Whether you have a dedicated dining room or just a dining space, you'll want to decorate it so that it’s comfortable while still reflecting a certain level of style and sophistication.
It doesn't matter if your style is casual or contemporary, you can incorporate elements that reflect your personality to create a setting you can gather around.
Think about the dining table
As the feature element in a dining room, the dining table takes centre stage and sets the tone for the room. When putting your dining room together, think about the size and style of the table, as this ultimately determines how you’ll accessorise the space.
In South Africa, we’re somewhat limited by choice, especially when looking at furniture styles from around the world.
Sites such as Pinterest and Indulgy have raised our expectations for decorating and we can't always find what we like, or what we've seen and want to replicate.
It may take some shopping around to find the perfect dining table and if you intend on splurging on an expensive table that will last a lifetime, it's a good idea to take your time until you find that perfect piece.
Choosing dining chairs
Your chairs should fit around the table and complement the style and setting of the space. You don't want to spend your life cleaning upholstered fabric in a house full of children and pets, so shop wisely and consider your wants and needs.
You also want comfortable chairs, especially if you love to entertain.
There are plenty of styles to choose from, from traditional wood to modern upholstered.
Use different furniture elements
If space permits, you may want to incorporate other furniture elements in the dining room.
A server or sideboard could provide storage for all your crockery, cutlery and linens, and can also be used as a surface for placing dishes for buffet style meals.
When shopping for a server or sideboard, select a piece in the same style as the table and chairs to prevent a clash of styles.
Upgrade your lighting
Lighting is also important in a dining room or dining space. Since the table is the centrepiece, hanging a dramatic pendant or chandelier above will solidify the table as the main feature.
However, the lighting you choose should be determined by the atmosphere you want to create and the size of your dining room. You can use a beautiful pendant for a casual setting or a brilliant chandelier for a more formal dining room experience.
Add a rug
In an open-plan dining room, adding a beautiful rug will help define the space and create a zone around the dining area.
The rug should be large enough to still accommodate the chairs when they’re pulled out from the table.
At a family table where children sit, use a natural fibre rug where spills and stains can be easily removed.
Add soft window treatments
Window treatments bring a level of softness to otherwise hard edges. Sharp pencil pleats or long, flowing curtains can be used to dress windows, creating privacy and introducing colour, pattern and texture.
Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise
Accessories are just as important in a dining room as they are in any other room in the home.
From centrepieces for the table to art for the walls, accessories can be used as the finishing touches for the dining room. What’s important is not to overdo the decoration.
Allow the table and chairs to shine and let the lighting, window treatments and other elements fill the space without overpowering the senses.
A large mirror can make a dining room feel visually larger, bouncing light around the space. You can use a piece of art, create a gallery wall or display your favourite collectibles to fill large, blank expanses of wall. This is also an easy way of adding a personal touch.
Article courtesy of www.home-dzine.co.za.