Style a dining room (or a dining nook)

The dining room is where you host and share. Whether a dedicated room or a corner of the living room, a few rules make it warm and functional. Here's the essential.

The right table, the right size

Measure before buying: allow 60 cm of width per guest and at least 90 cm of clearance around it to move and pull chairs out. In a small space, a round or extendable table saves room and eases circulation.

The pendant, right above

This is the move that structures everything: a pendant centred on the table, about 75-85 cm above the top. It creates a warm bubble and defines the dining zone, even open to the living room. Warm light, ideally on a dimmer.

Dare a banquette to save space

Against a wall or in a corner, a banquette seats more people than chairs, tucks under the table, and adds comfort with cushions. Perfect for a dining nook in an open kitchen.

Mix the seating

All-identical chairs are safe but a bit dull. Mismatch tastefully: a bench on one side, chairs on the other, or two armchairs at the ends. Keep a unifying thread (material or colour) for harmony.

A wall anchor

A sideboard, a console or a large mirror behind the table anchors the dining zone and stores tableware. Set a few nice objects and a lamp on top: the room comes alive even when you're not eating.

A good dining room is a well-sized table, lovely light above, comfortable seating and a supporting piece. Start by centring your pendant, the rest follows.