It's a late spring evening. The sun's still lingering after 7pm, the air cool and comfortable – it feels like a waste to stay indoors. You step outside but immediately remember the problem: there's nowhere to sit.
All you really want is a simple spot for a cup of tea, or somewhere to eat lunch on a good day. But most dining sets consume the entire space, leaving you squeezed between furniture and fence.
Small gardens are common, especially in urban homes. The real challenge is finding furniture designed to work with the space, not against it.
La Redoute's Alata solves this. It's a half-moon folding table with two matching chairs – designed specifically for tight spaces. It works just as well on small patios, balconies or narrow garden layouts where space is limited.
The half-moon shape is clever. Positioned against a wall or fence, it doesn't demand the middle of your garden like traditional bistro sets.
Set it up and you've got proper seating for two. Fold it away and it vanishes into a shed or leans against the fence, taking up almost nothing either way.
Made from FSC-certified acacia with an oiled finish, the wood ages beautifully – it'll silver naturally over time, sitting comfortably amongst pots and plants without needing fussing over. The folding chairs slot in neatly without sprawl.
This handy addition will make late spring evenings in your garden feel enjoyable again. A proper place to sit, no matter how limited the space.
More small garden advice:
- 16 small garden design ideas that make the most of every inch
- 5 vegetables to plant in small gardens right now



















