Let your condo dining area double as an office.
Setting up a dining area in your condo can present a challenge in the limited space. Choosing furnishings that fit is only part of your condo dining room design. Other elements, such as decor and layout, will affect how spacious your condo dining area feels and how usable it is when you have guests or family assembled for meals.
Use the Wall
Traditional dining room decor places the table at the center of the room, maximizing the seating space around every side. Unless you truly need each seat, get a long, narrow table to sit against one wall. Arrange one chair at each end and two or more chairs or benches along the side opposite the wall. The chairs on the ends will help the space feel more conversational than a straight line of seats in a bar-type layout as well as allow for a bit more elbow room. Place tall artwork on the wall above the table, starting at eye level for those seated opposite the wall, which keeps the space interesting whether you're sitting at the table or standing elsewhere in the room. Add wall sconce lighting or candle holders for a more formal dining experience.
Convertible Space
Maximize your condo's dining area by turning it into a multipurpose space. A drop-leaf table will add floor space, especially if you can push the table off to one side when not in use. Bench seating will also keep the space clear during non-meal times if it is stackable. If you'd rather keep the dining room layout but still want to multipurpose the area, use storage benches for seating so you can store items within them. Use bookshelves as your table supports, and place office supplies in the benches for a dining room and office in one, or place a tabletop on closed cabinets to store toys, kitchen supplies or general use items you want to keep handy.
Light Design
Glass tables will open up the space and add a touch of class, especially when coupled with modern pendant light fixtures overhead and wall sconces for enhanced atmosphere. Choose light colored or transparent tableware and vases and place delicate flowers as centerpieces. Even without a full size formal dining room, mealtimes will feel like special occasions. Select sleek, modern-style chairs in solid colors to go with your glass table, and decorate the walls with small mirrors and metal objects that will glint in indirect light.
Tags: dining room, your condo, dining area, your condo dining, condo dining
