Design Recipes: Ideas for Dining Spaces

A glossy wood round table and elegant chairs helps to create a formal and luxurious feel in this dining space. Handout/TNS

By Cathy Hobbs From Tribune News Service

It is often said that the kitchen is the “heart” of the home, where a family often gathers as well as entertains its guests. An extension of this is often one’s dining space. These two areas of the home lend themselves to specific needs relating to gathering, aesthetics and functionality.

When it comes to dining spaces, these days, many homeowners may also desire flexibility. From size, shape, and materials, there are several options to evaluate and consider when selecting both tables and chairs for your home.

Tables

Tables come in all shapes and sizes as well as finishes. The first place to start should be size then shape.

Table Selection Tips

Measure your space to determine the “footprint” needed for your table.

Evaluate what size would work best. Typical shapes include rectangular, oval, round and square.

Select your desired table material based on durability, design aesthetics and budget.

Materials

Wood

Wood is a great choice when looking for durability. From tables that are intended for more formal dining rooms to those that are made by artisans, you can’t go wrong with wood.

Lacquer

Lacquer is a popular choice for those looking for a modern, sleek vibe. Lacquer can also allow one to integrate unique or custom colors into a space.

Glass

Glass is an ideal choice for smaller spaces as its transparency instantly allows a space to feel open and airy as opposed to closed in.

A long glass table serves as an additional reflective surface that helps this dining space feel open and bright. Handout/TNS

Shapes

Round or Oval versus Rectangular

If working with smaller rooms or spaces, oval or round is the best solution as it allows for increased circulation and flow.

Square tables work well in small environments such as studio apartments or where there is a need to seat 2-4 people.

Rectangular tables are ideal for larger rooms and for those looking to accommodate large groups of people at a single table. Shopping hacks for chairs

Mid-century modern wood chairs are paired with a classic oval shaped dining table. Handout/TNS

Dos

Do buy chairs for comfort.

Do buy 1-2 extra chairs in case one gets damaged, and you are unable to source.

Do source locally when possible.

Don’ts

Don’t purchase chairs in fabrics or materials that are hard to clean or become easily damaged.

Don’t ignore durability elements such as solid construction.

Don’t purchase chairs in odd numbers instead think of purchasing as a set our grouping.