Enjoying mealtimes together can be a fantastic way for families to experience each other’s company, and devour some tasty treats together. However, the dining room itself is often a neglected room, and many families choose practicality over style and comfort. Isn’t it time we learned to enjoy mealtimes in style?
Dining room dreams
Dining room design can be as diverse as the rest of your house; combining functionality and style is a fantastic way to create a space you’ll want to dine in for every meal. The first thing to consider is the look you’re seeking to create. Whether you would like a shabby chic style, a child-friendly space, a more minimalist look, or an open-plan kitchen and dining room, the design options are as limitless as your imagination. Are you a regular dinner party host? Are you more comfortable in a cozy, relaxed space? Do you have children to keep entertained at mealtimes? Think carefully about how your dining room will be used, as this will give your interior design dreams an important starting point.
It is also essential to consider the size and shape of your intended dining room. Not all homes have sufficient space to create a single function dining room, and you may find that a multipurpose room, combining a dining and living space, or open plan kitchen/diner, works better for your family’s needs. It is essential to measure and create plans for potential dining areas, and ensure that all of your furniture and accessories will fit. Working around the space you have available will often help you to plan the finer details; alcoves and original wooden features can work well with a vintage or shabby chic design, while light and airy kitchen/diners lend themselves to modern and minimalistic interiors.
Food for thought
Now you’ve decided what it is you want from your dining room, it’s time to let those creative juices flow. Never underestimate the power of color; whether you paint the entire room, add splashes of color in the form of wallpapered features, or simply add some bright accessories, a vibrant and inviting room can make mealtimes a proper occasion. Dining rooms that need to cater to children’s needs work well in Technicolor; they’ll be tempted up to the table no matter what’s on the menu. Looking for a more modern design, or something a little rustic? Patterned paper, black and white accessories, and neutral walls will give a contemporary feel, while warm beiges and creams ensure an air of country living.
Once you’ve decorated, it’s time to start thinking about furnishing. If you host regular dinner parties, then extending dining tables, beautifully upholstered chairs, and plenty of furniture storage are a must, while quieter family mealtimes can be complemented with cozy armchairs, friendly round tables, and sideboards. Try sourcing second hand or bespoke pieces, including distressed furniture for a shabby chic or vintage feel, or copper accessories and traditional oak furniture for a warm, rustic style.
Dining rooms are one of the most frequently neglected rooms. However, as more and more people seek to capture the magic of family mealtimes, renovating these tired spaces into fabulously stylish rooms is becoming more popular; get ready to dine in style.