5 Things to Avoid in a Stylish Dining Room

It's great if you are lucky enough to have a separate formal dining room but with the habit we all have of eating on the run it is too easy for dining rooms to get neglected. Give yours a bit of loving and don't make these dining room mistakes:-

1. Don't Make Your Dining Room Too Dark

Traditional dining rooms were painted in old houses of the Victorian era were painted in dark colors and so we often think of dining rooms as having deep red or burgundy walls but it is rare for these colors to be suitable for modern homes especially those with smaller less grandiose rooms. Paint most of your walls in neutral colors and let your accessories take central stage. Interesting art work adds color and becomes a talking point for those who visit.

2. Don't Fill Your Room with Furniture

If your dining table is too big it will make your room look poky and small. Only use the size of table that is suitable for the room. You should be able to walk around it comfortably when the chairs are in place. And don't try and squeeze in other items such as a sideboard if there is no room for them. If you have a beautiful dining table there is no need to cover it with a cloth unless the surface will be damaged by heat and moisture from the food and dishes. A contemporary table runner and place mats will work well without a cloth.

3. Don't Use Overhead Lighting

Overhead lighting is too glaring for a dinner party and can kill conversation. Use a combination of wall lights, table lamps and candles to suit the room.  Add a decorative light fitting if you have a central ceiling light but don't switch it on.

4. Don't Fill Your Room with Junk

Even if you dump things there normally clear out all extraneous items when you're having people round. If you have ever visited a dining room that had a set of golf clubs, a hamster in a cage and a bike in it then you'll know what a poor impression that gives.

5. Don't leave Your Room to Gather Dust

If your dining room is not used very frequently be sure to give it a thorough cleaning before guests come so they are not left sneezing from a dusty room. Also vacuum the carpet to make sure that you picked up any crumbs from the last dinner party you had.