Make dinnertime an anticipated event and entertain in style with these top tips for for creating the perfect dining room space
What you need to consider to create the perfect dining room space
Turn family meal time into an anticipated part of the day with a stylish, contemporary dining room. These tips for decorating your dining room will ensure you have a robust, functional and inviting space that family and friends will flock to.
The perfect sized dining table
Choosing the right size dining table comes down to two things: the size of the room and the number of diners who will use it. Ideally, there should be 1m to 1.2m of space between the table and the walls or any furniture.
For smaller rooms, a round table or square table is the perfect space saver. But, if you’re after a classic entertaining space, rectangular is the way to go. It’s also important to consider the number of diners regularly using the table to avoid elbows touching during meal time.
The right dining room chairs
Gone are the days of matching dining table and chairs sets. Instead, look for pieces that enhance and complement each other. A bench is great for a casual vibe while upholstered chairs can create a more traditional look.
With upholstery, avoid hard-to-care-for fabrics like velvet. Cotton blends or leather tend to be easiest to clean. When choosing dining chairs, opt for a style that is 45 to 60 centimetres deep. Select chairs that allow at least 30 centimetres of space between the top of the chair and the top of the table.
The best lighting for your dining room
Dining rooms are often minimally furnished, as such, a statement pendant light can create interest in the space. Evenly-spaced single pendants look great above a rectangular table.
A cluster of globes, however, are a dynamic lighting choice for a smaller, round table. Leave between 75 and 90 centimetres of space when hanging a pendant light above your dining table.
Kitchen and dining room layout
Ease of access between the kitchen and dining rooms is a must. Open-plan areas are the easiest way to connect the two spaces and are perfect for getting food on the table! However, adjoining rooms can turn your eating space into a beautiful formal dining room that’s ideal for entertaining.
Decorate your dining table
Dining table centerpieces should either be below eye-level or tall and thin as diners should be able to easily chat at the table. But, that’s really the only rule when it comes to decorating your dining table with a centrepiece.
Flowers or plants in a clear vase never fail to look incredible while candles have the added bonus of creating beautiful ambient lighting. If you tend to love a big feast and need as much table space as you can get, group your pieces on a portable board.
Words by: Stephanie Marinkovic. Images by: Helen Bankers, Kate Claridge, Chris Warnes, Maree Homer, Jenni Hare / bauersyndication.com.au.
This article originally appeared on Homes to Love Australia
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