Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Maximize Your Small Dining Space

Whether you've decided to transition your formal dining room into a family room or simply have a small space available for dining, there are options to consider. You can maximize your space by making savvy choices.


Instructions


1. Consider a drop-leaf table. This type of table expands easily to accommodate additional diners. Rectangular or square shapes are most easily expanded, though a half circle that can be extended to a full circle provides optimum flexibility for accommodating a large group of people at the table.


2. Use a banquette. It's ideal for squeezing a few more people around the table, especially if you often entertain friends with children. It creates a warm, relaxed spot for dining and uses space efficiently.


3. Think about a table that is only visible when you're dining. If you're really squeezed for space, you can buy a table that attaches to a wall and is propped up when in use. Similar to an old-fashioned ironing board, it collapses flat to the wall when you don't need the table.


4. Avoid glass. While aesthetically pleasing for many, glass doesn't help you when you're working with a small space. It doesn't allow for any drop leaves and it doesn't hide any other expansion options. It's inflexible and simply too open to use in a tight dining area.

Tags: small space, table that