2016, Interior Design, Lighting Trends, Progress Lighting
Trend Update: Is the formal dining room in or out?
Posted on June 2, 2016
- For the last several years, the dining room seemed to be one of the least popular areas of the home.
- Sure, a homeowner still technically needed a formal dining room as part of their house plan for re-sale value. However, the average family seemed to be only using this space during a few special occasions – such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and a handful of other holidays or times for celebration – and then ignoring it for the rest of the year.
- Additionally, with the popularity of breakfast nooks and kitchen islands, more families were happy to repurpose dining rooms to use for other activities – playrooms, home offices and libraries.
- But it seems that the dining room could be making a comeback in homes across America.
- As we continue to incorporate access to social media channels, entire television seasons and 24-hour news cycles into our daily lives, there’s an increasing desire for us to have a space where we can just use to “unplug” and connect with friends and family on an intimate level.
- Could a dining room offer a place that sparks conversation, while temporary shielding us from accessing our smart phones? We think so!
- Get your dining room ready for a comeback
- Color, materials and proportion are three things to consider when designing an engaging and comfortable dining room for your next dinner.
- – Color: Use colors that you naturally gravitate towards. Hues that make you happy, calm or energized will allow you to spend several hours enjoying different topics of discussion.
- – Materials : A confluence of materials – forged iron, polished wood, pottery and glass – can reside in harmony. The range also provides desirable contrast in texture and finish.
- Proportion: Take note of the room’s natural framework. The proportions of the space will create a frame for your furniture and accessories – and, ultimately, for your guests’ experiences.
- **Tip – A round dining table facilitates traffic flow, while encouraging intimate gatherings. A glass top can also bring a welcome sense of airiness.
- Final note: Don’t forget to have a basket handy where everyone can temporarily leave his or her cell phones for the night. Unplug from electronics and reconnect with the soul.