Dinner Party Heaven: Formal Dining Rooms
I love throwing dinner parties. I think that sitting around a table with friends, eating a great meal and drinking wine is one of life's great pleasures.
When it really comes down to it, as long as there are good friends involved, it doesn't matter if meal could be on a blanket on the beach or in Versailles - it'll still be fantastic. But why not make the space live up to the meal and the company? Unfortunately, fewer and fewer houses these days incorporate a formal dining area. While I love open concept homes, I think there's something to be said for a designated dining space. It gives the meal that much more importance.
So why not formalize a little? Here are some of my favorite formal dining rooms:
When it really comes down to it, as long as there are good friends involved, it doesn't matter if meal could be on a blanket on the beach or in Versailles - it'll still be fantastic. But why not make the space live up to the meal and the company? Unfortunately, fewer and fewer houses these days incorporate a formal dining area. While I love open concept homes, I think there's something to be said for a designated dining space. It gives the meal that much more importance.
So why not formalize a little? Here are some of my favorite formal dining rooms:
I think this space is great for its modernity. I love the chandeliers (and the use of three of the same light) - their fussiness offers just the right balance for the austere dining room table. Plus, the big window brightens up the whole room.
I'd never think to paint a room this gray color, but in this environment, it's absolutely perfect - formal, but not stuffy. Plus, I love the use of mismatched chairs. It's a great way to add a little pattern without overpowering.
Benches are an interesting choice for a formal dining space, but a smart one. They make the room a little more casual and inviting (think picnic), plus they make for cozy and versatile seating options. You can always squeeze one more in for dinner with a bench.
I'm on record as a wallpaper-lover - and this room is why. The paper is clean and pretty - not at all fussy - and I love the contrast with the white walls. It makes the dining room feel important.