As the warm weather approaches, a lot of us have started to think about how we want to decorate our backyards and play areas. This applies for public spaces like parks as well – there are always ways to improve, and now that summer is on the (somewhat distant) horizon, it’s time to start thinking about it.
In particular, it’s a good time to think about improvements that can be made to the outdoor furniture. Namely, picnic benches are a huge staple in many parks, and they’ve become a classic on patios and back porches as well. There are a ton of different styles and materials that they can be made of, as you can see by looking at picnic tables by PicnicFurniture.com and similar sites.
Often, the question becomes a matter of what type of table we want, and what style will fit best in our space. If you’d like to learn more about the options that are available, make sure to stick around! That’s what we’ll be covering today.
Why Picnic Tables?
Now, something you may be wondering about is why picnic benches are such a big deal in the first place. You see, they bring a lot to the table (pun intended) as far as exterior design goes. Let’s examine what some of those perks are, and why you may want to consider adding a picnic table to your outdoor space!
Comfort: Let’s face it, sitting on the ground tends not to be all that comfortable. While picnics on a blanket in the grass get romanticized, it’s not all that fun to sit there for extended periods of time. Tables make for far more comfortable outings.
Durability: Picnic tables are typically made of sturdy materials such as wood, metal, or plastic, which makes them durable and long-lasting. They can withstand outdoor elements like rain, wind, and sun exposure without deteriorating quickly, meaning that they’re a solid investment.
Check this page to learn more about picnic table plans.
Versatility: They can be used for a variety of activities, such as outdoor dining, hosting barbecues, playing games, and socializing with friends and family. This means they are a versatile outdoor furniture option that can be used in various settings, from parks and campgrounds to backyard patios and gardens, as we noted prior!
Types of Picnic Tables
Now that we’ve explored some of the reasons that they can be so useful, no matter what type of outdoor space you’re looking to get furniture for, let’s cover the different types of picnic benches that are out there. It can be useful to know about a variety of them, after all, considering the difficulty of choosing which pieces we want.
Traditional Tables
This type of picnic table typically consists of a rectangular or square table with attached benches on either side. They are commonly made of wood or metal and are a classic choice for outdoor dining and socializing. You can find them in almost any park or playground, and they can be a nice addition to a home as well if you enjoy that style!
Round Tables
Round picnic tables feature a circular table with attached benches around the perimeter. They are a unique and stylish option for outdoor gatherings and can accommodate more people compared to traditional rectangular tables, which is their biggest appeal. You can read more about that here: https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-build-picnic-table.htm.
Folding Tables:
Folding picnic tables are compact and portable, making them easy to transport and store. They are ideal for picnics, camping trips, and outdoor events where space is limited; a lot of folks will take them when they travel for this very reason.
Children’s Tables:
Children’s picnic benches are designed specifically for kids, with smaller dimensions and colorful designs. They are a fun and practical option for children to use for outdoor play, art projects, and meals. Typically, they are portable, meaning you can take them around the yard any time your kids want to explore!
ADA Accessible Tables:
Whether you’re designing a public space or an area at home, it doesn’t hurt to consider accessibility. Still, this tends to be more relevant for public areas. ADA-accessible picnic tables are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Notably, they feature a larger and more open design to allow for wheelchair accessibility, making outdoor gatherings more inclusive for everyone.
What Should You Choose?
While we haven’t completely covered every single type of table there is, we’ve offered a fairly comprehensive list. You’re probably wondering which you should opt for! At the end of the day, the decision is in your hands.
You’ll need to consider what would work best in the space you’re designing. What material would be suitable? What shape? All of these are important questions, and hopefully this guide will help you find the answers.
