Whether your dining room is a standalone space or part of a larger, open area, one thing is true: it’s an all-purpose spot that will accommodate everything from children’s parties to fancy dinner parties; from homework hours to everyday family meals. Over the years, your dining room is likely to see many holiday celebrations with your friends and family as well as lots of quiet moments with just you and your coffee. However, if you intend to use your dining room to its potential, it should be a welcoming space that reflects your personal style and tastes, suits your home’s architecture and existing décor (if applicable), and provides plenty of comfortable, attractive seating to accommodate just you or you and your entire family. When you’re ready to decorate (or redecorate) your dining room to create a warm, inviting place for delicious meals, good company, and lasting memories, here are a few formal dining room ideas to help you get started.
Consider the Size of the Room
When shopping for formal dining room sets, be sure to think about the size of your space and the size of the furniture you’re considering. Keep in mind that you should allow at least three feet of open space behind your chairs to give your guests plenty of room to get up and down comfortably. Also, it’s better to err on the side of larger: if you aren’t sure what size table you need, go for the bigger one (as long as it fits in the room using the “three feet” rule). Even if your family is small, you’re likely to have occasions when you need more seating. Besides, a table that’s too small for the room may make your dining room space look empty.
Choosing the Right Table
Whether you’re looking at traditional or contemporary dining room sets, there are several factors to consider when choosing the right table. Your dining room table is both the aesthetic centerpiece and the functional hub of your dining room. First, be sure that your table will seat enough people, giving each person at least two feet of space on the tabletop so that no one feels crowded. If your space is limited, a round table can work well and help you make the most of the space you do have. A longer, rectangular table is perfect for a longer, rectangular room. You can also choose a table with removable leaves to accommodate more or fewer diners.
Look under the table for another clue about how well it will work in your home. The base of the table – either a pedestal, a trestle, or legs – can affect how many people can sit there at one time. Make sure that the table’s supports don’t interfere with leg space. In general, thinner legs or legs positioned at the corners of the table will make it easier to squeeze in an extra diner or two when necessary. Or, choose a pedestal-style table, which allows the most legroom and flexibility regarding the number of diners.
Be sure the table you are considering is made to be sturdy and durable. The joinery, or the places where the tabletop and base fit together, should be robust and well-made. Wood should be joined directly to wood for the strongest construction. The connection points should not be starting to separate, and the table should not be wobbly. A high-quality table will provide your family with years and years of comfortable, stylish dining and entertaining.
Choosing the Right Chairs
Many contemporary dining room sets come with matching tables and chairs for a cohesive look. However, you might find that you prefer the look of other chairs than the ones offered with your table. Or, perhaps you love your dining room table and only need to replace the chairs. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of options when it comes to selecting the perfect chairs for your dining room.
First, keep in mind that no rule says your chairs must match your table. In fact, they don’t even have to match each other. If you love the look of mismatched chairs, that’s fine – just make sure that they are all around the same height and fit comfortably under the table. You might choose open- or solid-backed chairs, or maybe upholstered chairs suit your style better. There are also many different materials to choose from, including wood, acrylic, metal, and wicker. Consider the existing décor in your dining room – for example; you might not want to put rustic, wooden chairs in a sleek, modern room if most of your home has a modern theme – but if your style is more eclectic, then that contrast might be just what you’re seeking.
Finally, whether you are shopping for casual or formal dining room sets, it’s essential that the chairs you select are comfortable. If you have enough space, most people will find chairs with armrests the most comfortable. Cushioned or upholstered seats and backs can also up the comfort factor. Make sure the chairs are also lightweight enough that it’s easy for your family and guests to pull them out from under the table or push them back in.
The Finishing Touches
Your table and chairs are the foundation of your dining room, but it’s the finishing touches that pull the space together. Once you’ve found the perfect furniture, it’s time to round out your décor with attractive area rugs, artistically arranged collections, great fabrics, and fashionable fixtures. Try using a colorful area rug the blends with or accentuates your decorating style. Make sure that your rug extends at least two feet beyond the sides of the table to allow ample room for the chairs. There are many ways to bring your dining room to life, from slipcovers and draperies to lampshades, artwork, and mirrors. A chandelier is a great choice; you can also use wall sconces, interior cabinet lights, picture lights, and more to create the ambiance you want.
If these formal dining room ideas inspire you to start decorating, we’re here to help. Browse our contemporary dining room sets and find the one that matches your style best.