What would you put in this space?

last year

I have an open-concept floor plan. The "dining space" has a 54" square counter-height table used for puzzles, games, and crafts. We also have an oversized dresser for storage. Both pieces are too large for the space (and they don't go together, color-wise). I'd like to keep a counter-height table here and am debating between 42" and 48" square counter-height table with 4 upholstered chairs. I'd like to keep something on the wall, but perhaps smaller scale. The current storage unit is 18" x 58" x 44".

The space doesn't really allow for the 3' rule around the table unless we go small. I'm ok with violating that rule, but the current setting is definitely too tight.

We also have to allow for a "walkway" between this table and the family room area. I've sometimes tried to expand that "corner" of the family room by pushing furniture closer to the dining space but 40" seems to be the minimum space for a comfortable "walkway." Reducing the table size would give us a slightly bigger walkway or more room to expand the family room.

I've attached a photo of the area and my drawing of the space with dimensions. I don't think the photo really captures how cramped this space is. I"m feeling overwhelmed....what would you do?

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Patricia Colwell Consulting

last year

Well the dresser looks like adresser so maybe something longer and shallower for storgae and why do you insist on a counter height table in a small space .? Yes you need 24" for seats to move that is really the min. Maybe just the art on the wall and the storage finding a new home I store games and puzzles in a closet in the entry maybe that could work . I find many people do not like stools for seating so maybe just a regualr height table to make th space seems bigger viaually . Do you have an actual DR somewhere ..

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Comments (7)

apple_pie_order
last year
Are you okay with a chair sticking out into the pathway (opposite the stairs, at the bottom of the last photo) when the table is in use?

I recommend borrowing a card table in 34-40 inch size and trying that out. A 40:" round table would be worth trying, too.
C H thanked apple_pie_order
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C H
Original Author
last year
Apple_pie_order. Thank you! Yes, it's ok for the chair to stick out when in use, plus, it's rarely in use. I like the idea of trying out a card table.
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C H
Original Author
last year
Patricia, you are right. The dresser looks like a dresser:-) . I would love to move it into an actual bedroom. Plus, I think if the wall were empty, it would solve much of the space problem. I like that idea and have a closet nearby....it would just need to be decluttered.

The counter height works best because it adds contrast to the low profile sectional in the family room, the dogs can't reach whatever is up there, and a wheelchair bound family member can slide under it. Once upon a time I had a basic 36" x 48" table here. We have another dining area with a regular height table.
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C H
Original Author
last year
last modified: last year
Here's another view. I moved the dresser and removed the leaf to see the table at 36" x 54". I like the barstools facing the wall better than facing the stair banister. I still think the permanent solution is a square counter-height table, probably 42", but we will try this for a few days. A rug might pull it together, but it would take up too much space if large enough to go under chairs when pulled away from the table.

This is an example of the struggle with an open floor plan. This area started with a desk. Then, we used a round 42" regular-height round table. Next, we took out the table and put the dresser on the wall by itself. When we realized we needed the table, we added the 54" square table (borrowed from the basement). I'm still looking for the "perfect" solution, and the basement wants its table back.

I appreciate any suggestions for this space. Thank you!
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BeverlyFLADeziner
last year
I'm not a fan of counter height anything because it's often uncomfortable for shorter or older people. Your space would look larger with a 30" high table and sideboard.

A taller canvas over the sideboard and a series of art pieces on the staircase wall could be interesting.
C H thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
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Douglah Designs
last year
Would you be open to a lower table? It might work better in this space for more people. Perhaps also look into a lower buffet table/console to go on the wall.
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