A dining room can be very challenging to design as it’s a room you have no choice but to show others. Ideally, you want to create something that’s functional, has an atmosphere appropriate for special events, can serve many guests, as well as make a statement about you. That’s a tall order. Here are some tips that can guide you to the right choices.
Tables
The first thing you need to decide is the shape and size of your dining room table. Round tables promote conversations, while rectangular tables accommodate the most guests. Square tables provide a modern look. Oval tables bring curves to square rooms. The most important thing to remember is that your dining table should be easy to walk around, even when the chairs are pulled out.
Also, be sure to add storage for china and serving pieces. Buffet tables, sideboards, and credenzas are common dining room pieces that are perfect for service and storage.
Chairs
After you’ve decided on your table, you’ll need to get chairs that match the table’s design. Consider how the chairs work with the table, especially if you’re buying them separately. Make sure the chairs, including arms, fit under the table and don’t bump anything. When testing the chair, actually sit down in it, and make sure your legs don’t hit anything.
Colour, Material, and Style
Regardless of the style you’re going for, you’ll want your dining room set to be comfortable. Wood, metal, and glass are the most common materials for tables, and they all look great. But if you want your dining room set to last a long time, hardwoods are an excellent choice.
Bringing It All Together: Basic Dining Room Sets
The simplest dining room set is a table and chairs. If your room is small, that’s probably all you need. After all, the most important part of a nice meal is having enough room for everyone. When dealing with limited space, it’s best to keep it simple.
Formal Dining Room Sets
A formal dining room set can be expensive and will require a large space. But for those with the room and the budget, there’s no better way to entertain. A formal dining room set is made up of a large table (seating at least six), accompanying chairs, and a buffet.
When dealing with more than four or five people, rectangular tables are generally better than round or square ones as they have less dead space in the middle. A square or circular table will have more room for a centrepiece, but a centrepiece isn’t always a good idea because it may block people and hinder conversation.
Be Yourself
When shopping around for furniture, pick out something that appeals to you. If you move, it won’t matter what the original dining room looked like. Match the room with the furniture. Paint and decorations are cheap compared to dining room sets.