Turning an outdoor space into an Al Fresco dining room requires a creative mind that will incorporate the natural habitat with that of a peaceful dining area. This can be done in many different ways, but the goal is to pull together an area that people feel relaxed, happy and peaceful. Depending on where you live, this can be as easy as walking into your backyard and setting up a picnic table or as difficult as having to erect barrier walls, climbing vines and at least one source of “white” noise to drowned out the sounds of a city, highway or pedestrians.

Using a fountain or small pond is another way to create a mood, drown outside noises and encourage tranquility. This can work in both urban and rural areas as the sound of running water tends to soothe just about everyone in any environment. Whether you use a smaller, tabletop version or go to the expense of having an in ground bubbling fountain or pond. There are simple and sophisticated fountains, ponds and pond and fountain combinations available on the internet and depending on your skills at designing, can be as simple or complex as your imagination allows.

Make sure your garden area is filled with colorful plants and flowers, which echo the vibrant culture of Italy. If you have a small space, consider container plantings with authentic Italian pottery and planters, using fragrant flowers that have a long bloom season. In larger backyards, the sky is the limit – your outdoor dining area can be as lush and romantic as your pocketbook will allow. For mood and accent lighting infuse some copper tiki torches and oil lamps or romantic wood burning fire pit.