How to design the perfect BBQ setup — With garden furniture that fires up the style!

If you want to fire up your patio style with outdoor furniture that looks as good as it performs at your next BBQ, then the Lazy Magazine team are here to help.

When the sun finally sticks around in the UK — and let’s be honest, it has lately — our gardens become the go-to spot for relaxing, entertaining, and of course, barbecuing. Whether it’s a spontaneous midweek grill for two or a full-blown Saturday feast with family and friends, nothing beats a warm afternoon or evening spent outdoors.

Here in the UK, the phrase “as soon as the sun’s out, the BBQs come out” has become something of a seasonal mantra. It perfectly captures our eagerness to seize even the briefest hint of sunshine for some outdoor dining. As writer and comedian David Mitchell once quipped:

The second the weather’s good, we’re all out back with a bottle of Pimms and a burnt sausage pretending we’re Mediterranean.

However, if your garden furniture isn’t quite up to scratch, even the best BBQ plans can fall a little flat. The key to a perfect BBQ arrangement lies in more than just the menu — it’s about crafting a space that’s comfortable, sociable, and effortlessly stylish.

That’s where smart garden furniture solutions come in. From compact bistro sets to spacious extending dining tables, the hard-working team at Lazy Magazine has you covered with a range of classically stylish cast aluminium pieces that look fantastic and last for years.

Let’s explore how to create a garden setup that does justice to this glorious sunshine — and makes outdoor hosting a breeze.

Start with your outdoor space: Big or small, it matters

Before choosing new garden furniture, take a good look at the shape and size of your outdoor space.

Do you have a narrow terrace, a square patio, or an open lawn?

The layout and how many you want to entertain will help determine whether a bistro set, dining table, or table set paired modular lounge set makes the most sense.

Here’s a quick cheat table to help you start planning:

Garden Size	Best Furniture Type	Why It Works
Small patio/balcony	Bistro set	Compact, stylish, perfect for 2–3 guests
Medium terrace	4–6 seater dining set	Room to dine, host and spread out
Large garden/lawn	Lounge + extending dining table set combo	Ultimate flexibility for big gatherings
Odd-shaped corners	Modular Lounge or Coffee Table setup	Custom-fit for tricky layouts

Lazy Magazine’s top patio furniture picks for stylish BBQs

When it comes to hosting the ultimate garden BBQ, the right outdoor furniture sets the tone just as much as the food on the grill.

From intimate bistro sets perfect for cosy chats to spacious dining tables that invite everyone to gather around, the Lazy Magazine team has curated our top furniture picks that balance style, comfort, and practicality.

Chef Jamie Oliver put it perfectly: 

You don’t need a massive garden to enjoy outdoor cooking. A little grill, a table, a few chairs, and you’re golden.

Whether you’re working with a snug patio or a sprawling garden, before you start cooking, these selections will help you create a BBQ zone that’s as inviting as it is stylish — ready to fire up memorable summer moments.

1. Bistro Sets

Perfect for: Small spaces and casual drinks

Bistro sets are our go-to for cosy setups. Typically made for two — some of our larger tables can accommodate 3 or even 4 — they’re lightweight, easy to move, and bring a European café vibe to your garden. Pair one with a parasol or fairy lights for maximum charm.

Lazy Magazine Pro BBQ Tip: Opt for a romantic white bistro like our Ivy set to create a charming, timeless look that adds a touch of elegance and lightness to your garden BBQ configuration.

2. Outdoor Dining Table Sets

Perfect for: Sit-down BBQ feasts

If you like to host full-on summer patio parties, a proper dining table set is essential. Opt for weather-resistant materials like cast aluminium, and consider pairing with a garden bench or two for a communal feel. Our patio dining table sets start at 4 seats and go up to 10+ seaters.

Lazy Magazine Pro BBQ Tip: Go for one of our extendable garden tables like our Vanessa in slate grey if you need flexibility when guest numbers grow.

3. Modular Lounge or Coffee Table Sets

Perfect for: Relaxed, sociable setups

If your BBQs tend to drift into late-night chats and drinks, a lounge and dining set combo is your friend. While we don't sell them, modular sofa-style seating lets you configure the layout to suit your garden shape. With our range, you could add one of our low coffee table sets such as our Bella set alongside a fire pit to keep things laid back and inviting.

