10th July 2009: Dining Spaces

Dining rooms are often overlooked in the rush to make their cosier neighbour, the living room, a priority decorating zone. But dining rooms should be given a focus too, because there is nothing like a beautifully inviting table and chairs surrounded by irresistible décor to make you want to entertain – or simply set and eat with the family as a unit. The best ways to dramatise a dining room is with dramatic feature walls (paint every wall for a theatrical effect). Offset with great artwork. A few key pieces – side tables, tall boys, drinks cabinets or butler's trays – will also provide space for display, creating a gallery-like space. And lastly, a gorgeous rug or runners and spectacular window furnishings, whether drapes or shutters, will add the final exclamation.