There’s nothing like sharing a good meal with family and friends in the comfort of your own home. And since lifestyles have become so casual, the way you entertain can reflect your personal style. Check out some of the latest looks popular for dining in.
[bright linens]
Punch up your table with lively linens, such as these Moroccan-inspired Tanger linens by Le Jacquard Francais. “These invite us to indulge in Moroccan living with vibrant shades of orange and jasmine,” says DP Nguyen of Sallie Home in Ladue.
[eclectic mix]
Dining room furniture needn’t be a matched set. “It’s important to make sure the heights and loft of the seats are compatible, so seated guests are all at the same level. Then have fun combining pieces that ‘speak’ to each other and have an interesting relationship,” says designer Steven Miller.
[casual elegance]
Formal dining rooms are giving way to a more comfortable, casually elegant look. In this room, designer Joni Spear’s clients wanted something both modern and rustic. “The wool rug has varied pile resulting in a sculptural element. The table is rustic oak with the exposed grain balanced out by the modern metal trim,” she explains.
[statement tables]
A custom-made, one-of-a-kind dining table becomes the centerpiece of the room. This one, by Reclaim Renew in Kirkwood, was constructed with lumber from a barn more than 100 years old. “Although smooth to the touch, you can still see and feel the saw marks,” says creator Barry Kraft.
[seeing red]
Don’t be afraid of bold colors in the dining room. Here designer Kimberly Kowalski, Allied ASID of Savvy Surrounding Style, used Benjamin Moore’s Moroccan Red paint, offset with white tufted chairs. “Red has historically been used in dining rooms because of its inherent ability to stimulate energy and the appetite,” Kowalski says.
[dramatic lighting]
Move beyond the traditional chandelier and seek something in a different shape, size or material, like this sculptural nine-light fixture by Corbett, available at Metro Lighting. In silver leaf and polished stainless finish over hand-crafted iron, it resembles curling flames and makes a dramatic statement.
[metallic dishes]
Metallics are hot. The hammered finish of Pewter Stoneware by Juliska gives each piece a truly authentic look. Though it strongly resembles metal, the everyday ceramic dishes are microwave, oven and dishwasher safe. The collection is available locally at Christopher’s in Kirkwood.
[bench/banquette seating]
Combine regular chairs with less traditional dining room options. “A bench or banquette often works well in tight spaces or corners where you need seating against a wall,” says designer Joy Tribout, who used one in this elegant dining room she designed.