Whether you are lucky enough to have a room specifically allocated
to dining, or have a space incorporated into the kitchen or sitting
room, it is important that a dining area is a practical and enjoyable
place to sit, eat and socialise. In small flats, a dining area
with table is a good selling point so arrange your living or kitchen
space with this in mind.
Choosing a dining table
The main rule is to make sure that the dining table you choose
is a suitable size for the space you have - diners need to be able
to push their chairs back and move comfortably around the table
without knocking into surrounding furniture. For smaller spaces,
use a small folding table with flaps that can be fixed in place
when required so that it won't dominate the living or kitchen area
when not in use. For more generously sized rooms, choose larger
tables with removable leaves or insets. If the surface of your
table is wood us a thermal cover which will protect it from the
heat of plates and dishes.
Seating
What you sit on when you eat is again based on the space you have.
Large, more formal dining rooms, can have a set of 6 or more
chairs in a choice of styles - upholstered, traditional wooden,
farmhouse - the style is up to you and the character you want
to create. In dining areas, seating has to be more cleverly managed.
A bay window could have a built in seating area with storage
beneath. Or opt for stacking stools, or folding chairs, or benches
which can be pushed under the table when not in use.
Tableware
Whether you prefer formal or informal dining, a good set of white
china, and classic wine glasses and tumblers is very useful. With
this you can mix smarter china and glassware and tablelinen for
dinner parties, or more functional items for everyday use.
Storage
If space permits, invest in a dresser to display and store china,
and a small sideboard or cupboard for serving food. Mobile versions
are very useful, especially if the dining area is far from the
kitchen. Choose a table with drawers to house cutlery and table
linen.
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