Since you said you are not interested in replacing the table and chairs, then the only things that can change for an update are the accessories you have around them. The clock-on-a-pole, the table centerpiece, and the pillow seem fussy and unnecessary. What is the little chair on the right for? I'd remove all those things, and not replace them with anything. The pendant light is OK, but if you want to update, there are many pendants that are more modern.

I'd also remove the valances over the windows as also seeming extra and unnecessary. The windows are great - do they need the slatted blinds, or can the blinds be removed? I understand if you have the blinds for privacy. If that is the case perhaps replace the slatted blinds for semi-sheer fabric blinds that can be raised entirely during the day to show the sunshine and plantings outside, and the blinds should have a small stackback, and then the blinds can be lowered at night for privacy.

I think everything looks great but I understand wanting a change. RoyHobbs had some good suggestions. For a different look, you could try a larger, more colourful rug and/or a tablecloth.

Thanks for the input. Lots to consider. I was actually wondering whether I should consider painting the set. Decluttering is always a good way to go as well.

What about swapping out just the chairs? I'd paint it or have it painted but I like painted furniture.

The space could use more color, which might mean new window treatments (curtains stacked at the ends with wood shades over the windows?), a more colorful rug, and/or seat cushions. I would probably nix the clock and put a large houseplant, like fig tree or ficus, in that corner. I might also swap the light fixture for a more updated pendant or get a new shade made for it in a colorful linen fabric. You could have the table, chairs, or both painted, but I think injecting some more color and freshness into the space might avoid the need for that.

Thank you. Really good suggestions. I’m a bit surprised about the lighting comments though, since I just purchased it when I updated my island pendants. I think it doesn’t photograph very well. I was considering swapping the chairs, I like that idea - just not sure if they would be painted and if so, what color.

At age 20 years I sent my wood kitchen table & chairs to a refinisher. The wood was 'tuned up' and the shawls on the back of the chairs was removed. I suppose I could have had the wood restained to another colour. I spent as much as buying a new set. After shopping for months I couldnt find a set I liked as well or better thus I invested in the current set.

You've received some good ideas! My 1st impression was a larger rug in either rectangle or round, and also having chair seat & back cushions made (or possibly a DIY if you sew) in a color to go with new rug. These 2 changes would give you a whole new look.

I think your set can be quite timeless and wouldn’t consider changing it, nor even to paint it. It will suit a minimalist look ( removing the cluttering furniture, thinking a larger coir mat or even a larger un-patterned rug in a simple beige, cream and a simple table decor , say monochromatic vase or plate, candlestick, unobscured windows ie pull up the blinds into the pelmet ) or you can turn on a neutral country look (retaining the additional furniture pieces, seat cushions, maybe add curtain panels in a linen). Your new light fitting would work in both styles without any conflict!

Hang onto that set! It’s hard to find things of similar quality these days. I think your space is lovely and welcoming. Keep the blinds - looks like it gets bright and possibly hot and I’m sure you use them. Personally, I wouldn’t like curtains or sheets in my casual eating area. I also like your light and rug. But with a new, larger rug could bring in different colors to freshen it up how you want. You’ve got a great space and it doesn’t need much.

I woke up to read some amazing comments this morning, and I am very grateful for all of your input. I’ve posted a few more pictures from different angles, with the blinds drawn up. I completely agree that my rug under my set is too small, unfortunately, I wasn’t able to go up a size - just unavailable.

Wondering if I could get some input on the color for the kitchen rug, and wondering if the 8 foot round would work – this is a 7 foot round as it was all that was available in this pattern (which I loved!) - interesting that people are also recommending cushions, as I thought that was old-fashioned… Guess not. And I do sew, so that might be an option for me. Thanks again!

One more comment on rug - I was bringing the red from my family room into the kitchen… And the wall color is brand new Benjamin Moore, gentle cream.

Close up of rugs..

Hi M J - I love your rug. The colors are warm and it goes with the space. I like that it has a light background against your more colorful floor. I’d look for something similar- meaning a light background with some warm colors. And, yes, bigger rug and maybe a different shape.

The additional pics add so much context of your home. I think your style is lovely and it’s a home that is classic style and is a home! Would love to have a home with your warmth.

I have that same table /chair set ... only my table is octagonal instead of round. I love it and would not change it. The size is nice, and the round shape makes for easy circulation to the back door.

I agree that the pillow, the clock and the rug could go; however, that leaves you with a rather empty dining room. Things I'd consider:

- The walls and floor are very neutral ... bring in some color and texture through the window treatments (love those huge windows, by the way). The light fixture is another place you could bring in some personality.

