Due to their constant creativity and problem-solving, designers constantly surprise us with new innovations. This largely concerns the practicality, aesthetics, and construction of outdoor coffee tables. The coffee table’s unique style can serve to spruce up the family area.
However, for many consumers, functionality is the top priority. Due to this, outdoor coffee tables with storage have become increasingly popular. Today, we will walk you through choosing and constructing an easy DIY outdoor coffee table with storage for your patio.
1. Select The Coffee Table Size and Dimensions
Length
Choosing a coffee table’s proper size is essential for the room’s beauty and practicality. The “standard size” for a coffee table is about 16 inches in height and at least 36 inches in length, but remember that in design, there are no rules that can’t be bent a little bit; the ideal outdoor coffee table size will therefore vary depending on the available floor space and the other pieces of furniture around it.
Height
The primary function of a round outdoor coffee table with storage is to stabilize the sofa, or more accurately, to stabilize you while you lounge on the couch. Keeping this in mind, the optimal bistro table height is in line with the height of your sofa or armchairs.
Having a table that is too tall or too short might be off-putting to the room’s aesthetics.
Width
The standard recommendation is to match the length of your sofa to the length of your outdoor patio coffee table with storage. A coffee table should be around two-thirds the length of your sofa if you don’t have a sectional. If your couch is 9 feet long (108 inches), your coffee table should be about 6 feet long (72 inches).
2. Choose the Coffee Table Design
Coffee tables are the recent outdoor furniture trends 2023, and like any other piece of furniture, they have a wide range of designs and sizes to suit any interior.
Here are some popular outdoor coffee tables with storage designs;
Rectangular
Rectangular tables are popular because they complement spacious spaces with multiple couches. A rectangular coffee table with storage would look great in any type of decor, from modern to rustic, and provides optimal space for storage.
Square
Square outdoor coffee tables with storage waterproof are less common than rectangular tables, but they provide your home with an original flair. They are great space savers for apartments, studios, and compact outdoor spaces.
Round
No matter the size of your patio, round outdoor coffee tables with storage are great deck furniture ideas. Even though your outdoor space is limited, you may still enjoy the convenience of a table by placing a round one at the room’s focal point. Most people like square or rectangular tables, but a circular one adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to the space.
3. Pick Coffee Table Materials
It’s essential to pick the best outdoor coffee table material while making one of your own. Outdoor coffee tables with storage provide extra space for accessories; therefore, they need to be durable. Now that you know what shapes people prefer, you can start thinking about the best material to use;
Wood
Wood is one of the most used materials for coffee tables despite its traditional look. Thankfully, wood can be incorporated into a wide variety of decors. The best wood outdoor furniture is a great way to incorporate nature into a patio design scheme.
Metal
Metal is also becoming increasingly popular, particularly in home settings. Your outdoor metal side table with storage, whether it is stainless steel, iron, or something else, will be a striking focal point in your outdoor area.
Marble
Marble is another common material for outdoor patio coffee tables with storage due to its elegant appearance. It doesn’t matter what color the table base is; it looks great with a marble top. Marble’s resistance to water, heat, and chipping also makes it a long-lasting material choice.
You can also mix and pair different types of outdoor furniture, such as a wood side table, with a wicker outdoor coffee table for a diversified look.
Creating a Small Outdoor Coffee Table with Storage and Umbrella Hole
To help you get going, here is a detailed step-by-step tutorial to get started on your outdoor coffee table with storage:
Step 1: Design and Measure
Set the coffee table’s dimensions. Standard dimensions are about 24 by 36 inches, although this can be altered to suit your individual needs.
For patio umbrella ideas, you can create a central opening for an umbrella. Umbrella poles typically have a diameter of 1.5 inches, but this might vary depending on the brand.
Step 2: Cut Your Boards
Divide the wood into these sections using an electric saw:
The table’s legs should be made from four identical components.
The table’s frame consists of four individual pieces: two narrower ones for the width and two wider ones for the length.
Cut multiple sections for the tabletop and storage compartment, trimmed to the dimensions you decided above. Remember to measure and cut an umbrella hole in between your wooden planks.
Tip: The internal parts can have the rounded edge cut off using a circular saw.
Step 3: Assemble the Top and Leg Piece
Arrange the frame parts in a flat, rectangular configuration and use wood glue and screws with pilot holes drilled at the joints to prevent the wood from splitting.
Step 4: Create the Tabletop
Put the components on the table adjacent to each other. Allow some space for drainage and expansion between the planks.
Attach the top to the legs by screwing in wood screws from below.
Step 5: Create Storage Compartments
Figure out where you’d like the storage compartment, and build dividers out of extra wood to fit inside the frame.
Step 6: Sand and Finish
Sand the entire table to remove any splinters and achieve a uniform finish.
Smooth the table to perfection with 80, 120, and 220-grit sandpaper and an orbital sander.
To preserve the wood and shield it from the weather, a wood stain or outdoor paint can be used. If more than one coat is required, wait for each one to dry before applying the next.
Step 7: Add Hinges
Mount hinges on the top of each section for easy opening and closing of the storage compartments and puts handles or knobs on the doors of the storage areas so that they are easier to open and close.
Step 8: The Final Touch
Verify and make any necessary modifications to all connections. Check that all of the storage areas can be opened and closed without any difficulty. Additionally, ensure that the umbrella fits into the umbrella hole perfectly and won’t move due to wind.
Step 9: Enjoy Your DIY Outdoor Coffee Table
If you have a patio or other outdoor space, you can set up your DIY outdoor coffee table with storage there and use an umbrella to keep the sun off your coffee as you sip it.
Take your time, wear protective gear, and observe all safety rules when building an outdoor coffee table.
Conclusion: How Beneficial Is an Outdoor Coffee Table with Storage?
The “outdoors” should be a haven where you can unwind and recharge, but how can you unwind while the patio is a complete disaster? A coffee table with storage is a great way to declutter your outdoor space. The coffee table’s shelves and drawers make it ideal for stowing away clutter and help you relax in the great outdoors.
