A 4-seater garden set is the most popular size for a family or a couple who like to invite friends round for a meal. It's also the size where things most often go wrong: the table turns out bigger on the patio than it looked in the photo, the chairs won't slide back, or there are no cushions even though you expected them. In this buying guide you'll read which table size you need for four, how much space the set takes up, which 4-seater sets are available now and how they differ. There's a short test, a checklist and the mistakes you can easily avoid. All specs come from the product information; current prices and retailers are on the product pages.
In brief: allow 60 to 70 cm of table edge per person and keep at least 70 cm free behind each chair. For four, that means a rectangular table of about 160 cm, a square one of 80x80 cm, or a round one of around Ø120 cm. A set with a 160x84 cm table needs at least 3 by 2.25 metres. When comparing, pay particular attention to the table size, whether cushions are included and whether the backrest is adjustable. Not sure? Take the test.
What is a 4-seater garden set?
A 4-seater garden set is usually a five-piece set: a dining-height table with four chairs. You sit upright, just as you would at a dining table indoors, which makes it suitable for outdoor breakfasts, lunches and proper dinners. The tables in the sets below are 72 to 76.5 cm high, so standard dining table height.
There are a few variations. A compact set has a square table with one chair on each side. A rectangular set has two people seated along each long side. A bar set, such as the Monti bar set with a seat height of 72 cm, is higher and suits an outdoor bar or a spot with a view. If you mainly want to sink back with a drink, a lounge set or dining lounge set is a better choice. For that, read lounge set or garden set: what suits you.
What table size do you need for 4 people?
The table determines how comfortable your seating is. As a rule of thumb, allow 60 to 70 cm of table edge per person: at 60 cm you'll be sitting with your elbows just touching, at 70 cm you'll have plenty of room. A rectangular table is preferably 80 to 90 cm wide or more, so there's space in the middle for serving dishes, a carafe and a candle. For four people, these are the sizes you'll end up with:
| Table | Arrangement | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Square 80x80 cm | 1 per side | Small, square patio |
| Round Ø110 to 122 cm | All around | Square patio, cosy |
| Rectangle 160x84 or 160x90 cm | 2 per long side | Narrow or elongated patio |
| Rectangle 180x100 cm | 2 per long side | Generous seating, plenty on the table |
Do you usually eat with four, but have six round for a meal a few times a year? Then a 180 cm table is handy: someone can squeeze in at the short ends now and then. If you more often sit six, take a look at the 6-seater garden sets or read how to choose a 6-seater garden set.
How much space does a 4-seater garden set take up?
A chair doesn't stay tucked under the table: you pull it back to sit down and get up. So keep at least 70 cm free from the table edge, and preferably 90 cm if someone also needs to walk behind an occupied chair. If there are people seated on all sides, work it out like this:
- Minimum: (table length + 140 cm) x (table width + 140 cm)
- Generous: (table length + 180 cm) x (table width + 180 cm)
- Round table: diameter + 140 cm, in both directions
| Table in the set | Floor minimum | Floor generous |
|---|---|---|
| 80x80 cm | 2.2 x 2.2 m | 2.6 x 2.6 m |
| Round Ø122 cm | 2.6 x 2.6 m | 3 x 3 m |
| 160x84 cm | 3 x 2.25 m | 3.4 x 2.65 m |
| 160x90 cm | 3 x 2.3 m | 3.4 x 2.7 m |
| 180x100 cm | 3.2 x 2.4 m | 3.6 x 2.8 m |
If one side of the table is against a wall or hedge, you don't need sliding room on that side. You'll find the explanation and more calculation examples in how much space you need for a garden table and how much space you need for a garden set.
Before ordering, mark out the outer dimensions of the set with a garden hose or string, including the 70 cm behind the chairs. Then walk around it once with a tray in your hands. That'll tell you straight away whether it fits.
Available 4-seater garden sets compared
All sets in this table are from Garden Impressions, have 4 seats according to the specifications and an aluminium frame. The table sizes, cushions and special features come from the product information.
| Set | Table | Cushions and extras |
|---|---|---|
| Dido chairs + Rimini | 80x80 cm | 4 cushions |
| Cosmo/Felini | 160x84 cm | No cushions |
| Oklahoma/Felini | 160x84 cm, teak look | 4 cushions |
| Osaka/Felini | 160x84 cm | Adjustable backrest |
| Paris chairs + Terni | 160x90 cm | 8 cushions |
| Felini five-piece | 160x90 cm | 8 cushions |
| Sergio/Gosford | 180x100 cm | 4 cushions |
| Oklahoma chairs + Gosford | 180x100 cm | 4 cushions |
According to the product information, all sets come with a 2-year manufacturer's guarantee. For the full and current range, including other brands, see the 4-seater garden sets and the dining garden sets.
Recommendations by situation
We haven't tested the sets ourselves. For each situation we've picked the set that, on paper, suits best: the right table size for your patio, cushions if you want them, and a frame that can live outdoors.
