Do you think that The Dining Room is a concept that has outlived its usefulness?

Is your dining room on life support? Maybe it’s become a catch-all room for old files, clothing headed to the thrift store, or unused athletic equipment? How could it be reclaimed for precious shared family moments–and give you a little jolt of joy, too, when you pass by? Look at some of my clients’ dining room re-do’s and get inspired!Formerly known as “formal” dining rooms, they really don’t have to be formal!  The cafe chairs and weathered finish of this dining furniture give a cheery and welcoming air in a home that’s very family-friendly.

Does traditional-meets-country-French sing to you? If you have traditional furniture, would you rather trade it out or just find ways to amp up its style, like this client of mine did?

Don’t care to be pinned down to one style? You don’t even have to choose!  Mix up rustic finishes and stone with modern lines and metallics. This dining area opens to the family room, but the arrangement and lighting give it a presence all its own.

Dining rooms can pull double duty! Curl up with a book or browse your tablet’s cooking apps in this dining room window seat. (See how the mirror, window glass, and shiny glaze on the plates bounce light around the room?)