Types of Outdoor Tables
L'Arcolaio's collection includes four main types, suitable for different spaces and uses.
Fixed Dining Tables
Designed for those with a large veranda or a garden where the table remains all summer. Fixed models ensure maximum structural stability, zero mechanism maintenance, and a cleaner design. The Bizzotto Alcorain aluminum with a stone-effect top (180×90 cm) is a solid example: anthracite frame, stain-resistant surface, suitable for 6-8 people. The round Bizzotto Cabastables—available in copper or wall finish, 120 and 130 cm diameter—add a contemporary touch to more intimate spaces, with a resin-stone top that reproduces the aesthetic of natural stone with reduced weight.
Extendable Garden Tables
Ideal for medium-sized terraces where family lunches and dinners with guests alternate. The Bizzotto Kiplinstarts at 180 cm and extends up to 240 cm with an aluminum frame, available in white and anthracite finishes. The Bizzotto Konnoroffers two sizes: 160–240 cm for medium spaces and 200–300 cm for larger gardens, both in painted aluminum. For those seeking a stone-effect top in an extendable format, the Bizzotto Pascalreaches 260 cm when extended. The mechanisms use anodized aluminum guides resistant to humidity, with locking systems that maintain integrity even with frequent use. If you want to learn more about this type, consult the section dedicated to extendable outdoor tables.
Bistro Tables and Compact Tables
For balconies, urban terraces, and aperitif corners: the Nardi Cliptables (70×70 cm and 80×80 cm) in UV-stabilized polypropylene are lightweight, stackable, and available in five colors—white, anthracite, taupe, agave, tobacco. The Nardi Komodo70×70 cm adds a chromatic note in matte agave or taupe, perfect for those who want to coordinate their outdoor space with a touch of color. The Vermobil Foxtables (70×70 and 80×80 cm) stand out for their self-leveling base that compensates for unevenness up to 2-3 cm on irregular pavements: particularly useful on sloping terraces or natural stone tiles.
Modular Bases and Tops
The Nardisystem allows you to purchase the base and top separately: the Clip Basesin polypropylene (available in anthracite, agave, tobacco) support interchangeable square tops. The Vermobil Quadrisare metal-frame tables (80×80 cm) in gray, white, and bronze finishes, designed for frequent use. Modularity is also useful for replacing a single damaged component without changing the entire table.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Table
Based on Available Space
First, measure your outdoor area. For a terrace under 15 sq m, a 70×70 cm bistro table or a compact 140×85 cm model is the most practical choice. Between 15 and 30 sq m, a 160–240 cm extendable table allows for daily maneuverability and extends when guests arrive. For larger gardens, fixed sizes of 180×90 or 210×100 cm ensure wind stability and an essential design. Also, consider that outdoors you tend to use more space for trays, drinks, and centerpieces than indoors: it's better to opt for larger dimensions when space permits.
Based on Material
- Powder-coated aluminum(Bizzotto Konnor, Kiplin, Pascal): very light, rust-proof, resistant to salt corrosion. The advice from those who have been selling these models for years: it is the best choice for those living near the sea or wanting to move the table easily.
- Polypropylene(Nardi Clip, Komodo): waterproof, stackable, very easy to clean with soap and water. Low weight, wide color palette. Perfect for small balconies and those seeking absolute practicality.
- Resin-stone / stone effect(Bizzotto Alcora, Cabas, Pascal): natural aesthetic with minimal maintenance. Does not absorb wine or coffee stains, requires no seasonal treatments.
- Painted metal(Vermobil Quadris, Fox): robust and versatile, in gray, white, and bronze finishes. The self-leveling Fox is particularly appreciated for irregular outdoor paving.
Based on Use
If you primarily use the garden for your family (4-6 fixed seats), a fixedtable offers maximum sturdiness and no worries. If you host lunches with guests from May to September, an extendabletable amortizes the investment in a few seasons. If you are looking for a table for aperitifs on the terrace or morning breakfasts, a compact bistrotable with a self-leveling base is the most practical answer. Pair it with outdoor chairsfrom the same brand to ensure compatible finishes and heights without mismatch risks.
Table-Chair Compatibility
The standard height of outdoor dining tables is 73-76 cm, compatible with garden chairs with a seat height of 45-47 cm. High bar tables (105-110 cm) require dedicated outdoor stools. Always check that the distance between the seat and the tabletop is 28-30 cm to ensure comfort during meals. Nardi offers coordinated table-chair collections with the same palette and materials, simplifying the choice.
If you are looking for a table to use primarily indoors, the indoor tablessection offers materials and sizes designed for indoor environments. For large fixed solutions, also explore fixed tables.
Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Tables
How many people does a 180 cm outdoor table accommodate?
A 180×90 cm table comfortably seats 6-8 people. The rule of thumb is 60-70 cm width per diner. Outdoors, it is advisable to allow a few extra centimeters for trays and drinks. If you host dinners with 10 or more people, consider an extendable model: the Bizzotto Konnor 200-300 cm, for example, can accommodate up to 12 seats in its extended configuration.
Can outdoor tables stay outside all year round?
The aluminum, polypropylene, and resin-stone tables in this collection are resistant to rain, sun, and temperatures from -20°C to +50°C. To prolong their aesthetic life, it is advisable to cover them with breathable covers (not nylon) in winter or store them in a garage, especially in areas with significant temperature fluctuations or near the sea.
Is a fixed or extendable table better for a terrace?
It depends on your habits. If you have a terrace under 20 sq m and host lunches with guests during the summer, an extendable table is the most flexible choice. If you have ample space and primarily use the table for your family without needing extra seats, a fixed table ensures greater structural robustness and a more essential design.
Do the mechanisms of extendable outdoor tables lock up with humidity?
No, if the model is specifically designed for outdoor use. Bizzotto and Nardi mechanisms use anodized aluminum guides and humidity-resistant hinges. To maintain smooth operation over time, simply clean the guides at the beginning and end of the season and apply silicone lubricant spray—a task that takes only a few minutes.
How do I match the table with garden chairs?
The easiest way is to stick to the same brand and line: Nardi and Bizzotto offer coordinated collections. Alternatively, match materials of the same type (aluminum with aluminum, polypropylene with polypropylene) and keep the color palette consistent—white table with white or taupe chairs, anthracite table with anthracite or gray chairs. Avoid combining materials with very different finishes that might fade unevenly in the sun. For a tall bar area, remember to pair a table with a top at 105-110 cm with dedicated stools, not standard chairs.
For professional use—bars, restaurants, outdoor areas—consult the guide to outdoor contract tables with solutions designed for intensive use.