How to Make Dining Fun!
"Even in a formal dining room you don't want to be ponderous or gloomy. Eating is really one of your indoor sports. You play three times a day, and it's well worthwhile to make the game as pleasant as possible."
-Dorothy Draper, Decorating is Fun!
So true! The word "formal" is practically synonymous with "uncomfortable" to me. Because of this, we wind up using these "formal" rooms about three times a year. What a waste of space - something must be done!
Here are some ways to add a little informality and make dining more fun.
-Dorothy Draper, Decorating is Fun!
So true! The word "formal" is practically synonymous with "uncomfortable" to me. Because of this, we wind up using these "formal" rooms about three times a year. What a waste of space - something must be done!
Here are some ways to add a little informality and make dining more fun.
Throw out the rules. Chairs don't have to match, and art does not have to be so serious. This room is airy and elegant, and not the least bit oppressive.
Instead of a matchy-matchy dining room set, mix a bunch of styles.
Replace a few chairs with a bench.
Use a round table to promote better communication.
Repeat the circle of a round table with a round rug.
Informal floral arrangements can turn the formality down a notch.
Add a blast of red to lighten the mood.
I keep picturing Jennifer Beals finishing up a dinner here, shoving the table aside, and stomping up and down to "Maniac." Clearly, I am seriously stuck on Flashdance.
Update a traditional wood table with some sleek Panton chairs.