interior design: DESIGNING A STYLISH DINING ROOM

In many homes, the dining room is often adjacent to the living room, being

increasingly used only for formal dining with guests or

on special occasions. In smaller spaces it can be adjacent to the kitchen.
No matter where it's situated, consider creating a space set aside specifically for great meals and conversation.

For your dining room you may want a different mood, creating a space that enhances great meals and lively conversation.

First, determine your special dining room table and then find the chairs that play off the material or attitude of the table.

Interesting wood table

"People are entertaining in a much more informal and creative way today," says San Francisco-based designer April Sheldon. "They are putting branches and shells on their dining tables. The traditional mahogany table just isn't working with today's lifestyle."

One dark half wall for effect.

Neutral colors are most successful for a contemporary dining room . Wall colors are very important for they create the mood. Choose colors that are generally neutral or earth tones. For contemporary wall colors, dark and bright colors can be difficult, because they don't reflect natural lighting. You can safely use bright white, soft gray or medium taupe for your walls. Perhaps accent the room with colored accessories, art work or one bright colored wall. (refer to my previous posts on colors, flooring and window treatments).
Always remember: "less is more".