Love it or loathe it, the hot weather has made its appearance this summer, and the forecast looks like there could be more balmy days ahead. If you're like me, it might have got you thinking about upgrading your outdoor space.
While there are plenty of options out there, I only have a small terrace in my London home, so my priority has been finding a stylish yet practical table and chairs set that won't take up too much room but are still big enough to enjoy a meal at. Habitat's two-seater folding wooden garden bistro set caught my eye thanks to its small size and low price. The set is available now from Argos and direct from the Habitat website for £60 in the sale.
Bistro sets are perfect for smaller areas, whether that's a little patio or a compact balcony, but they will still work in larger gardens. The Habitat set is no exception. It's made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood - the organisation that ensures the material has been sustainabily sourced - in a mid-brown colour, which gives it a classic, natural look. This means it's relatively versatile and should fit in regardless of your garden aesthetic.
The tabletop is 60cm in diameter, which is large enough for dining alfresco or a few drinks, but is still compact. The set folds flat, so it should be easy to store away during the colder months.
At £60, this set offers clear value, and if you compare it with similar wooden bistro sets, like the John Lewis ANYDAY version, which can cost £149, it's a noticeable saving.
Although the Habitat garden set is an affordable option, customers who have purchased it have praised its durability.
One reviewer said: "Lovely natural finish, folds up easily, and feels solid enough for casual use." Another added: "Great size for my small garden, and the folding feature means I can keep it tucked away when not in use."
There's no need to get your tools out as the set comes fully assembled; all you need to do is unfold it, and you're good to go. It also cleans up easily with a damp cloth, but Habitat recommends treating the wood with oil every now and then to keep it looking fresh.
However, some buyers have said the wood can scratch if you're not careful when folding or moving the set. One shopper also pointed out that the seats aren't padded, though that's easily fixed with cushions.
For those who need something a little more durable or fancy a splash of colour, Dunelm's Amalfi mosaic effect bistro setis currently priced at £104.30, down from £149. Made of iron and mosaic with a subtle green finish, it's heavier and less natural-looking. However, shoppers have praised it for its sturdiness and vibrant design-one reviewer said they were "delighted" but did note it had quickly started to rust.
There's also the Sol 27 Outdoor two seater bistro set available at Wayfair, currently £109.99 down from £155.99. Made from steel and available in five colours - bright blue, zesty orange, raspberry red, white and grey - lots of customers commented on how "cute" the set was and vibrant the different shades were.
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