Do you love dining rooms as much as I do? In these days of rush, rush, rush, I think it’s important to have a designated space just for eating and relaxing with friends and family. A welcoming retreat set away from the hubbub of the kitchen where there’s no hurry and no stress…

If you have a separate dining room, lucky you! The sky’s the limit for your decorating options. If your space is small or part of the living room, don’t despair, there are great ideas here for you too.

WALL COLOUR. If there’s one room where you can be adventurous, it’s the dining room. Show some personality! Mauve is soft and calming; aqua livens up the conversation; rich brown is comforting. Consider wall paper. Damask, for example, is always in style. Whatever wall covering you choose, make sure it harmonizes with any attached rooms, while still making a unique statement.

MOULDING & CEILING. Add drama and elegance with crown moulding in brilliant white. Paint the ceiling non-white; something subtle that coordinates with your walls. How about soft blue with dark taupe walls? Or pale pink with gray walls? Or even try wide stripes of pale colour alternating with white on the ceiling?

OVER-THE-TABLE LIGHTING. Choose lighting that illuminates the imagination as well as the room! A chandelier is always right, but what about in black with sparkling crystals? How about something totally different – industrial lighting, or three smaller pendant lights in a row or a giant globe encasing twinkling crystals?

LUXURIES. If you have the space, nothing is more welcoming than a fireplace. Book shelves for displays and of course, books, is also a classic look. Finally, consider a rug under the table to add colour and panache.

ART. In many dining rooms, the table is centred with much of the walls left open. What a great opportunity to display statement art – go large if the space commands it. Even consider a custom mural of something you love. The dining room is also the perfect place for sculpture or large plants.

FURNITURE. The focal point of most dining rooms is the table and chairs. The variety available is astonishing. Whatever style you choose, I recommend buying quality. The chairs must be comfortable and sturdy. The table must be substantial. Some people frown on dining room sets, but look at some of the options here. They are beautiful and timeless. Don’t overlook bench seats or a distressed approach. These trestle based tables are casual, yet still showcase good taste. Whatever suits your lifestyle.

MIX & MATCH. If you prefer eclectic, mix and match furniture styles may work better for you. For example, a metal and glass table with upholstered chairs or modern chairs with metal legs paired with a country table or a gleaming mahogany table with upholstered tub chairs. Always make sure the chairs and table fit together well, the chairs should tuck under nicely and be the perfect height for dining.

UPHOLSTERY. If you have a dining set you love, a change in upholstery may be all you need. Basic cushions can be a fun DIY job. It’s a great opportunity to go bold with an animal print or a bright fun floral.

Thanksgiving is coming soon, so what better time to improve your dining room? Get started now and your family will be complimenting you on more than your turkey dinner this year!

Tags: decor, dining, Furniture, Holidays