“The fondest memories are made when gathered around the table”
Image via Prescott Design
The dining room has undergone an evolution over the last few decades. With the rise technology, of the TV dinner culture and increasingly busy lifestyles, the separate dining room became a neglected space in the home. You know the one. The old fashioned dining room with a stand alone table in the middle of an empty room, removed from the action of the kitchen and view of the TV. The space where no one wanted to be. Growing up it almost felt like going to the naughty corner!
The idea of a separate, formal dining room, with a door leading off the hallway and a table sitting in the middle became something associated with residential design of the past. People turned to “dining areas”. Open plan rooms that were part of the kitchen and living area.
Then came the pandemic and they suddenly became very important part of the house again. They were demoted from entertainment status to multifunctional spaces, serving as home offices, homework zones, game playing and crafting surfaces, and of course, the occasional shared meal.
Images via Est Living
However as WFH became a reality, people started carving out separate office spaces within their homes. And post pandemic, the desire to connect with our friends and family created another shift. Suddenly people found value in the idea of a formal dining room. A place without distractions, where you can’t see the TV while eating. It was time to revive the lost art of mealtime.
With our families it is about the simplicity of daily interaction. A place where we can connect with each other and share our stories at the end of the day. With our friends it becomes the focal gathering point. A little getaway to sit down with the people you love and catch up on life. The place where the wine pours freely and is crowded by noisy friends in the flickering candlelight.
And the truth is, a good dining space will have people staying at your table for longer, without the need to break up conversations and move to a different room. It also offers the opportunity for everyone present to become part of the conversation and equally enjoy the company.
CREATE THE PERFECT SPACE
Images via Identite Co
Lately we have been creating dining spaces that are family friendly with unique, sculptural touches in the furnishings, lighting and accessories to personalise the space. A few practical ideas can help make your dining experience easier and more pleasurable.
The dining table is the focal point, but it is the chairs that are worth investing in. They should be comfortable to sit in for while. We want to use them on a daily basis for many years, so we want them to last. Benches and banquette seating are being introduced more and more as both space-savers and also as practical and fun options for kids.
There are two camps on the matching chairs discussion. Traditionally people want all their chairs the same and matching. For others it is all about mixing and matching the pieces in a considered and deliberate way to create a laid back feel that is full of personality. No longer are people interested in having their space looking like it has been pulled straight out of a catalog. It’s more about creating a comfortable and unique space
Image via The Local Project
Although the evolved dining area now forms an integral part of the living area as a whole, we think it is important is is given its own identity and character. A ‘room within a room’. This is done through the right furniture, lighting and accessories. It’s where good interior design and styling come in!
It is also very important to make sure the space feels cosy and welcoming. Remember to consider sound if you have an open plan layout. Consider noises from the kitchen, the extractor fan and even dishwasher or ice machine.
Installing the right lighting in your dining room will bring out the best in the design of the space. It is the icing on the dining room cake. Lighting can be made up of various layers, so whether your dining table is used for formal dinners or everyday eating, or even homework and games, the lighting should be suited to your needs, as well as making the space feeling warm and welcoming.
TABLE STYLING. MAKE IT YOUR OWN.
For everyday create a focal point on the table. It is one of the largest surfaces in most homes, so it is an opportunity for displaying a few loved pieces. Arrange a collection of vases or objects on your table. Even a simple bunch of flowers in a pretty vase makes the everyday that much sweeter.
Alongside the table, if space permits, consider bookshelves or a sideboard to display treasured artwork, books, or a self service drinks station.
Image via Est Living
When hosting, elevate your table by layering in beautiful essentials like a linen tablecloth, thoughtful place settings, napkins and dinnerware. Accent the table with fresh flowers and candles.
Image via Ellei Home
Our hope is that you are able to create a space that is unique to your home. A space where breakfast and dinner are hubs of conversation, and game nights come alive.