Your dining room is a truly dynamic space. A space for eating, entertaining and sometimes even working. It’s important to focus on what you want to achieve with the space, and how you might use it. You can then work out your desired layout and style.
Adding atmosphere to a dining room is vital. In any interior space, lighting is one of the keys aspects that need to be considered. More often than not the dining table is the focal point. A pendant light hung in the centre of the table at a low level will create a bold statement, creating atmosphere and lighting up the main space at meal times. Having this light on a dimmer switch will create the right mood and setting for your home. If the table is larger, you may consider more than one light fitting. A dining room is often used at night, so it’s important to create ambience – this can be created by a strategically placed floor lamp. Candles always help too, creating a cosy feel.
When decorating your dining room consider soft tones such as pebble, taupe, greige. A neutral colour palette evokes a calming feeling, which is complementary for a space where large groups gather. If you wanted to add more colour and personality, then teal and turquoise are colours perfect for a social space. If you wanted to add pops of colours then add it through table runners, eye-catching upholstery, and table crockery. Don’t forget that warm reds are appetite stimulating !
When it comes to furniture, it goes without saying that the dining table is the most important piece of furniture to invest in. If your space allows for it then a large table to seat all guests is best. Don’t fall into the trap of buying a table that is suitable for large gatherings, such as Christmas. If you don’t need that capacity for 99% of the year, then consider an extendable table, which can be used when required. When space is an issue you could store away some folding chairs, and bring them out when needed. Other ways of space saving is to use bench seating, they can be tucked under the table when not in use, allowing ease of movement around the table. You can add sheepskins to them, to create a softer feel. If your dining room allows for it, then a sideboard is a brilliant way to have additional storage, and the surface can also be used for soft lighting and accessories.
In some instances, you might not have a separate room for dining. You might have very little space, and need to utilise every inch. Apartments and new builds often combine the living room, kitchen and dining room, all in one. In this instance introducing differing height levels is important. It makes the space feel bigger, drawing the eye up. For example, in this studio apartment we introduced a high bistro table with bar stools, a perfect place to eat, or perch and do some work. It maximised the space and created a relaxed feel to the space.
