Make your dining room a feast for the senses!

First, decide what atmosphere you want to create. Will it be formal? Informal? Contemporary?

Start with a great table. The table can help integrate the dining room with the rest of the home. If you’re going for a formal look, a table with sculptural legs, a rich wood finish and inlaid top is the perfect choice. Add an area rug beneath the table to anchor the space.

Next, define the look. A table with clean, simple lines is a great foundation for blending styles in the dining room, because it serves as a neutral base. Then you can push standard chairs aside for upholstered seats, cylinder stools or even padded benches, depending on the look you’re creating.

Be comfortable! You want guests to linger in the dining room, so make sure your seating passes the comfort test. "It’s like kicking the tires on a new car; sit in the chair and take your time," says Design Consultant to Sheely’s, Cevin Cole.

Lighting is another important consideration. "Install a dimmer switch on the light," suggests Cole. "If your fixture has shades, you can change them for a new look."

Contrast is intriguing, so mix materials and colors. Old and new mix well when a common element, such as color, unites them. "Use a rich, dark color on the walls to warm up the space and create a more intimate space for conversation," says Cole.

Finally, don’t forget the finishing touches - framed art, beveled mirrors, candlestick lamps on a buffet and plantscape in the corners all make your dining room a space to savor.

Bon appetit!

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