Turning Living Room Into Dining Room: My Personal Experience

Turning Living Room Into Dining Room: My Personal Experience

As someone who loves to entertain guests, having a formal dining room has always been a dream. However, my current apartment only has a small dining area in the kitchen, which can only accommodate a few people. So, I decided to turn my living room into a dining room. In this article, I’ll share my journey and provide tips and ideas on how to turn your living room into a functional and beautiful dining area.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Measure the Space

Before you start rearranging furniture, measure the space to determine what size table and chairs would fit comfortably. You don’t want to end up with a crowded and cramped dining area.

2. Choose a Focal Point

Decide on a focal point for the dining area. This could be a chandelier, a large piece of artwork, or a statement rug. This will help tie the room together and create a cohesive look.

3. Rearrange Furniture

Move your living room furniture to create space for the dining area. Consider using a sofa or loveseat as a divider between the living and dining areas.

4. Invest in a Dining Table and Chairs

Invest in a dining table and chairs that fit the space and your personal style. You could choose a round table for a more intimate feel, or a rectangular table for larger gatherings.

5. Add Storage

If you have space, add storage for dishes, glassware, and linens. This could be a buffet, a sideboard, or even built-in shelving.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Use a rug to define the dining area and add texture.
2. Hang curtains to create privacy and soften the space.
3. Choose a light fixture that complements the room and provides enough light for dining.
4. Consider using a bench or banquette seating to maximize seating.
5. Hang artwork or mirrors to add interest and reflect light.
6. Use a bar cart or console table to create a bar area.
7. Choose a color scheme that complements the living room and ties the space together.
8. Add plants or flowers to bring life and freshness to the room.
9. Use a tablecloth or placemats to protect your dining table and add style.
10. Consider using a folding table and chairs if you have limited space.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Creates a dedicated space for dining and entertaining guests.
• Maximizes the use of space in smaller apartments or homes.
• Allows you to showcase your personal style and design aesthetic.

Cons

• May limit the use of the living room for other activities.
• Requires careful planning and measuring to ensure the space is functional and comfortable.
• May require additional furniture and storage to accommodate dining needs.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am thrilled with my decision to turn my living room into a dining room. It has allowed me to entertain more guests and create a beautiful and functional space. My suggestion would be to take your time and carefully plan the space before making any major changes. Measure the room, choose a focal point, and invest in furniture and storage that fits your needs and personal style. With a little creativity and planning, you can turn any space into a stunning dining area.

Question & Answer/Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to have a separate dining room to entertain guests?

A: Not necessarily. With careful planning and design, you can create a beautiful and functional dining area in your living room or other spaces in your home.

Q: How can I make my living room/dining room combination feel cohesive?

A: Choose a color scheme that complements both spaces, and use rugs, curtains, and artwork to tie the two areas together. Consider using furniture as a divider between the living and dining areas.

Q: Can I still use my living room for other activities if I turn it into a dining room?

A: Yes, but it may require some creative furniture arrangements and storage solutions. Consider using a sofa or loveseat as a divider between the living and dining areas, and invest in storage for extra dishes and linens.