The best spot to relax in your yard isn’t always a terrace next to the house—11 charming seating area ideas
It’s worth scattering several cozy seating areas around the garden. Some can be hidden nooks you’ll only notice while strolling through the yard.
1. The top spot for everyday and special occasions
A summer kitchen and terrace built from new lumber yet furnished with upcycled materials are the heart of this garden. The owners wanted a homemade, rustic feel for the seating area. The dining table under the canopy and the bench on the terrace are made from old doors. Round windows maintain a connection to the surrounding greenery.
2. Accented with stones
A white, romantic metal bench stands out against the lush green backdrop like a piece of jewelry. The half-moon arrangement of cobblestones beneath it draws attention to the bench while keeping its legs from sinking into the ground.
“Where would you like to enjoy your morning coffee? And which spot is bathed in the evening sun?”
3. Under the old oak tree
The family transformed a 1990s-era grill shelter into a cozy summer kitchen. They removed the built-in benches along the two long sides and enclosed the walls. A cooking counter was installed on one side, and the other side features charming old windows. The family painted the black exterior a refreshing shade of green. The large table easily accommodates guests. In the evenings, lanterns hanging from the oak’s branches complete the atmosphere.
4. As if floating
A pergola nestled among lush plant groupings appears to float in midair. From this elevated seating area, you’ll have a wonderful view of beds planted with daylilies, lady’s mantle, hostas, and golden-leaf barberry. On the left, a ‘Tammelan Kaunotar’ lilac is blooming. The airy metal screen at the back is a fun place to hang potted summer flowers. Check out the feature on this gorgeous garden here.
“It’s good to have covered seating areas in the garden too, so you can enjoy the sound of rain.”
5. A vantage point
Use the yard’s slopes to your advantage when creating seating areas. From the gazebo at the top of the incline, you have a picturesque view of the garden. Curtains lend the gazebo a luxurious touch. The firmly embedded zigzag path is easy to walk on and interesting to look at.
6. A bit of grit, rust, and a hint of sparkle
“A garden is meant for play,” thought the owner of this herb garden, [in Finnish] who bent reinforcing bars into a whimsical gazebo complete with a crystal chandelier. In the pots, ‘Magic Mountain’ basil stands in for typical summer flowers. If you wanted a more sheltered nook, you could grow runner beans up the rods.
7. Next to the greenhouse
The side of the greenhouse is an ideal spot for a small patio. The lawn was removed, then landscaping fabric, sand, and flagstones were added. Lush container plantings, the patio’s curved shape, and the mix of different stones make the space stylish yet relaxed. The furniture suits the greenhouse nicely.
“You can also get a greenhouse just for relaxing and set it up on a terrace.”
8. Cozy and abundant
Carpets and other textiles make garden seating areas cozier and more polished, even if the furniture is made from old pallets. Additional reinforcing mesh has been placed on the pergola’s rafters for hanging planters or drapes. Potted summer flowers complete the abundant look. You can find the story of this cleverly built garden here [in Finnish].
9. It turned into a garden gazebo
Originally, tomatoes and corn grew in this greenhouse, but it was later dedicated solely to lounging. Its décor changes each season. Virginia creeper and the ‘Pohjantähti’ climbing rose wind along the walls and ceiling. The windows were discovered at a recycling center, the foundation was made of concrete blocks, and the floor was laid with pavers on a sand base.
10. A fragrant haven
In this 450-square-meter city garden, a beautiful patio was built not only in front of the house but also near the yard shed. Curved rose beds wrap around the seating area, and at the end of the day, the resident settles on the patio to enjoy the view and the roses’ evening fragrance, which grows stronger as dusk falls. Cobblestones are a stylish, timeless, and durable material choice for the patio.
11. A dream summer room
Open the double doors—and let in the sunshine and birdsong! Mostly built from reclaimed materials, this handcrafted summerhouse’s interior echoes its earthy exterior tones. Old wooden boxes, a wall shelf adapted from two shelving units, and rattan chairs fit together perfectly.
