Whether you have regular family meals or love cooking for friends, the key element of any dining room is conversation. And, much like a welcoming tipple, your furnishings can have a big impact on how relaxed, confident and sociable people feel. “Dining room furnishings should encourage conversations among your guests,” says Chantal Martinelli, Interior Designer and Co-founder of Mad Atelier. “The table, chairs and lighting are the most important elements, and they need to communicate with each other — which doesn't mean they have to be of the same style or epoque. It’s about interlacing shapes, materials, textures and tones. Together, they should set the space for sharing, whether it is food or ideas.”
1. THE ROOM'S DIMENSIONS
After deciding on the vibe you want to achieve (as with any design project, creating a mood board is a sensible first step), it’s time to get your tape measure out. People often underestimate or miscalculate the dimensions of their dining room, according to Chantal Martinelli at Mad Atelier.
2. THE MATERIAL OF THE TABLE
When it comes to choosing dining room furniture, there is no rule about the order. “But I often start by picking the dining table,” she says. “For me, it is the heart (and the spine) of the room. If you have a favorite chair or table, go ahead and start with that. The pieces you choose after will complement this particular piece. Having a piece that represents yourself in your dining area is very important.”
3. WHERE THE LIGHTING WILL GO
One of the most common dining room design mistakes people make is with lighting, according to Candy Murray. “Using recessed lights or cool LED lights completely changes the space, the room will always feel cold and unwelcoming,” she says. “Layered, cozy lighting is a must. The light levels need to be warm to make the colors of the food vibrant and show everything off at its best. I’d recommend using wall lights, glowy table lamps, and candles to ensure the lighting is flattering and cozy.”
4. THE VIBE OF THE ACCESSORIES
With your furniture planned out, you can start thinking about finishing touches like candles, crockery and place settings. This stage of the design process is the one you can really have some fun with. “Table dressing and accessories are somehow poetic objects, they bring us back to memories, travels, movies... They are very personal,” says Chantal Martinelli. “I think you can start searching for accessories as soon as you have set the mood. I have never seen crockery that didn’t go well with a table. Here the most crazy and hectic combos are always welcome!”