Back to the Table

Of all of the rooms in the house, none has seen such a drastic change in style over time as has the dining room.  The formal dining rooms that were only used on special occasions and holidays are virtually extinct in today’s lifestyle.  The den became the great room, and the kitchen became an open floor plan with many functions.  Kitchen tables were replaced by large islands.  Some of the changes were good, others not so much.

I never really understood the giant kitchen islands replacing the table.  As an Italian woman, there is nothing more important to me than family and food.  Somehow sitting all in a line facing the sink just seems so impersonal!  It’s not just about eating food, it’s about the entire dining experience.  Happily, the dining experience is back!  I’m getting more and more requests to redesign the eating area.  The very casual space is becoming a little more special.  We’re spending more time at home with friends, and the kitchen is now the “hub”, but we still want dining to be special.

Whether it be a table for 4, or one that can seat 12, an option exists for everyone.  Dining chairs can be matched, mismatched, upholstered, wood, metal or a combination of everything.  Here are some of our dining room inspirations to get you thinking about your dining space!

 

A bench seat and a table have so many possibilities!  Lots of room for diners, or a cozy place to curl up with a book!

 

A little distressed paint can add so much interest and lots of warmth to a dining table.  Paired with an upholstered chair, it becomes a warm and comfy dining space.

 

Not everything has to match.  In fact, mixing it up adds visual interest.  The open back of these chairs draws you right to the table.

 

 

 

 

 

Table for 2?  No more metal bistro table!

 

Cane backs give an airy feel to a heavy wood table to lighten the look.

 

Casual and minimalist don’t have to be stark.  A little mid-century modern can be the perfect compromise.

 

Dramatic?  The white upholstered chairs lighten the dramatic feel of this heavy table.

 

At first glance, this looks like a small dining table – but the benches just increase the space!

 

Here’s a great example of pairing several styles of furniture that works.  I love the lucite table.  And the shelving unit just helps to “pretty”  it up!

 

 

 

What is your favorite dining inspiration?  We love the idea to mix up your seating with some benches- would you try it?