Al Fresco is an Italian style of dining; painting or room arrangement that incorporates a “live” atmosphere. It uses colors and outdoor mood to set an environment that promotes fresh air, relaxation and refinement, as only the Italian can do. Typically, the Al Fresco garden is a creation that allows people to dine in leisure, savoring fresh food, surrounded by lush plant life, lots of fresh air and serenaded by a mood enhancing fountain or other source of running water. Mention Al Fresco dining to most people and the image that immediately comes to mind is one of a glorious dining experience set on a secluded patio, deck or rooftop, complete with a splendidly set dining table, fabulous foods, a fountain running in the background and lush plant life surrounding the outdoor eating space.

The first step to converting your outdoor space is to assess the levels of ambient noise that will permeate the area. If you live in a city, you will never be able to totally eradicate noise, but you can, with careful planning, reduce that noise to a low din. By pre-determining the level of noise that naturally exists in your environment, you can then decide the types of “noise” reducers that you will need to drown them out and create an atmosphere that resembles a fresh air dining space from eras past. Trellises covered with lush vines also acts as a clever noise barrier. For a more permanent effect, you may want to consider a wall made of Italian brick or stucco. If you take this route, consider building in a couple of shelves on which you can place interesting potted flowers or Italian pottery for a true Italian feel. You will find a fabulous selection of authentic Italian dinnerware for your dining experience at Upside Living.

We found this charming setting to be the perfect Al Fresco dining example for your backyard at Chris the Cook website. Be sure to check out his delicious recipes while you’re there. Enjoy!