass snacks around without much effort.
Lighting can be a small solar lamp that will give you enough light to see what is going on after dark. Having a solar lamp will mean no electric cord to have in your way.
Setting the mood for a romantic evening will easier with a table-top wine rack. This will impress your date, don't forget to take your partner out on a date once a week when you have a date night. I have an article on wooden table-top wine racks here.
Rugs to define your space. Sometimes your deck surface ages and is rough. Having a rug to put down to define your space or protect your feet will give you back value. I did write some reviews of outdoor rugs here.
For more information on the bistro sets available today click the link below.
My final thoughts on bistro sets
Having small spaces outside should not keep you from enjoying nature. I have several different outdoor spaces that could not handle a four-seat table or conversation set. I have several different styles of bistro sets that I use and move them around to change the look during the year.
Some of my Small 3 Piece Patio Sets are not sets at all, they are two chairs with a side table for drinks and snacks. Experiment with what works well for your space and let me know what your set looks like, send me a picture and comment. I will share it with my readers.
If you like some of my ideas, please share them with your friends and family on your social networks.
Any questions or comments, please use the forms below and I will get back to you.
I have to say, I love outdoor spaces. Me and my wife are pretty picky, but love to have change every summer, so we cycle things in and out. Keeps it interesting. Thanks for the read.
AJ,
If you keep changing things, you have a new space. I like to create new ideas by moving or adding to my outdoor spaces all year long.
John
I am like you in that I have to have my own space outside. There is nothing more relaxing than to have a place to sit, relax and drink your favorite beverage while enjoying the weather. My outside spot is my patio, cypress swing bench and coffee in the morning or beer in the evening.
Would you recommend a bistro set for two that is durable, like metal, so as to last many seasons or a bistro set that is made from wood?
Ken,
The material that a bistro set is made from will have to do with your ability for upkeep and how much it is out of the weather. The aluminum and cast iron do extremely well in most outdoor conditions with little upkeep. The wooden bistro sets will need a refinish every two years or so depending on the environment. Steel with a powder coat will last well if the finish is keep clean and it does not get scratched.
Each type of material will have its own qualities, depends on the amount of weather and your ability to upkeep the finish of each type.
See my information on types of outdoor furniture with this link.
Nice article John. I’m a big fan of improving the quality of my outdoor space, most especially my backyard, so when the family and friends are over they feel like they are fully welcomed. Bistro seats are amazing and I like the fact that they are small and good enough for corners not used often. Great job on the article brother. I’ll be back for more 🙂
Brandon,
Outdoor spaces are an extension of our homes. Using this smaller spaces for entertaining will make your outdoor area seem bigger.
John