For a while, the separate dining room seemed to be disappearing as kitchens opened up and meals moved to the island. Yet many homeowners are rediscovering the pleasure of a dedicated room for sitting down together. The secret is to design it so it feels special without feeling stiff.
Begin with the table
The table sets the scale and mood of the room. Choose a size that leaves comfortable space to pull out chairs and walk around. Round and oval tables encourage conversation and suit smaller rooms, while a long rectangular table with an extension leaf is ideal for families who host often.
Make the lighting a feature
A chandelier or a generous pendant centred over the table is the classic focal point. Hang it low enough to create an intimate pool of light and fit a dimmer so the room can move from bright family lunch to candlelit dinner. Wall lights or picture lights add warmth around the edges.
A dining room should invite people to linger, long after the last plate is cleared.
Add storage with character
A built-in china cabinet, a sideboard or a pair of glazed cupboards keeps serving pieces close at hand and gives you a place to display favourite glassware. Original cabinets in older homes are well worth restoring.
- Choose comfortable upholstered chairs that people are happy to sit in for hours
- Use a durable rug that is large enough for chairs to stay on it when pulled out
- Bring in rich wall colour, panelling or wallpaper for a sense of enclosure
- Keep a few everyday touches, such as a fruit bowl or fresh flowers, so it feels lived in
Use it every day
The best dining rooms are not saved for special occasions. Use them for homework, puzzles, morning coffee and weekend breakfasts. A room that is used often feels warm, and it quickly becomes one of the most loved spaces in the house.
If you would like to create a dining room your family will gather in, our interior team can help with layout, lighting, storage and finishes.