THERE’S A LOT OF TALK IN THE TRADE ABOUT WHERE AND HOW WE EAT IN OUR HOMES. The thought process is that when eating out becomes less of an option, eating in becomes more of an occasion.
During the pandemic, the dining room/area became a multifunctional family space, where work, schooling and even, it has been reported, exercise took place.
Post pandemic, having the freedom once again to socialise created a surge in getting out. Meeting friends or family for lunch or dinner became a favourite pastime, but in the current financial and sustainability-aware climate, priorities have shifted and it was no surprise when, in January this year, the Wall Street Journal’s trend poll predicted a reclaiming of a dedicated dining room.
However, it’s a fact that, when it comes to our homes, while we may be interested in “trends” the majority of us don’t slavishly follow them. If you’re feeling the urge to create an area where you can host and create a special occasion, there are many ways of achieving this short of slapping up the plasterboard or building a new extension.
Lighting
If you haven’t gone down this route already, a change of lighting can bring focus and drama to your dining space. Look for something that makes a statement and centralise it over the dining table.
Tablescaping
Setting a table became a little more than just cutlery and china a few years ago. Seek out something that reflects your personality or the surrounding décor and that you’re happy to leave in place.
Broken plan/open plan
We’ve talked about this before but wanting a dedicated dining space doesn’t have to mean building walls. If you love your open plan and many of our clients do, use the placement of your furniture – the back of a sofa,or a pair of chairs (see above), a console table, a sideboard – to establish your dining zone.
Something to look at
Feature walls have long been popular, but strong colour contrasts are not the only way. Think a gallery wall, whether one piece or a collection (see above). Could a contrast wallpaper work for you, whether textural or dramatic? Or, if you’re thinking of really capturing your guests’ attention, what about installing a home bar (see pic below)?
Footnote
Finally, there’s nothing quite like a rug to pull an area together (see pic below), You’ll need to be practical and look for a fibre that can be spot cleaned, but great, washable rugs are not difficult to find.
