Often those looking to purchase a 2-seater bistro set are doing so because their outdoor space is limited. It could be they have a balcony or they just need a compact set for a small patio area.
Whatever the reason, they're a great way to pack a whole lot of style and function into a little area, but choosing the right garden bistro set from our shop can be tricky.
If space is limited, then it is vital that you purchase the right set to ensure that when it is in place your outdoor area is comfortable, still functions and flows, and it looks good.
The Lazy Susan team have compiled some simple steps to help you choose the right 2-seater set from our collection.
Answer these questions and you’ll have all the information you need to make the best selection from our comprehensive range:
What is the size of the space?
Start by measuring the area where you intend to place your bistro.
You need it to be a level surface and free from any obstructions such as steps, walls, large planters, trees, pillars, doors, etc.
Measure in centimetres, not inches, as that is the unit of measurement we use in our shop and on all technical literature, instructions and diagrams.
Measure twice to make sure your figures are correct and then measure again if need be.
As a general rule, we advise that you leave between 50 cm and 75 cm around the table to position the chairs and then a further 50 cm to 75 cm for what we call working space (shown in the diagram below).
This will then give you the room you need to pull out to sit comfortably at the table, pull the chairs in and out, and then still have room to move around the table safely and comfortably.
How do you use the space?
Determine how you plan to use the outdoor space.
Are you looking to create an intimate bistro area, a brunch area to catch the morning sun, or a combination of both?
This will dictate the type and size of set you need, and help you establish if a bistro is the correct type of set or if a change of plan is needed.
Do you want to zone the space?
If you have a small patio or balcony, then options are limited.
If you have a larger space that you want to zone into different functions, then a bistro could be the perfect solution.
Divide your outdoor space into zones based on your intended use for them.
For example, if you wanted a bistro area for brunch and a seating area for a garden bench, allocate a separate zone for each and measure the space available to see what will fit.
How do you move around the space?
In the trade, we call this traffic flow, and this is how we move around the space when the furniture is in situ.
You need to leave enough working space around the furniture for safe movement.
Leave adequate space for guests to comfortably pull out chairs and walk around the table.
It is also important to factor in how people access the patio, taking into account any steps or doors that open up into the space, and make sure you can still do so comfortably and safely without the need to move furniture.
Will it complement your outdoor space?
As well as making sure it fits in terms of dimensions, it is vital that the bistro table and chairs fit in terms of style and scale too…
Consider the scale and proportion of the furniture in relation to the overall size of your outdoor space.
Oversized furniture can overwhelm a small patio, while a small bistro set can look lost in a large open area.
In terms of style, you want something that complements your home and garden. Pick a finish that works with the predominant colour scheme. Most importantly, pick a set you love!
Are 2 seats enough?
Decide how many people you want to accommodate comfortably.
Traditionally, we think of a bistro set as a 2-seater. That is the classic cafe style.
However, many of the larger tables in our 2-seater range such as Mia and Hannah have a 90 cm diameter table top, so they are also perfectly proportioned and available in our shop as 4-seater sets.
It could even be that you need a 3-seater bistro set. In that case, purchase a 2-seater set and add an additional chair to your order.
What are the dimensions of the table and 2 chairs?
Before you buy, take the dimensions of the area and check the dimensions of the bistro set you're interested in.
Compare these measurements to your available free space to ensure a good fit, function and flow.
If we take our Anna 2-Seater Bistro Set (above) as an example, it has an 80 cm diameter tabletop (as shown in the illustration below).
Add onto that 50 - 75 cm for the chairs and 50 - 75 cm of working space and you need around 180 cm to 230 cm diameter of space for that table to fit and still function (as shown in the diagram below).
Of course, these figures are a guide only, every patio, balcony, etc. is different so you might be able to work with less, just be sure to carefully measure and assess the space.
For example, as all bistro sets are 2-seater with a round table top, it could be you position the set against a wall or the edge of a balcony so that automatically reduces the amount of working and chair space on one side.
Do you need any accessories?
Take into account any additional outdoor accessories you also plan to include, such as parasols, side tables, or a garden bench.
These items will impact the layout and available space too.
They can also be purchased as part of a bundle deal with many of our bistro sets with significant savings.
Look at the “Create your perfect set” section on each set's product page for details.
How will the bistro set look when in situ?
Visual balance is key. Keep aesthetics in mind. You want your outside space to look great when the set is in place.
Consider how the furniture will look in your outdoor space.
Choose a bistro that will complement the style and colour scheme of your home and garden, patio or balcony.
Would it help to mock up the layout?
If you need a little help with the previous point, before you buy, create a mock layout.
You can use cardboard cutouts, pavement chalk or masking tape on the ground to help best visualise how the furniture will look and fit in the space.
This will also allow you to check the flow and see if movement is still safe and comfortable.
Have you read customer reviews?
If you're shopping online for a new bistro set, then it pays to do a little due diligence.
Read customer reviews and check for recommendations regarding the price, quality, finish, service, size and fit of the bistros from other buyers.
We even leave the bad ones on there as they show how we resolve any issues!
Have you viewed our garden furniture customer photos?
If you can’t visit a showroom or store to physically see and try out the bistro set, then customer photos are a great way to see how the bistro will look in your own outdoor space.
It will give you a better sense of its size and comfort and it is another indication of high customer satisfaction.
Have you asked us for advice?
If you're unsure about any of the questions above, then ask an expert.
Our customer service team are here to help and waiting for your call - 01243 68 43 18.
Choosing the right 2-seater bistro set is critical in creating a space that delivers both great style and functionality.
Take the time to do a little research, plan and measure up to help ensure that your bistro set fits your space perfectly.
If you have any photos of your 2-seater Bistro Set, then we’d love to see a few for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload Here.