What we look at
- A table size that suits 4 people and the shape of the patio
- An aluminium frame, which doesn't rust like steel
- Whether cushions are included, according to the specifications
- Seat height and, where applicable, an adjustable backrest
Small, square patio: Dido chairs with Rimini table
With an 80x80 cm table, this is the smallest set in the overview. There's one person on each side, so everyone has 80 cm of table edge. According to the specifications the chairs are black, 4 cushions are included and the seat height is 41 cm. You need at least 2.2 by 2.2 metres. The set is also available with moss green Dido chairs.
4-seater garden set: 4 black Dido chairs and Rimini table
Narrow patio, minimal fuss: Cosmo/Felini with 160 cm table
The Felini table is 160 cm long but only 84 cm wide. On a narrow patio, this leaves you more walking space on both sides. According to the specifications, the set is grey aluminium with a seat height of 45 cm. No cushions are included: handy if you don't want to bring anything indoors, and otherwise you can buy them separately.
Cosmo/Felini 4-seater garden set with 160 cm table
Warm wood look: Oklahoma/Felini with teak-look table
The same table size of 160x84 cm, but with a table in teak look and brown chairs. According to the specifications the material is aluminium; the wood look is a finish, not real wood that needs oiling. 4 cushions are included and the seat height is 46 cm.
Oklahoma/Felini 4-seater garden set with 160 cm teak-look table
Lingering over dinner: Osaka/Felini with adjustable chairs
Do you like to stay seated for an hour or so after eating? According to the specifications, the Osaka chairs have an adjustable backrest, so you can lean back a little. The table is again the Felini of 160x84 cm, the whole set is grey aluminium and the seat height is 43 cm. No cushions are included. If you want the same chairs with a slightly wider 160x90 cm table, have a look at the Osaka chairs with Terni table.
Osaka/Felini 4-seater garden set with adjustable chairs
Generous seating: Sergio/Gosford with 180x100 cm table
With a length of 180 cm and a width of 100 cm, everyone has extra elbow room, and there's space in the middle for dishes and a bottle of wine. According to the specifications, the set is grey aluminium, with 4 cushions and a seat height of 42 cm. Allow for a floor space of at least 3.2 by 2.4 metres. In the same size there's also the set with Oklahoma chairs and Gosford table, in black.
Sergio/Gosford 4-seater garden set
Material and maintenance
According to the specifications, all the sets available in this overview are made of aluminium. It's lightweight, so you can easily move the chairs, and it doesn't rust like steel. What can still happen, and how to prevent it, is explained in can an aluminium garden set rust. A table in teak look, such as on the Oklahoma/Felini, has the appearance of wood without the need to oil or sand it.
Maintenance is simple. The product information recommends cleaning the set regularly with a soft cloth and lukewarm soapy water, and protecting it with a protective cover during prolonged bad weather. Store the cushions somewhere dry when the weather is bad. You'll find more tips in how to maintain aluminium garden furniture and which garden set can stay outside.
Aluminium garden sets
View sets →
Dining garden sets
View sets →
Separate garden tables for 4
View tables →Comfort: seat height, cushions and backrest
Comfort comes down to a few measurements you'll find in the product information. The seat height of the sets above ranges from 41 cm (Dido) to 47 cm (Felini five-piece). A higher seat is easier to get up from, a lower one feels more relaxed. With a table of 72 to 76.5 cm high, all these seat heights work well.
Also check the cushions: one set includes 4, another 8, and some none at all. Without cushions, you've nothing to carry indoors if it starts raining, but with cushions you'll be more comfortable during a long evening. An adjustable backrest, such as on the Osaka chairs, is nice if you like to stay seated for a long time after eating. You can read more about comfortable seating in choosing a good adjustable garden chair and which garden chair is the most comfortable.
Test: which 4-seater garden set suits you?
Answer four short questions and see which set best suits your patio and the way you like to eat outdoors.
Which 4-seater garden set suits you?
What does the patio area look like where the eating area for four will go?
- Small and almost square, around 2.2 to 2.6 metres
- Narrow and elongated, about 3 by 2.3 metres
- Spacious, at least 3.2 by 2.4 metres
How long do you stay at the table after eating?
- Not long, we eat and then clear up
- A long time, I like to be able to lean back
- A long time, and there are regularly dishes and plates on the table
What do you think about seat cushions on the chairs?
- I'd rather not have them, then I don't need to bring anything indoors
- I'd like them, I'm more comfortable with cushions
- I'll buy cushions separately if I need them
Which finish of the table top appeals to you in a set for four?
- Sleek aluminium in a dark colour
- A warm wood look without oiling or sanding
- Black and compact, it shouldn't stand out too much
Compact: Dido chairs with Rimini table 80x80 cm A square table with one chair on each side. According to the specifications, it comes with 4 cushions, in black or moss green. At least 2.2 by 2.2 metres is enough.
