The low down on dining rooms

Grand Rapids, Mich. (WOTV) -  

The table takes center stage in your dining room: its shape, proportions and line are the key to your look. It’s your choice to have chairs to match the table or not- the contrast can be interesting. With the cooler weather setting in, entertaining and gatherings at the table take place more often.  My husband and I often enjoy cooking dinner for friends followed by a board game of some sort- we’re kinda competitive when it comes to board games :-) Here is what you need to know about dining rooms- whether you are looking for a new table or updating your current spread.

Consider the legs: whether the style is contemporary or traditional- the location of the legs is important. The legs shouldn’t interfere with guests legs and permit chairs to be pushed up to the table. Single or double pedestal tables give or legs at the corners of a square or rectangle table will give the least interference.

Tighten joints on the table and make sure it sits squarely on the floor for sturdiness. This will insure a secure table on those rowdy game nights. Keep in mind that pedestal tables are more wobble-prone than four-legged styles.

The size of the table depends on the size of the room and how many people are normally seated at the table. Some guidelines for sizing a table:

-allow at least 26 inches between the table and wall or other furniture. Allowing 31/2 feet will give enough space for people to walk behind the table, make sure there is room for you to open the drawers and access the contents.

  -allow 24-28 inches per chair, plus 4 to 6 inches between chairs.

  -an oval table will no comfortably sit as many people as a rectangular one of the same length.

Do you have a small dining space? No problem. Small is charming. There’s no reason to let limited space cramp your dining style!

   -Keep the palette light and limited; use contrasting color as an accent in order to bring specific elements into     focus.

  -Keep the window treatments simple.

  -Use a modest chandelier; it will make the table seem larger.

  -Mirrors increase the perception of space; use them on at least two walls.

  -Choose a round table. The perimeter of the room will seem larger. Plus, you can always squeeze in an extra place setting, especially if the table has a pedestal base.

  -Select chairs with delicate lines. Consider sheer slipcovers. Chairs without arms require less space to maneuver in and out of.

Large or small, your dining room will pack punches of interest and be a great place to entertain.