The goal of a great dining room space is universal. It should be inviting and make guests want to linger at the table. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or you’re staying put, we’ve gathered four simple strategies to make your dining room a comfortable spot to gather around the table.
Give it a purpose. The table and chairs are the most important pieces of furniture in the room. Choose quality furniture, keeping your budget and your home’s overall design aesthetic. Comfortable chairs are key. A sideboard can be a great addition, but a large china cabinet and buffet may leave your room feeling stuffed.
Keep it light. Dining rooms can be dark spaces so add lighting for a feeling of spaciousness. A great light fixture over the table is a good start, but you may need to add more illumination. A sideboard is an ideal place to put matching lamps. If that’s not an option, wall sconces or a well-placed mirror can add extra light. Tip for sellers: Consider repainting dark walls with an elegant neutral.
Allow movement. Dinner guests need ample space. Make sure traffic can flow around furniture and through the room. When not in use, remove extra table leaves and display extra dining chairs on either side of a sideboard or window, providing symmetry and a feeling of luxury.
Set the scene (but not too much). A table runner and a vase of fresh flowers is a great start. Setting out every piece of your wedding china is clearly too much. Finish off the look with a few pieces of art on the walls.