Nothing says ‘summer’ and ‘socialise’ better than a good old bistro set in your garden, where you can sit down and relax with a glass of wine and have a good old natter with a friend. Or, enjoy some important ‘me’ time with a good book. Whatever you like to use your garden furniture for, there’s no doubt that our love affair with this garden furniture will continue.
There are several reasons why we love bistro sets so much; they are timeless, as fashionable today as they were one hundred years ago; they are stylish, coming in a variety of vibrant styles and colours, giving your garden, patio or balcony, an authentic refined look; they are historic, having been around for hundreds of years and depicted in well-known paintings by artists such as Van Gogh, Renoir and Manet. It is no wonder the mere sight of a bistro table conjures up images of cafes in the old streets of Paris, the smells and sounds of great food and good company. Just talking about it makes you want to travel back in time!
So, how did this love affair come about? Well to get to the bottom of this, we need to look at the history, and believe me there is quite a history behind them!
The history of bistro sets
Bistros began in France, with the first bistro opening in Paris in late 1686. This bistro – the Café Procope, is in fact still going strong. In the 1800s bistros (or cafés as they were known at the time) began to place their tables and chairs outside allowing their customers to enjoy the midday sun and watch the sights of the city or enjoy al fresco dining. This caught on fast and it wasn’t long until every café in town was following suit.
In the late 1800s, the Industrial Revolution paved the way for the appearance of forged iron tables and chairs. Which became the classic style, still very popular today.
Types of Bistro Sets
Bistro tables consist of a forged iron base with a marble, wood or stone tabletop, often decorated in vibrant colours. The chairs, again, were made from forged iron and could fold away, allowing the owner of the café or diner to clear the terrace. These days, forged iron is still popular and so are the folding bistro chairs, but there are now many different styles available, made from a variety of materials.
Cast Iron or Cast Aluminium
If you want a traditional-style, cast iron or cast aluminium is a good choice. Cast iron is the more traditional option, is heavier than aluminium, but is also more prone to rust over time. Cast aluminium can look almost the same as their iron counterpart but are lighter (easier to move!) and require less maintenance. Some fantastic styles are available in both cast iron and aluminium if you are after that old-style Parisian or Victorian feel.
Wooden
If you like the natural style that wood offers, a wooden garden bistro set may be just for you. Although not as traditional as metal, wood harmonises with your outdoor space in a way that no other material can. Just be prepared as they do require extra maintenance to keep it looking as good as new. On the plus side, sanding and painting or varnishing allows you to have whatever style you want. So even an old wooden set can be given a new lease of life.
Rattan
If you like to move with the times a rattan outdoor bistro set could be just what the doctor ordered. Rattan offers style, durable, and comfort qualities to give your outdoor space a modern style that no other material can achieve. Rattan garden furniture has become popular in recent years, and rattan is following this trend. What makes rattan so great, apart from being ultra-stylish, is that it is durable enough to handle the worst that our British weather can throw at it. It also requires very little maintenance.
Key features of bistro sets
Alongside the different materials, some key features help this type outdoor furniture to stand out. Firstly is the compact design. Bistro sets are known for their space-saving qualities, making them ideal for small patios, balconies, and gardens. Their compact size allows them to fit into tight spaces without overwhelming the area.
As we already covered above, there is also a wide variety of materials you can pick from. This allows you to choose a material that suits your design and taste. They often come in a variety of materials, each offering different aesthetic and durability benefits:
- Metal: Often crafted from wrought iron or aluminium, metal provides a classic look with the advantage of weather resistance and easy maintenance.
- Wood: Teak, acacia, and eucalyptus are popular choices, offering a natural, warm appeal that blends seamlessly with garden surroundings.
- Rattan/Wicker: Synthetic or natural rattan offers a cosy, rustic vibe and is often paired with cushions for added comfort.
- Plastic: Lightweight and affordable, plastic is easy to clean and available in various colours and styles.
They are also versatile and can be used for many purposes beyond dining. They make an excellent spot for morning coffee, reading, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Their aesthetic appeal and design often feature intricate details, such as scrollwork in metal sets or the rich grain of wooden sets. This helps add a touch of elegance and character to any outdoor setting.
Many sets are also foldable or lightweight, making them easy to move and store. This feature is handy for those who like to rearrange their outdoor spaces or store furniture during harsh weather. Also, with a wide range of colours, styles, and cushion options, they can be customised to match personal tastes and complement existing garden decor.
So, there you have it, bistro sets have a fantastic history and can be a stylish addition to your garden, patio or balcony. They are an affordable option if you like to relax outside either in your own company or with others. And with so many different styles on offer, start hunting for the ideal bistro set for you!