We Can't Decide on Whether to Use Benches or White Table and Two Chair

Deltagardener
by Deltagardener
We worked on this garden yesterday but I think I like the benches once they are fixed up. Hubby likes the table and chairs. We are at a stalemate.
New path to garden arbor is complete. This walks off the deck.
Deck has to be painted or stained yet. Benches are rustic and need work.
Closeup of benches. I am look for a conversation area.
As far as we got last night before mosquitoes took over.
Decided to plant Hens and Chicks in the bricks we used to line the pathway. Will alternate colours, blues,reds & greens
Okay, away went the bench and table. Out came two old benches that we had forgotten about. I love the wrought iron. Added a living wrought iron planter as a living table.
  20 answers
  • Jessica C Jessica C on Jul 21, 2013
    Benches! There is not enough room for a table. How about a rectangular low fire pit with a table like cover?
  • Deltagardener Deltagardener on Jul 21, 2013
    I agree with the benches. Thanks for helping out. A fire pit is a great idea!
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Jul 22, 2013
    To me the benches seem pretty far from the table...especially so in the "corners". The chairs would seem a better fit for using the table. For more "bulk" seating however you can have more people sitting with the benches.
  • Z Z on Jul 22, 2013
    I'm with @Kevin. Though the benches give you more seating, it's pretty much useless with that table. If you want the benches I'd advise another table. It looks like a lovely area to entertain though.
  • Deltagardener Deltagardener on Jul 22, 2013
    I agree that a square table would work much better. I think for now I will try out the benches with maybe a small cocktail table somewhere.
  • Gail Salminen Gail Salminen on Jul 22, 2013
    @Deltagardener what about a combination of both chairs and benches. Some people perefer to have some back support if sitting for a while, others don't care. They combine the two choices in dining rooms so why not outside. You could use some cocktail (small) tables in between the benches - they have an array of colours these days and quite cheap especially this time of year. You have done a great job on the area. Looking forward to the final pics of the area. Thanks for sharing.
  • Deltagardener Deltagardener on Jul 22, 2013
    Gail, I guess we could add backs to the benches, some cushions as well. I am so excited to get this project done. It was a garden full of horsetail. So weeds be gone!
  • Cynthia Cynthia on Jul 22, 2013
    Benches and how about staining them a nice rich color or painting them for a pop!
  • Pazazz Pazazz on Jul 23, 2013
    I am in agreement with Gail re: using benches & the table with chairs. From photo it appears that you have room for both. Cushions will add colour & comfort. If in US, check out Target, TJMax for colourful cushions @ great prices. A colourful umbrella would add colour & protection from sun for your family & guests. Lots of great deals with summer movin' on. Be sure to post photos as you add pieces. Lookin' good!
  • Brenda De Lair Brenda De Lair on Jul 23, 2013
    I would get a retanguler table and use both benches and chairs. That way a large group can eat, drink, play cards all together and those who need back support have it. your garden path and deck are looking most excellent.
  • Gail Salminen Gail Salminen on Jul 23, 2013
    @Deltagardener just found this on facebook - would be a great way of adding cocktail tables to your vinette on a dime :) http://www.dukesandduchesses.com/2013/07/how-to-make-terracotta-pot-table.html
  • Marian taylor Marian taylor on Jul 24, 2013
    right angle the benches in one corner and the table with chair on opposite end. a fire pit or funky coffee table by the benches to place drinks on
  • Sia@South 47th Sia@South 47th on Jul 24, 2013
    @Deltagardener The benches lend themselves so naturally to your gorgeous surroundings, where the stark white table and chairs seem somewhat "Hard" and out of place. Just my little opinion. xo
  • Brenda De Lair Brenda De Lair on Jul 25, 2013
    Your solution of the benches with the wrought iron back looks very nice and offers the back support so many people need. Very nice.
  • Deltagardener Deltagardener on Jul 25, 2013
    @Brenda De Lair I think we will stay with the park benches. The wrought iron colour matches the tones of the brick used. Now to get working a deck colour.
  • Bessie Ashby Bessie Ashby on Jun 12, 2014
    I would like 2 chairs and a bench. chairs are more comfortable if you are relaxing
  • Bessie Ashby Bessie Ashby on Jun 12, 2014
    I would also paint the legs on that white table black to go with the rest of the black
  • Jean Adams Jean Adams on Jun 12, 2014
    You forgot you had those beautiful benches? OMG The lovely backless bench is perfect for a quiet moment. Lovely, and you keep making it even better.
  • JoAnn Cline JoAnn Cline on Jul 23, 2014
    The last setting with the wrought iron benches is by far the most attractive. The table looks cheap and the other benches need some work. If you need the table spray paint it with one of those hammered look paints. They look terrific! JMHO
  • Deltagardener Deltagardener on Jul 23, 2014
    @JoAnn Cline This is how it ended up. I like this much better.