Choosing a Folding Round Garden Table to Optimise Your Outdoor Space

When the sunny days return, it's time to enjoy every corner of your outdoor space, whether it's a large garden, a terrace, or a small balcony. However, furnishing these areas can quickly become a challenge, especially when space is limited. A folding round garden table is the ideal solution: it's sociable, stylish, and practical.

This article will guide you in making the right choice. We'll review the essential criteria to consider, before presenting a selection of models that meet different needs, whether you're looking for a small garden table for intimate dinners or a larger model to host friends and family.

Buying Guide: What to Check Before You Buy

To find the perfect table for your outdoor space and lifestyle, here are the key features to consider.

1. Material: From the Authenticity of Wood to the Modernity of Metal

The choice of material is crucial: it determines not only the style of your outdoor round table but also its durability and the maintenance it will require.

• Wood: A wooden garden table, especially one made from acacia, offers unmatched warmth and authenticity. Acacia wood is particularly suitable for folding garden furniture as it is naturally resistant to weather and insects. An FSC certified folding acacia table guarantees that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. Plan for annual maintenance (applying an oil or a sealant) to preserve its colour and protection.
• Metal: A metal garden table (usually steel) adds a contemporary touch and is available in a wide range of colours. For outdoor use, it is essential to check that it has received a protective treatment, such as an epoxy coating and an electro-deposition process, to protect it from rust and UV-induced fading.

2. Dimensions: From Balcony Tables to Family-Sized Tables

The diameter of the table determines its seating capacity and its footprint.

• For small spaces: If you're looking for a folding balcony table or a side table, a diameter of 60 to 80 cm is generally sufficient. This is the ideal size for a 2-person garden table, perfect for a morning coffee or an evening drink.
• For sociable meals: To comfortably seat 4 to 6 people, look for a model with a diameter of around 120 cm. The round shape promotes easy movement and conversation among guests, even on a modest-sized terrace.

3. Folding Mechanism: Everyday Practicality

The main advantage of these tables is their ability to be discreetly stored away after a meal. Check the simplicity of the folding mechanism and the table's footprint when folded. Some models are designed to stand upright on their own, a real bonus for storing them against a wall or in a garden shed.

Our Selection of Folding Round Garden Tables

To help you make your choice, here are three models that caught our eye for their design and functionality.

1. Proloisirs Sophie Round Garden Table - 120 cm Diameter

Why it stands out: This model successfully combines the elegance of a large wooden table with the convenience of a folding design. Its large 120 cm tabletop makes it a prime choice for meals with family or friends, without sacrificing space once the meal is over.

• Key features:

  • Seating capacity: The 120 cm diameter comfortably seats up to 6 people.
  • Durable material: Made from FSC certified acacia wood, it combines natural resistance with a warm aesthetic.
  • Optimised folding: The base folds in an instant for easy storage.

• Who is it for?: For those with a terrace or garden who love to entertain, but also want to maintain the flexibility of a modular space.

2. Proloisirs Sophie Side Table - 80 cm Diameter

Why it stands out: A more compact version of the previous model, this table is the very definition of a charming and functional small garden table. It boasts the same build quality as its larger counterpart, but in a format suited to more restricted spaces.

• Key features:

  • Compact size: Its 80 cm diameter is perfect for 2 people.
  • Ideal for balconies: Its dimensions make it an excellent choice for a folding balcony table.
  • Quality and aesthetics: It features the same FSC acacia wood construction as its larger counterpart.

• Who is it for?: For couples or apartment dwellers looking to create a dining or relaxation nook on their balcony or small terrace.

3. Hesperide Greensboro Round Garden Table - Clay

Why it stands out: The Greensboro table focuses on colour, lightness, and foolproof practicality. Its steel design and smart folding system make it an asset for the tightest urban spaces.

• Key features:

  • Ultra-easy storage: When folded, it stands upright on its own, a major plus for storage.
  • Lightweight: Weighing only 5.2 kg, it is moved and stored effortlessly.
  • Modern design: Its epoxy-treated steel frame and clay colour add a touch of modern cheerfulness.

• Who is it for?: For those looking for an ultra-compact, easy-to-handle solution who want to add a splash of colour to their balcony or small garden.

Looking for Other Options?

Our selection is just a glimpse of the possibilities offered by folding garden furniture. If you wish to explore other styles, materials, or dimensions, feel free to browse our full catalogue.

? Discover our full range of round garden tables

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I maintain a folding wooden garden table?

For a folding acacia table, simple but regular maintenance is recommended. Once a year, at the beginning of spring, clean the surface and apply a coat of exotic wood oil or a sealant. This will nourish the wood and revive its colour. After a rain shower, wipe the tabletop to prevent water from pooling and leaving marks.

What is the ideal size for a balcony table?

For a standard balcony, a table with a diameter of 60 to 80 cm is a smart choice. It provides enough space for two people without obstructing foot traffic. Folding models are particularly suitable, as they allow you to completely free up the balcony when the table is not in use.

Is a metal table truly rust-resistant?

Yes, provided it was designed for outdoor use. Quality steel tables are protected by specific treatments, such as an epoxy coating that makes them waterproof, often supplemented by an electro-deposition (cataphoresis) treatment for enhanced protection. It is still advisable to bring it indoors or cover it with a protective cover during the winter to maximise its lifespan.