- I'm tempted to say, Paint the chairs (and/or the table's pedestal) ... but, once painted, they become a maintenance issue that must be "kept up". They are, after all, a heavy-use item. If they're not in bad shape, I wouldn't paint them. Another option: colorful chair pads.

- You seem to have a green thumb. How about more plants? Perhaps raise them with plant stands and/or to with some hanging baskets.

More good suggestions - thanks to all!

I like it. (Including the clock.)

Would it be ridiculously impractical to layer a large square flat rug under the round one (if you want to keep the round one)? The round rug is just a little too small.

Just a small thing, I would remove the chair in the corner with the pillow and put the plant under the clock with your other plant in the corner where the chair is now.

Some ideas for painting chairs and part of the table black. The black would tie in nicely with your countertops.

Don't paint the chairs...timeless,

Not lovin' the wood valances...cuts off the tops of the windows. I hope, during the day, those mini blinds are up. It is a great space with great windows

The chandelier is too large for the table...rule of thumb is 1/2 the size of the table. But, you just purchased it...what if you took off the shade? It would lighten the look and not show as so traditional.

No extra furniture, no rug (it's too small) and I bet the table/chairs will look better on a bare floor...yours are gorgeous.

If you were to do anything major, it would be the table I would recommend changing...maybe square, no pedestal and it would give you room to add some extra seating.

I really like your dining table exactly as it is. I think it's so lovely and classic. I 100% agree that a larger rectangular rug would really help.

I agree with Jilly and prickly. You have such a lovely table and your light fixture is gorgeous! Everything looks fabulous.

My first thought was a bigger rug as well.

Thanks all!

Hello again! I’ve been working on some of the suggested changes - but the one that is most challenging now is the rug replacement. Unanimous that the current 7’ round is too small. Need some decorating insight - what pattern (s) go with my family room rug? It’s an open floor plan, so both rugs are visible jointly. I actually love my kitchen rug - but can’t get in many other sizes - and the 8x 10 is out of stock everywhere.. I think I’ve looked at 1000 rugs - literally. Just a blur now… Could really use some guidance! Thanks. FR rug is the solid red with brown, black and cream. Both rugs on Brazilian Cherry hardwood flooring.

Are you needing an 8X10 to go under the table? What other colors do you like?

Could either of these work?

Your kitchen and table / chairs are lovely!! You do not need to update your table and chairs; they are classics. Your kitchen dining area is lovely. I have a 40 year old solid oak well made table that I love. I plan to have the top refinished in the same color stain. It is a classic.

Your table and chairs are lovely; I personally would not paint either. I would, as others have suggested, remove the valances and replace with blinds or straight panels on a pretty wooden rod, remove the clock and the extra chairs. I would take advantage of the light and put two very tall live trees in substantial pots or baskets at each corner near the sliders.

Your home is inviting and liveable and gracious— you’ve done a good job furnishing it and setting a mood!

@amykath - your rug suggestions are beautiful - just trying to avoid fringe like the plague (bad Dyson karma).. I’ve measured carefully and now feel like the 8x10 is just too big. Unsure if the 7x7 square could work - yes, under the table - or need to go up to 8x8. Can I mix a traditional Oriental with my more modernist FR rug?

@Kswl - thanks for the input! In honesty, I can’t return to curtains in my kitchen. Just don’t work for me. I’ll have to think about valance situation- they hide the 2 1/2” blinds stack when pulled up. Love using greenery in decor, as gardening is a passion.

M J if an 8x10 won’t work, then I’d just keep what you have. It looks good in there. The only reason I’d change is to go bigger, but if you can’t there’s no reason to spend money on a new rug.

@Jilly - I know, I’m conflicted.. I almost don’t mind spending the money on the 7 x 7 square if I knew that it would look good for sure. I guess I’m having trouble with the perspective…

Here are two that are wool and 8X8 and on sale.

Personally, I think you could work with a traditional style next to your other rug.

Both have red in them to give a nod to your large red rug.

Those are beautiful rugs, Amy!

M J, I totally understand! If you’re ready for a change, rugs like Amy just showed would sure be pretty, too.

You could tape some square sizes off and see what you think.

This has some serious color. It is also available in 8X8 I can also see this next to your current rug.

Here is the most recent next to your rug.

I like these!

Back to the drawing board…

The last one I sent it washable on sale for 130.00 and is 8X8

The other two are 246 on sale and wool.

Two photos of the other rugs. I think the quality is much nicer!

I like both of these.. thanks!