Yes, turn the table, put up some art and get a rug that has several colors and a fine-grained pattern so you won't notice the food that gets dropped on it. It will slow the room down and make it less loud during family dinners.

some inspiration for you: [houzz=][houzz=][houzz=][houzz=][houzz=][houzz=]

have fun with it!

Any specific thoughts on a sideboard? I was thinking something along these lines.

Something w longer/shaplier legs would do well here, I think; show off the walls.

So not so blocky? I'm having problems finding something that will give me closed storage but have a lighter feel. I need closed storage for linens and stuff but also want some open shelves maybe at the bottom.

Agree with turning the table. How about adding some blue? homedecorators.com is having a rug sale and the indoor/outdoor ones work great with kids - just hose off if stained!

I noticed you had a baby booster on the chair, which means you need something that will grow with your family. Round tables worked for us, and getting chairs that you can cover with slip covers are the best. Get art for sure but what I did in our dinning room was create a learning center for the kids. It may not work for everyone but using beautiful frames to showcase a world map or a family fan calendar, things to do and homework center. I found the idea on pintrest. You have beautiful moldings below you could even turn the centers into chalk boards. If you wish for that room to stay just for grown ups keep it simple and don't over accessorize. No rug. Good luck

I like the St. Louis Park photo above, posted by Brenda. You definitely need artwork! Get a patterned rug with at least 3 colors (including some yellow, like your walls) in it. I have a floral one in my living room and it has hidden tons of kid and pet stains and it cleans up great. A friend of mine has used indoor/outdoor rugs in her dining areas (she has 4 kids and 2 big dogs). They work well, too.

This sideboard style? I think since the sideboard will be where I spend the most, I want to start there and work out to art, textiles, etc.

Or this one?

http://www.potterybarn.com/products/tivoli-console-table/?pkey=cbar&

It is a nice sideboard, but it may not work as well with the lines of your table. Personally, I would look for something with another row of drawers, and then open storage at either the top or the bottom of the piece, or maybe glass doors in part of the unit. I can't tell what color your wainscoting is, but the white sideboard might blend in to the wainscoting a little too much. It is a nice piece, though!

I like the first sideboard that you posted, but the white might blend in with your wainscoting. If you go with a darker color, it will stand out and look better.

Jinx Connie!

Actually, I messaged the etsy seller for that sideboard and it is just a sample listing. :/ So, not available anyway.

*L* rather depends on whether you decide to get that new table?

I'll probably keep the table for now.

Kitty, you can heck out our Houzz page for art ideas. Enjoy and best of luck decorating!... Raisa