A properly designed small dining room gives the appearance of being larger than it is.
A small dining room may have its limitations for seating capacity, but when designed and decorated properly, this room can appear larger than it is. Make use of the space you have and design a room you can be proud of. Then entertain your guests with ease.
Table/Chairs
A small dining room usually requires a small table and chairs. A long, narrow table and smaller chairs or a small round table gives your dining area a larger feel. If your dining room has a lot of foot traffic but not many people sitting at the table at one time, a table with drop leaves or extensions that can be collapsed a majority of the time may work well. If your dining room opens to a larger adjacent room, extend your table into these rooms when entertaining, if necessary. Expandable coffee tables that can be raised and covered with one long tablecloth create additional seating areas if needed. Pushing your table against one wall until needed may also help create more walking area. Set only a few chairs around the table for daily use and store extras in other parts of the house. Bold fabric chairs can display a dramatic focal point in a neutral-toned room. For a cozy, kitchenette-type atmosphere, a bench table and chairs or corner table will offer more walking room with adequate seating space.
Walls
Lighter colors normally give the appearance of a larger room. Accenting one wall with darker paint or wallpaper adds some drama without making the room feel cramped. Dark walls may work in a small dining area if it will mainly be used at night with accent lighting. Light-colored wall accessories or large decorative mirrors provide a feeling of spaciousness to a small room. Built-in wall cut-outs can offer a place to display art pieces with spotlights or a candle arrangement without taking precious floor space.
Ceiling
Cathedral or vaulted ceilings, even in small dining rooms, give an illusion of a larger room. A small square dining room with cut-out ceilings and special trim and accent lighting around the perimeter of the ceiling presents a gorgeous look. Light fixtures should be translucent or tastefully small and hung high above the table or center of the room to prevent the appearance of taking over the small space.
Floor
Avoid busy patterns of carpeting or tile flooring in a small dining room. Light colors or natural wood will offer the best atmosphere; however, dark carpet or other floors in solid colors may give an elegant and rich look if the walls are light in color. A large area rug under your table will give a relaxing touch.
Other Options
Built-in shelving or small corner curio cabinets can provide a nice place to display collectibles or store extra dishes. Beautiful centerpieces set below eye level when diners are seated give a visual focus on the center of the room. Large, clear vases and bowls filled with flowers provide a more spacious appearance.
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