How to Make Dining Fun!
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia. I've been writing about design online for quite a few years over at Hatch: The Design Public Blog.
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta... More »
"Even in a formal dining room you don't want to be ponderous or gloomy. Eating is really one of your indoor sports. You play three times a day, and it's well worthwhile to make the game as pleasant as possible."
-Dorothy Draper, Decorating is Fun!
So true! The word "formal" is practically synonymous with "uncomfortable" to me. Because of this, we wind up using these "formal" rooms about three times a year. What a waste of space - something must be done!
Here are some ways to add a little informality and make dining more fun.
-Dorothy Draper, Decorating is Fun!
So true! The word "formal" is practically synonymous with "uncomfortable" to me. Because of this, we wind up using these "formal" rooms about three times a year. What a waste of space - something must be done!
Here are some ways to add a little informality and make dining more fun.
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Throw out the rules. Chairs don't have to match, and art does not have to be so serious. This room is airy and elegant, and not the least bit oppressive.
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| Instead of a matchy-matchy dining room set, mix a bunch of styles. |
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Switch up boring wooden chairs with some blingy gold paint.
by BKSK Architects
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One way to mix up chairs is to buy one style in an array of colors.
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by Amy Lau Design
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| Add extra energy with unexpected art and light fixtures. |
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| Replace a few chairs with a bench. |
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Use a round table to promote better communication.
by Nicole Hollis
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Don't be afraid to go totally eclectic!
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| Repeat the circle of a round table with a round rug. |
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| Informal floral arrangements can turn the formality down a notch. |
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Add a blast of red to lighten the mood.
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I keep picturing Jennifer Beals finishing up a dinner here, shoving the table aside, and stomping up and down to "Maniac." Clearly, I am seriously stuck on Flashdance.
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Update a traditional wood table with some sleek Panton chairs.
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Use warm textures and colors.
Ideabook published on June 22, 2010.
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Thanks for sharing Becky!