Although similar in function, dining rooms can vary greatly from home to home. Dining rooms may differ in formality, size and style. However, when decorating the dining room there are several basic design elements that remain the same. Here are some tips for decorating your dining area.
The Table – When selecting a dining room table, it’s important to determine what shape, size, material and style would work with the space, budget and your families’ lifestyle. For example, a round table is wonderful for conversation, but can’t accommodate as many guests as a large rectangular table. The table’s material (i.e. glass, hardwood, marble, etc.) should also be taken into account and will further communicate the room’s mood. An elegant mahogany dining table would be a good choice for a large, formal dining room, while a round glass table would be a nice choice for a smaller dining area because it would promote a sense of space. Each material has its pros and cons as well. Hardwood tables will be durable and long-lasting, glass will attract dust while marble, if not kept sealed, will stain.
In the formal dining room above, San Francisco-based designer Kendall Wilkinson anchors the room with an elegant oval dining table. The dark wood beautifully contrasts the room’s neutral color palette. The fabulous pearl mosaic wallpaper and glass chandelier again add a sense of formality to the room.
The Chairs – It is best if you choose a table first and then chairs {but, of course there is really no rule when it comes to design}. Ideally chair backs should be higher than the table. A standard table height is 29” or 30” and seat height is 18”. If possible, test a chair out for comfort before buying. A bench (without a back) can look great at a dining room table, but may not be relaxing enough for a long meal.
San Francisco-based, designer Kimberly Ayres selects crisp white Chinese Chippendale arm chairs with citrus cushions in the dining room above. The chair is one of my favorites because of the fretwork back, comfy cushion and ethnic flair. It looks like it is from Jonathan Adler, but I am not 100 sure.
The Lighting – Generally the bottom of a hanging fixture should hang 30” to 34” above the table. A traditional crystal chandelier is always elegant, but you may want to also consider other styles such as pendants, lanterns and modern fixtures in a variety of materials (i.e. wood, metal, plastic). Adding wall sconces and table lamps are a great way to layer the room’s lighting and create some drama. Also, consider putting all lights on dimmer switches so that you can adjust the room’s mood.
It is also fun to mix up styles as in the dining room above by designer Tami Wassong. The whimsical vintage chandelier is a wonderful juxtaposition to the traditional table and chairs. Wassong layers the room’s light by adding sconces flanking a mirror.
The Buffet – A buffet table, sideboard or storage console can be another beautiful design element in a dining room and a very practical one. Many store dishware, linens and table decor. In addition they provide a place to display fresh flowers, ceramic vases and table lamps.
The stunning dining room above by New York-based Parlor Design (featured in this post), showcases a gorgeous custom credenza with metal inlay from the Parlor Design furniture collection. The silver floral wallpaper and ice blue upholstered chairs are exquisite.
For a classic look, consider hanging a mirror or piece of art above the buffet. In this lovely dining room, designer Billet Collins hangs a large rectangle mirror above a sideboard table. The hand painted landscape mural is a beautiful addition to the room.
The Rug – If you have a hard flooring surface and want to help define the dining area, adding an area rug is a good option. When selecting an area rug make sure when the chairs are pulled back to accommodate guests while seated, that the entire chair rests on the area rug. You want to avoid having the back legs on the hard surface and the front legs on the area rug.
In this beautiful dining room by California-based designer Erinn Valencich the black and white rug demands our attention and helps define the space. The rug’s pattern also echos the more refined black and white pattern in the drapes. I love the fact that this room is not matchy-matchy and that Valencich selects a chartreuse geometric fabric to cover the dining chairs.
Remember these are simply decorating tips, not rules. There is no right or wrong when it comes to interior design. So, have fun with it!
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