Things to Consider When Designing a Dining Room
The dining room is more than just a place to eat — it's where families gather, conversations flow and lasting memories are made. Striking the right balance between aesthetics and functionality is the key to creating a space you'll love for years to come. Whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing an existing room, this guide will walk you through everything you need to consider.
1. Start with the Right Measurements
Before choosing any furniture, measure your room carefully — length, width and ceiling height. A practical rule of thumb: leave at least 90 cm of clearance around the table so that chairs can be pulled out comfortably. Rectangular rooms pair naturally with rectangular tables, while square or compact spaces benefit from round or square options that keep circulation easy. Once you have your measurements, explore our Dali Dining Room collection to find a size and silhouette that works for your floor plan.
2. Choosing the Right Table and Chairs
The dining table is the centrepiece of the room, so choose it with intention. Consider how many people you need to seat daily, how often you host guests and whether an extendable top would add useful flexibility. If you entertain regularly, an extendable table gives you everyday compactness without sacrificing capacity when it matters. The Amber Dining Room collection is a great example of how a well-proportioned table and coordinated chairs can transform a space.
When it comes to chairs, aim for a seat height 25–30 cm below the table surface and prioritise back support for longer, more leisurely meals. Mixing chair styles — for instance, upholstered armchairs at the heads of the table and sleeker side chairs along the length — is a popular way to add visual depth. Browse the Domo Dining Room for a cohesive table-and-chair pairing in a contemporary finish.
3. Lighting Makes All the Difference
Great dining room lighting works in two layers: ambient light that fills the whole room, and a focal pendant or chandelier positioned directly above the table. The ideal hanging height for a pendant is 70–80 cm above the table surface — low enough to feel intimate, high enough not to obstruct sightlines. Supplement with wall sconces or recessed spotlights to illuminate sideboards and display cabinets. Adding a dimmer switch lets you shift the mood from bright and practical at breakfast to warm and inviting at a dinner party.
4. Colour Palette and Material Selection
Colour has a direct influence on appetite and atmosphere. Warm tones like terracotta, mustard yellow and deep green create an inviting, energetic feel, while neutral shades — cream, stone, soft grey — deliver a timeless elegance that suits almost any style. In terms of materials, wood, marble, ceramic and metal are among the most popular combinations in contemporary interior design. The Tulip Dining Room and Capella Dining Room collections showcase how different finishes can define completely different moods within the same space.
5. Storage and Functionality
A well-designed dining room goes beyond the table and chairs. A sideboard, display cabinet or serving trolley adds both visual structure and practical storage for tableware, candles, linens and serving pieces. Display cabinets are ideal for showcasing special crockery or decorative objects, while a sideboard keeps everyday items close at hand without cluttering the table. The Giza Dining Room collection demonstrates how complementary storage pieces can complete a dining space with elegance.
6. Finishing Touches: Accessories and Decor
Accessories breathe life into a dining room. A statement artwork, mirror, table runner, candleholders or a vase of fresh flowers can all lift the overall atmosphere significantly. If you're adding a rug, choose one that extends at least 60 cm beyond the table on all sides — this ensures chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out. The Giallo Dining Room collection, with its considered proportions and refined details, offers a strong starting point for layering accessories that feel curated rather than cluttered.
The most memorable dining rooms are those that reflect the personality and lifestyle of the people who use them. With the right planning, materials and furniture choices, you can create a space that is equally suited to everyday family meals and celebratory gatherings. Explore all Loda products and find the dining room that feels like home.
