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How to plan your dining area
You and your family probably spend a lot of time in your dining area. And not just for meals. From tables and chairs to storage, lighting and more, here are some top tips to help you get your dining area just the way you want it.
How to choose a dining table
First, how big a table should you get? Think about how many people you need to seat and how big your space is. An extendable table can be very handy, as it takes up less space when it’s not extended. What will happen at the table? Everyday and festive meals, studying, paying bills, jigsaws? Choose a material that will work for you and your family for years to come.
Shapes, styles and matching chairs
Round, square, rectangular or oval? Think about the size and shape of your room. What style do you like? We have a wide range to choose from. We even have lots of dining sets of matching tables and chairs that give you an easy way to a coordinated look.
Finding the best chairs for you
Upholstered or non-upholstered chairs? Seating is all about your style and making sure everyone is comfortable. So why not find your own mix? Washable covers keep things fresh, new ones let you update the look. A bench or stools stretch space at the table. And foldable or stackable chairs save space when not in use.
The right chairs for kids, too
Meals and activities at the table are easier for everyone when the kids can sit comfortably, too. A junior chair is perfect when they’re too big for a highchair but not big enough for a regular chair.
Frame your dining area with a rug
Why not complete your dining spot with a rug? It’ll add a sense of warmth and help dampen noise. Flatwoven rugs make moving chairs in and out a lot smoother, plus they’re easier to vacuum.
Lighting to help you find the salt and set the mood
A pendant, or two if your table is big, is a great choice. You can see everything on the table and the other people, plus you get a cosy room within a room feeling. If you can dim the bulbs, you can get the right light and atmosphere for different activities, from setting the table to romantic dinners.
Getting the storage you need
Daily meals, dinner parties, paying the bills… there are lots of different activities that happen at your dining table, so you probably have a lot to store. Closed storage, like a cabinet or a sideboard, lets you hide things that you need but don’t want to look at all the time. We’ve painted the IVAR cabinets here to match the green wall. Open storage, like a shelf, gives you an instant overview and super easy access. Plus you can display more decorative things on them if you want. And why not go for a glass-door cabinet if you want to show off your favourite sallad bowls and keep them dust-free?
Decorative touches to boost your dining area
Decorating your dining area helps make it more personal and adds to the atmosphere. A dining table makes a great place for some fresh flowers in a vase, for example. They’ll cheer up your whole room. Or why not put some art up on the wall? There are lots of possibilities!
