Your Dining Room Is More Important Than You Think

17 March 2025

Too many people plonk a table and six chairs in between the kitchen and living room and call it their dining area. But given that mealtime is the only time many families get together in one place at the same time, are we under-valuing the dining experience?


Check out our top 5 tips to create a dining space that is inviting and functional for both everyday dining and the concessional dinner party or larger gatherings.

A dining room with a wooden table and chairs and a chandelier.

It Should Feel Like 'You'

Your dining room should be a personal reflection, seamlessly extending your home's overall design. Introduce visual interest through carefully chosen artwork or a curated display, adding personality and sparking conversation. In smaller dining areas, strategically place a large mirror to create an illusion of spaciousness and enhance the room's light. Consider the placement of a sideboard or buffet for both storage and display, further enhancing the room's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, the goal is to create a dining space that feels both welcoming and uniquely yours, reflecting your lifestyle and complementing your home's interior.

  • A dining room with a table and chairs and a painting on the wall.

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  • A collage of three pictures of a dining room , kitchen , and living room.

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  • A living room with a dining table and chairs and a television.

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Get Strategic With Colour

Colour plays a vital role in establishing the mood of your dining space, and bold choices can effectively define the dining area, particularly in open-plan layouts common in modern homes. By strategically using contrasting colors, you can draw the eye and accentuate your table settings and decorative accessories, creating a focal point. This contrast not only adds visual interest but also helps to separate the dining area from the rest of the living space, creating a distinct zone. Consider using color blocking or accent walls to achieve this delineation and enhance the overall ambiance of your dining room. Ultimately, thoughtful color choices will contribute to a more defined and aesthetically pleasing dining experience.

A dining room with a round table and chairs and a chandelier.

Give Lighting Some Consideration

Lighting is a crucial element to consider in your dining room design. An overhead fixture serves as a central focal point, while incorporating a dimmer switch allows you to adjust the light intensity and set the desired mood. Complement this with wall accent lights to highlight specific features or artwork, and the soft glow of candles for a touch of intimacy. Furthermore, exploring smart LED lighting options can unlock a range of dynamic effects, enhancing the dining experience and creating a truly inviting atmosphere. By layering different types of lighting, you can achieve the perfect ambiance for any occasion, from casual family meals to elegant dinner parties.

  • A dining room with a table and chairs and a large mirror

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  • A dining room with a wooden table and chairs with an x in the corner

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  • A man is standing next to a wooden table in a living room.

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Don't Cramp Your Own Style

Overcrowding a dining room with too many chairs or overly large furniture can significantly detract from the space's comfort and functionality. A cramped room feels less inviting and can make maneuvering difficult, hindering the overall dining experience. To avoid this, consider the daily needs of your household and opt for furniture that fits the space comfortably. Extendable tables offer a brilliant solution, allowing you to accommodate occasional dinner parties without taking up unnecessary space on a regular basis.   Similarly, chairs that fold or can be neatly tucked away are invaluable for maximising space when not in use, ensuring your dining room remains both practical and aesthetically pleasing, ready for both intimate meals and larger gatherings. 


  • A dining room with a table and chairs and a vase of flowers on the table.

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  • A dining room with a glass table and chairs

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  • A dining room with green chairs , a table and a mirror.

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Feng Shui Your Space

Feng Shui principles offer valuable guidance for creating a harmonious dining room beyond just table shape. Positioning the table away from the front door helps retain positive energy, while mirrors reflecting the table are thought to enhance abundance. Warm, inviting colors are preferred for stimulating appetite and conversation, and soft, well-balanced lighting contributes to a welcoming ambiance. Maintaining a clean and clutter-free space is essential for promoting positive energy flow and a sense of calm. By incorporating these Feng Shui practices, you can transform your dining room into a space that not only looks appealing but also nurtures well-being and positive interactions during mealtimes. This approach aims to create a dining environment that supports harmony and prosperity within the home.

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