Creative Alternatives to Outside Tables & Chairs

Wine Barrels

• Wine barrels give any backyard or patio an elegant look. The natural wood material fits in with surrounding nature, while still displaying the human side of innovation. The material also holds up well in all weather conditions, making it ideal for the outdoors. To make the most seating, dig a small trench in the dirt to place the rounded side into. This will prevent the barrels from rolling away. To make more seating, place two or more barrels in a row along the same trench. Wine barrels can also be propped up on their flat side, allowing for a flat table or comfortable seat on top. To dress up one of these barrels with an accent color, add a small, circular outdoor chair cushion.

Indoor Furniture

• Using indoor couches and coffee tables as outdoor furniture creates that warm feeling of 'home', even when you're outdoors. To tie the inside and outside world together, stick with nature themes on the upholstery, such as flowers and earth tones. Only use this type of furniture in areas that are completely covered, such as a front porch. To protect wood from the elements, spray on a protecting finish before you move it outside. Bringing the 'living room' touch outdoors puts a whole new comfort perspective on nature.

Wood Logs

• Uphold a sense of nature with your outside furniture. Use tree trunks as seating around an outdoor fire pit to create a camping-out atmosphere. If you have several trees on your property, it can be more affordable to use your own. With large trees, cut the trunks in half or in quarters to use as bench seating.

Rocks

• Rocks are another natural way to replace tables and chairs. Use big rocks as seats or as the foundation of a table. For a more polished look, create a large, shallow sandbox. In the middle, place a low table and use flat stepping stones as seats. The sand will keep most bugs at bay, leaving you free to enjoy your meals and gatherings in peace.