HOW TO CREATE YOUR DREAM DINING SPACE
'If you have limited space but need to integrate a dining area into your living space, the most important thing to consider is how to make it fit in with the rest of the decor,' advises interior designer Beth Dadswell, of Imperfect Interiors. 'Consider the design of the backs of the dining chairs as these may be seen whilst you are watching TV. Cover an unattractive dining table with a linen table cloth if the style of it doesn’t quite work, and style it like you would a shelf with pretty bowls, candles and flowers. ‘If you can build in a bench or picture window seat do, because it means that you can squeeze more people in around a small table.'
1. INSTALL BANQUETTE SEATING TO MAXIMIZE SPACE
Banquette seating is a brilliant space-saving option, perfect for a small kitchen. It's bench seating that has been customized for the space, and can run straight along a wall or be fitted into a nook or corner. The 'budge-up' factor allows for a relaxed feel, while practically allowing for more bums on seats in a small space. A banquette can also offer extra small kitchen storage with the addition of hidden drawers in the base.
2. ADD SEATING TO THE KITCHEN ISLAND
Banquette seating does not have to be consigned to the edges of a room. Using it on the back of a kitchen island is a clever way to maximize space (your table can be closer to the island as there's no need for pulling chairs in and out) while also creating an aesthetically appealing interior design element.
3. POSITION YOUR DINING SPACE NEXT TO A WINDOW
'Often the most successful dining nooks are positioned either adjacent to or in close proximity of a window as the natural light helps to create a bright and inviting environment,' says Clara Ewart, Head of Design at Kitesgrove. If you're short on square footage, a window seat dining space is a charming idea. But you can also create a cozy dining space in front of floor-to-ceiling windows that may lead out into the garden.
4. PUT A DINING TABLE IN PLACE OF A KITCHEN ISLAND
If you haven't got space for a kitchen island as well as a dining table, simply put the table where the island would go. It's a smart solution if you love entertaining but don't have a designated dining room. A table can double up as a dinner party and prep station. 'Consider having a dining table in the middle of the kitchen rather than an island - it can still be used for kitchen prep and is very sociable when you're cooking,' says interior designer Beth Dadswell of Imperfect Interiors.
5. PLACE A RUG UNDERNEATH THE DINING TABLE
When you're creating a dream dining space within an existing room, adding a rug under the table helps to zone the area while also offering a more sumptuous feel underfoot.
'We also like a flatweave rug; it’s a simple design option, adding texture and a feeling of comfort and warmth,' Irene adds. 'Don’t forget, a rug under the table and chairs also softens the acoustics, and makes a hard floor seem cozier.'
6. MAKE A DESIGN STATEMENT WITH LIGHTING
When it comes to dining room lighting, you should always combine form and function. Yes, essentially lighting is installed to brighten up the space and allow you to see what you're eating, but it's also an important design element that can bring coziness while also zoning the space in a small area.
7. HANG ARTWORK FOR ADDED IMPACT
When it comes to decorating a dining nook, remember to style it as you would any other room: with rugs, soft furnishings, lighting, and artwork. This helps the space feel like a designated dining room and adds design weight to the area at the same time. The artwork you choose should reflect the rest of you decor style; opt for neutral hues in a modern farmhouse kitchen, or add a splash of color in an all-white space.
8. INCORPORATE A SOFA FOR A SUMPTUOUS FEEL
Want to elevate your dining nook into a luxurious hangout? Choose an on-trend sofa in a sumptuous velvet fabric for an ultra-luxe yet easy to achieve high-style look. A curved sofa is always an elegant choice that adds tranquility and timeless style to a space.