The New Year is the perfect time to get your dining room in tip-top shape for family gatherings, incorporating on-trend elements that will freshen up the space and make it more inviting.
Anton Odendaal from Rochester shares some inspiration and the latest dining room trends. If you follow these tips, you’ll make this space look so good you’ll want to use it as often as possible:
Mix and match
Odendaal says you can transform a dining suite with a new set of chairs; they needn't even necessarily all be the same type of chairs.
An assortment of chairs in different styles is a huge trend at the moment, he says. “It creates a more personalised look and adds an informal touch to the traditional dining room, which has always been a bit predictable and stiff.”
Try a combination of seating arrangements such as high-back chairs, stools, or even a bench. Or opt for different finishes such as linen slipcovers, leather or fabric upholstery. Just be sure to keep one element, such as the colour, the same on each chair so that they all harmonise with one another.
For a more dramatic look, go for high contrast with light coloured chairs and a dark wood table.
“Working with contrast is a decorator’s secret weapon, as it’s an easy way of creating visually stimulating contrast, without overwhelming the space."
Light the way
Odendaal says you can transform your dining space with a variety of light sources. Floor-to-ceiling windows or skylights are a great way to bring in natural light, making the space feel more open, and incorporating the indoor-outdoor trend.
An eye-catching light fixture hung low above the dining table makes the space feel more magnetic, creates a focal point in the room and provides light exactly where you need it.
“Just be sure to choose a light fitting that suits the size and style of the room. And don’t forget soft candlelight - it instantly changes the mood,” he says.
Store all
Storage is essential for a streamlined clutter-free dining space, and there are ample ways of incorporating storage solutions that not only serve a practical purpose, but look good too.
Sideboards are a great starting point in any dining room, as they are purpose-made for storing all your dinnerware, cutlery, placemats, tablecloths and napkins behind closed doors, while allowing you to display your artwork on top of it to create a focal point in your dining room.
A built-in bench with hidden storage underneath is also a great option for small spaces, whilst a plate rail allows you to take advantage of vertical space, says Odendaal.
If your dining room does double duty as a home office or library, clever storage solutions are even more important. Dining rooms that are only used on special occasions can be put to work on a daily basis by turning them into a multiuse space, he says. Incorporate shelves or a grand bookcase where books can be displayed, acting as a backdrop for your dining room.
“Include a cabinet or an armoire where office equipment such as your printer can be hidden and all your paperwork and laptop can be stashed away when guests come over for dinner.”
Take your cue from nature
Odendaal says an all-neutral colour palette and natural materials lend themselves wonderfully to a dining area. The trick is to mix a variety of textures and layers.
Start with a timeless dining table with plenty of character to add warmth to the space. Linen or microfiber chairs set upon a traditional area rug in muted tones adds another layer to the look. Then top off the look with green accents such as a striking floral arrangement, dinnerware or napkins.
“If done right, a neutral dining room is anything but boring, yet it will offer you longevity of style,” he says.
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