My Dining Room Is ...
It's the center of so much — family meals, craft projects, planning sessions ... It's where we welcome friends and where we teach our children their first lessons in taking turns and being patient. The dining room table brings people together. That's why it's often compared to a campfire or a hearth where our ancestors gathered to share food as well as stories and dreams. The dining room table is the focal point of the dining room — one of the key places where we create the bonds that make home so important.
Because the dining room is used so often for so many purposes, IKEA designers have created furniture that's flexible and versatile enough for any family's needs. And it all starts with the table. Here are some ideas for furnishing your dining room if it is ...
... the family meeting hub. Choose the table first. And the first requirement in a table is that it be large enough for everyone to sit comfortably at meals — whether you have a family of two or 10. But we know that the dining room table gets used for much more than that. Families gather around the table to plan vacations, play games, map out their budgets and for many more reasons. So consider whether your table needs a "head" spot for the leader of family gatherings. If so, consider choosing one that's rectangular. And be sure to select tables and chairs that are designed for comfort and durability.
... a small space. If room is limited in your dining room, choose furniture that makes the most of the space. You can find tables that seat two with room to spare, including bar height tables that offer extra flexibility. BJURSTA, NORDEN or LEKSVIK tables seat four to six and can be expanded as needed. The BJURSTA series also includes a round table that expands into an oval. Best of all, extra leaves store directly under the table, giving you one less thing to store in a closet.
... the main spot for entertaining guests. Entertaining is about showing hospitality to your friends, but it's about showing off your good taste, too. Cabinets and sideboards that match your table and chairs will give you a convenient and stylish way to keep the table tidy and ready for company.
... multitasking central. Can't decide what you use your dining room for the most? If your dining room table is just as likely to be covered with bills and homework as with placemats and polished silver, your dining room is probably multitasking central. So be sure to choose furnishings with storage space for the things you need to put away quickly to move from one task to the next. (Bye, bye candles and centerpieces. Hello, crayons and crepe paper.)