Lazy Magazine Pro BBQ Tip: Mix lots of outdoor cushions and rugs to blur the indoor/outdoor line.

4. Bar Tables with Stools

Perfect for: A garden party vibe

Got a corner to spare? Add a bar table and stools for a cocktail zone. It creates a natural social hub and helps divide your garden into ‘zones’ — ideal for bigger get-togethers.

Lazy Magazine Pro BBQ Tip: We don't sell bar tables so our advice would be to go for a stylish coffee table arrangement. However, if it is a bar-style you want, then opt for tables and stools with adjustable heights and weather-resistant finishes — this will ensure comfort for all guests and keeps your setup looking sleek season after season.

Furniture layout ideas for every garden shape

Garden Shape	Layout Idea
Long and narrow	Bistro set at one end, coffee table set in the middle, vertical planting for depth
Wide terrace	The dining set is centralised, lounge zone is off to one side
L-shaped garden	Place dining set in one arm, L-shaped sofa in the other to maximise space
Square patio	Round table or modular sofa set to create flow and break up boxy lines

Our quick BBQ furniture styling tips

• Opt for cast aluminium garden furniture from Lazy Susan Furniture
  Known for its classic style, our signature outdoor furniture material combines timeless elegance with weather-resistant durability, making it perfect for UK gardens that see a mix of sun and rain.

• Incorporate a Lazy Susan turntable
  Place it in the centre of your dining table to make sharing dishes easy and add a fun, interactive element to your BBQ gatherings.

• Mix and match chairs and benches
  With our fully coordinated collection, you can create a relaxed, inviting seating arrangement that feels thoughtfully put together without being overly formal.

• Choose classic colours
  For example, crisp white metal with deep greens cushions — these hues complement garden greenery beautifully and enhance the heritage look of our cast aluminium furniture.

• Add soft outdoor cushions in neutral or pastel shades
  Bring warmth and comfort without overpowering the furniture’s classic lines.

• Use traditional garden accessories
  Add wrought iron lanterns, vintage-style planters, or hanging baskets to amplify the timeless charm and create a cosy, inviting atmosphere.

• Don’t forget shade options
  Pair your patio table with one of our classic parasols or a wooden pergola fitted with climbing plants — these will not only protect you from the midday sun but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden BBQ/dining area.

• Anchor your patio dining space with an outdoor rug
  Opt for natural fibres like jute or sisal, which will add texture and help define the area as a distinct ‘room’ in your garden.

• Incorporate subtle lighting
  Solar-powered fairy lights or candle lanterns are perfect to extend your BBQ parties well into the evening with their warm, inviting glow. Opt for citronella candles and they will help keep the bugs away/

• Keep maintenance simple
  Choose furniture that’s easy to clean and rust-resistant, so your garden setup stays looking fresh throughout the summer season with minimal fuss.

FAQs: Designing your great British barbecue setup

What’s the best material for outdoor furniture in the UK?

Look for weather-resistant materials like our aluminium or treated woods and all-weather rattans. Avoid untreated metal or fabrics that can’t handle rain and sun.

How can I make my BBQ area feel like an outdoor room?

Use zoning tricks like rugs, lighting, and planters. Define your dining, lounging, and cooking areas with furniture placement and texture.

Can I mix furniture styles in one space?

Absolutely. Mixing bistro sets with dining tables or lounge chairs with bar stools adds visual interest and versatility. Just keep a consistent colour palette to pull it together.

Do I need furniture covers or can I leave it out year-round?

In the UK, it’s smart to invest in quality covers or choose furniture that’s designed for all seasons. Store cushions indoors or in breathable storage bags.

Our Final Thoughts…

Designing the perfect BBQ space is about more than just the grill — it’s about creating a space where people can relax, connect, and make the most of summer.

Whether you’re working with a tiny patio or a country garden, choosing the right furniture will fire up your style and function.

So grab a garden chair, fire up the coals, grab your tongs and temperature probe, and let your garden do the hosting!

Don’t forget to share your Lazy Susan outdoor furniture. Tag us on Instagram or Facebook using @LazySusanFurniture, or upload photos to our Do Some Good campaign — we’d love to see our furniture set up at your next BBQ!