Naturally, I focus a lot on the kitchen including cabinetry and all the other components but one way to really personalize your heart of the home and give it a fresh look is with your dining table. More and more we are seeing open kitchens that incorporate dining rooms. If you are on a budget and are opting for stock cabinets which can be rather limited in materials and design the perfect dining table choice could be your answer. Even if your styling is more contemporary a lovely vintage dining table can make for a unique focal point.Dining tables can and, in my opinion, should lend contrast to your kitchen in some way especially if you have an open floor plan. Let me share with you a few tips on how to select the right size, shape and style for your dining table or breakfast table.
dining table for ten modern natural wood table mid century modern dining chairs with upholstery in blue white wainscot panels on wall light gray faux finishes
Size Matters
First things first, it has to fit and you'll need enough space to move around your dining table with ease. This means that if there is a wall behind a chair you'll need a minimum of 36" to move in and out comfortably. 42" clear on all sides is preferable. One seat requires about 24" in width so that will determine how many chairs you can fit. How wide the chair itself also makes a difference and, of course, armless is best if you're looking to maximize seating. Tight quarters nearly always work best with round tables and if you have a bar I suggest stools with an adjustable height option so they can double as extra dining table chairs if necessary.
round glass top dining table with natural wood base and woven rattan dining chairs natural wood console mid century modern style
The Look & Feel
Once you have the size just right you'll want to select a style that will take it from table to show stopper. The trick is in contrast. Dining tables should stand out from the surroundings but it's also lovely if there is at least one element that ties it to the room. For example, in the photo above, the table base is a different color stain and the chairs are entirely different but its the beautiful wood grain that makes it work. This room is all about the organic color palette, natural materials, and clean modern lines. All together this ensemble says Mid Century magic!
Farmhouse Charm
This modern farmhouse look is huge at the moment. Below the deep rich finish of the top contrasts and stands out but look how perfectly it works in the room. Note also how the beautiful glass globes on the light fixtures repeat the shape of the turned legs on the table and bench. The bench look goes right along with the farmhouse style and is great for maximizing seating.
Baluster turned leg dining table by James + James white legs with dark wood top matching bench seat and dining chairs white shiplap on wall glass globe pendant lights
Elegant Coastal
This elegant coastal design by Amy Tyndale features a wood stained dining table. The contrasting white chairs tie the dining area to the kitchen and trim molding. Also check out the repeating curvy X motif in the chairs, light fixtures and candle holders on the table. It's the details that come together to create one amazing design statement.
amy tyndale design coastal dining room with natural wood dining table, white dining chairs, traditional cabinets with glass doors wine coolers built-in coffee maker large white pendant lights with chrome accents wood floor
Do you have a dining table dilemma? Please do share!! Email me at Gloria@ArtfulKitchens.net and I just might feature your question and share my ideas for you right here at Artful Kitchens. Cheers!
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When Nakturnal offered to sponsor me to dish on dining rooms it was a natural fit! I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. All content and images reflect my own personal viewpoint.