Tips and advices on choosing the look and feel of your dining room furniture!

Choosing the right dining room furniture should be a fun experience.  Here are some ideas to keep in mind as you begin your search for the perfect dining room furniture.

Styles and Trends

Perhaps one of the most popular choices in table and chair heights is the pub, or counter, height.  These allow the functional purpose of a standard dining table surface while elevating it to that of a countertop or bar.  These look great in most any dining room and are comfortable alternatives to the standard table heights.  The chairs are similar, though usually wider in seating, to bar stools and also have the added comfort of chair backs.

A formal dining set is made for those grand dining areas that invite elegance and proper manners. These present a more time-honored look, with oversized buffets or china hutches to set the feel of formality.  Expect to find fluted legs, beveling and detailed carvings in a wide variety of woods, such as oak, cherry or maple.  Armed chairs with distinctive accents are right at home with a formal dining set.

For those who prefer a sleeker look, you’re most likely going to find those sharper lines within a selection of contemporary dining room furniture pieces.  Usually more affordable than traditional pieces, contemporary dining furniture is made with materials such as Formica or other synthetic materials for a glossy look and can be often found with glass table tops.  These designs usually include straight legs on the tables, straight back chairs, either in a slatted or a one piece design and any hardware, such as drawer pulls are usually brushed chrome or polished brass.

The traditional dining furniture is similar to the more formal look, but with a bit more practicality.  Most often you can find these in several woods and finishes.  Oak, cherry and walnut are tried and true favorites.  Some of the chairs that look best with the traditional sets include slat backs or high back chairs either upholstered or wood finished.

Table Tops

You have more than a few choices in your table top shapes, which you’ll find described below:

Round Table Tops – These are ideal for inviting conversation and look great centered in the dining room. Generally, four chairs fit best around these tables.

Oval Table Tops – Oval table tops compensate for their narrowed ends by extending an inch or so in the length.  These are beautifully designed and look regal with nearly any chair selection, but especially with rounded chair backs.

Square Table Tops – A square table top is perfect for a smaller dining room since it balances the square room and ensures ease of movement around the table in its entirety.  These are great for smaller families or for those who don’t often entertain.  Due to their compact designs, a darker wood is appropriate and often preferred.  The chairs usually have lower backs, but are available upholstered or with wood finishes.

Rectangle Table Tops – Perhaps the most popular selection, rectangle table tops are versatile and are easily incorporated into your dining room’s floor plan.  Higher backed chairs coordinate well with rectangle table tops, either with or without arms.

Chair Designs

Now that you have an idea of what you’re looking for, consider your chairs as they add flair and contribute to the overall look of your dining room.

Slat Back Chairs – Just as the name implies, these chair backs are designed with slats as their backs and can sometimes incorporate two, three or more slats to make up the back in its entirety.  Quite versatile, it’s not uncommon to find slat back chairs in anything from traditional dining rooms to the more modern dining rooms many prefer.

Wood – Some people prefer the easy clean up offered by a fabric-less chair.  In a dining area, this decision is often wise.  Wood chairs are designed with natural contours to ensure comfort as you converse and share your meals over a beautiful table with those you share your life with.

Upholstered – Just as there are those who like the look of wood chairs, the choice for many is an upholstered chair, either the chair in its entirety or the backs and/or seating areas covered.  This is another personal choice that you’ll want to consider.

Leather – The feel of leather will forever be synonymous with luxury and class.  Fortunately, it’s also affordable and readily available on many dining room sets, both as the seating area and/or the chair back.

Accessories

Curio Cabinets – These are an excellent way to showcase your special collections of stemware, china or other valuable pieces.  Sockets conveniently hidden away add lighting and adjustable shelves ensure even the tallest pieces have a home in your cabinet.  Most come with additional storage underneath or drawers designed for linens and silverware.

Buffets – A great addition to any dining area, buffets come in a wide range of finishes and features.  Many are designed with wine racks, cabinets with adjustable shelves and drawers; but their primary functions are to hold your prepared dishes throughout the meal.

Hutches – Just as with the wide variety of curios and buffets, hutches are available with a number of features, including mirrored backs, drawers and cabinets.  Many have several smaller drawers to keep your smaller treasures safely stored while there are those with larger and more practical drawers.  The mirrors many come with reflect your cut crystal beautifully.

Things to Remember

As you’re preparing to select your dining room furniture, keep in mind:

• • Size matters:  Ensure your selection is in line with the room size
  • Remember the Family:  If you have a large family or entertain often, consider a table that offers the removal or hiding options provided by a leaf.
  • Consider Your Personality: If you’re more laid back and really have no interest in using the proper fork from day to day, you’re most likely not going to be happy with a stately and oversized formal dining room set.