Narrow and sleek: Cosmo/Felini with 160 cm table An aluminium set with a table of 160x84 cm, without cushions. Fits on a narrow patio of at least 3 by 2.25 metres.
Lingering over dinner: Osaka/Felini with adjustable chairs According to the specifications, the chairs have an adjustable backrest, so you can sit back a little after eating. The same Felini table of 160x84 cm.
Generous seating: Sergio/Gosford with 180x100 cm table More table space per person and a wider top for serving dishes, with 4 cushions. Allow at least 3.2 by 2.4 metres.
Warm wood look: Oklahoma/Felini with teak-look table An aluminium set with a teak-look table of 160x84 cm and 4 cushions. The wood look needs no oil.
Still undecided between a garden set, a lounge set or a different type of furniture? The selection guide will help you along in a few steps.
How to choose in 5 steps
Measure the length and width of the patio area where the set will go, up to the first obstacle: a fence, planter, step or a door that opens outwards.
Deduct 70 cm on each side for the chairs. What remains is the maximum table size. For four: 80x80 cm, round Ø110 to 122 cm, or 160 cm or 180 cm long.
Square patio: a square or round table. Narrow or elongated patio: a rectangular table, and the narrower the patio, the narrower the table.
Do you want cushions or not? If you tend to linger after dinner, choose chairs with an adjustable backrest.
Sleek in black or grey aluminium, or warmer with a teak-look table. Also consider the colour of the chairs against your patio and planting.
Common mistakes
Only measuring the table
A 160 cm table may seem small, but with chairs and sliding room you need at least 3 by 2.25 metres. Always measure the set including 70 cm behind each chair.
Assuming cushions are included
The Cosmo/Felini and the Osaka/Felini come without cushions, according to the specifications. Check "Cushions included" in the product information so you're not caught out.
A wide table on a narrow patio
On a narrow patio, the width of the table is often the problem rather than the length. A table 84 cm wide leaves 16 cm more walking space than one 100 cm wide.
Buying for the biggest group
If you sit with four nine times out of ten, don't buy a set for six. A 180 cm table gives room for an extra guest at the short end now and then, without taking over your whole patio.
Think about shade
If you're planning to add a parasol, leave room for the parasol base or place a cantilever parasol beside the set. To find out when buying a set is most cost-effective, read when to buy a garden set.
Checklist before you order
- Patio measured up to the first obstacle
- 70 cm behind each chair included, or 90 cm if there's a walkway
- Table size chosen: 80x80, round, 160 or 180 cm
- Checked whether cushions are included
- Seat height and backrest considered
- Storage for the cushions and the set in winter arranged
- A protective cover in the right size found
More 4-seater garden sets
Paris chairs + Terni table 160 cm
View set →Felini five-piece garden set
View set →
Oklahoma chairs + Gosford table
View set →All 4-seater garden sets
View range →Looking for something smaller for a balcony? Take a look at the balcony garden sets. For more general tips on sizes and materials, see buying a garden set: what to look out for.
Frequently asked questions
How big should a garden table for 4 people be?
Allow 60 to 70 cm of table edge per person. With two people on each long side, that comes to a rectangular table about 160 cm long and at least 80 to 90 cm wide, such as the Felini at 160x84 cm. A square 80x80 cm table, such as the Rimini, also works: then there is one person on each side.
How much space do you need for a garden set for 4 people?
Add 70 cm twice to the length and width of the table. A set with a 160x84 cm table therefore needs a minimum of 3 by 2.25 metres, a set with an 80x80 cm table a minimum of 2.2 by 2.2 metres, and a set with a 180x100 cm table a minimum of 3.2 by 2.4 metres. If you also want to be able to walk behind a seated chair, allow 90 cm instead of 70 cm.
Which garden set for 4 people fits on a small terrace?
On a small, almost square terrace, a set with a square table works best, such as the garden set with 4 Dido chairs and the 80x80 cm Rimini table. You need at least 2.2 by 2.2 metres for it. If your terrace is narrow and long, choose a set with a narrow table, such as the Felini at 160x84 cm.
Are cushions included with a garden set for 4 people?
This varies by set. According to the specifications, the Oklahoma/Felini, the Sergio/Gosford and the set with Dido chairs and Rimini table include 4 cushions, and the Parijs/Terni set includes 8. The Cosmo/Felini and the Osaka/Felini are delivered without cushions. So always check "Cushions included" in the product information.
Can an aluminium garden set for 4 people stay outside?
An aluminium frame does not rust like steel and can withstand rain. However, the product information recommends protecting the set with a cover during prolonged bad weather. Store the cushions somewhere dry when the weather is poor. You can read more about this in our guide to which garden set can stay outdoors.
Is a round or a rectangular table better for 4 people?
A round or square table is sociable, everyone can see each other, and it fits well on a square terrace. A rectangular table follows the line of a long, narrow terrace and leaves room in the middle for dishes. A round table of Ø122 cm needs roughly 2.6 by 2.6 metres, while a rectangular table of 160x84 cm needs at least 3 by 2.25 metres.
