There’s nothing better than hanging out on the patio with friends and family—unless you’re constantly running back and forth to grab drinks. That’s exactly why I decided to build a DIY tile-topped patio table with built-in drop-in sections for an ice chest (or a planter if you’re feeling fancy). I wanted something stylish, functional, and easy to clean—because let’s be real, spills happen.
This project is perfect if you want to upgrade your outdoor space without spending a fortune. Just like my DIY Outdoor Modern Sofa Plans. (PDF Digital plans here) The tile top makes it super durable, and the built-in sections add that extra wow factor. Whether you’re chilling with a cold drink or adding some greenery to your setup, this table has you covered. Let’s get into it!
Materials Needed:
- 36 Terrazzo Tiles
- (3) 8ft 2×4’s
- (1) 3/4″ plywood
- (2) 8ft 1×3’s
- planters for “ice chest”
- 2.5″ screws
- drill/driver
- kreg jig
- miter saw
- sander with 150 and 220 grit
- paint/stain
- wood glue
- 2 small L-brackets
Steps for this build:
Plan the layout:
Before building, lay out your tiles on a flat surface to get a feel for the design. This helps you determine the exact dimensions of your table and ensures the tile placement looks balanced, especially around the insert openings. I decided to make my table top the exact dimensions of full tiles going across and length wise to minimize cuts.
Build the Base:
Once you have the size of your tabletop decided, you can build the base accordingly. Construct a sturdy base using 2x4s or other outdoor-friendly wood. This will support the weight of the tile top and inserts, so make sure it’s solid and level. A simple rectangular frame with cross supports will do the trick. Example below. My legs were 26.5″ tall on both sides, with a 30″ long 2×4 connecting them and a 27″ support at the bottom between the two vertical legs. I made a set of 2 and connected them with 2×4’s going between the two legs.
Cut the Table Top:
Use the 3/4″ plywood to cut your tabletop to size. My dimensions were 50 3/8″ x 36.5″. Mark and cut out the openings where your ice bucket or planter inserts will drop in. These should be snug enough to hold the inserts securely but easy to remove when needed.
Paint the base and Trim:
Before securing the table top to the base, it is much easier to paint it first. To protect the wood and add a polished look, paint or stain the table base. I used the color Seafoam Storm by Valspar. Cut 1x2s to frame the tabletop edges and paint or stain them as well. This will create a finished border around the tile.
Make your Tile Cuts:
Measure and cut tiles to fit around the insert openings and edges. A wet saw makes this step much easier, especially for precise cuts. Take your time to ensure a clean, professional look. This also is where planning out ahead of time helps out, making minimal cuts.
Secure Tile and Grout:
Use a strong outdoor-rated adhesive to attach the tiles to the tabletop. Once set, apply grout or exterior silicone to fill the gaps, wiping away excess before it dries. I chose to not use spacers for a smaller grout line. This step locks everything in place and gives your table a seamless look.
Attach the top to the Base:
Once the tile is fully set and dry, secure the tabletop to the base using screws or brackets. Make sure everything is level and sturdy before moving to the final steps.
Place Inserts into the Table & Fill with Ice or Flowers:
Drop your ice bucket inserts into the openings and fill them with ice for drinks or swap them out for plants to create a beautiful centerpiece. The versatility is what makes this table so fun!
*Optional*
If you want added shade, cut a hole in the center of the table for an umbrella. Then, add decor—outdoor-friendly chairs, string lights, or even a cute table runner—to complete the look.
And that’s it! Now you’ve got a stylish, functional patio table that’s perfect for entertaining.
And that’s it! Now you’ve got a stylish, functional patio table that’s perfect for entertaining.
