Maximizing Small Dining Rooms: Dual-Purpose Serveries and Design Tips for a Bigger Feel

Hey Design Enthusiasts!

Today, let's delve into the art of designing a small dining room space. When we made the decision to move back to Waterloo after a short hiatus to a small town about 1.5 hours West of here, we were confronted with higher home prices and less options for our “new to us” home. We opted for a smaller home in a highly desirable neighbourhood. This meant fitting all of our furniture, toys, and other things into a smaller home. As someone who loves creating functional and beautiful areas, I've found that maximizing the utility of a dining room can transform it into a versatile and inviting space for family gatherings, entertaining guests, or even serving as an extra office or play area. Let's explore how to make the most of your dining room, regardless of its size!

Maximizing Space with a Dual-Purpose Servery

One of my favorite strategies is incorporating a servery with a dual purpose. This involves using a combination of closed cabinets and open shelves to balance storage and display. Closed cabinets are perfect for hiding away office supplies if your dining room doubles as a workspace (where I am currently writing this blog post!), or storing games, puzzles, and play dough (also have that stored directly behind me haha) if it's a family play area. Open shelves, on the other hand, can beautifully showcase photos, antiques, and family heirlooms, adding a personal touch to the room.

Currently, my dining room also serves as a book storage area. By integrating bookshelves into the design, I maintain an organized and visually appealing space. Here are some tips to make your dining room feel larger and more open:

1. Hanging Drapery:

To create the illusion of a larger window and a taller ceiling, hang your drapery higher and wider than the window frame. This simple trick draws the eye upward and outward, making the room feel more spacious and airy.

2. Adding Mouldings:

Incorporating mouldings can elevate the space and give it a more polished look. Apply mouldings just below the ceiling to create a sense of height, or use wainscoting to add texture and depth to the walls. These details make the room appear taller and more sophisticated.

3. Optimizing Lighting:

Lighting plays a crucial role in making a small dining room feel bigger. Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a layered effect. A statement chandelier or pendant light can serve as a focal point, while wall sconces and table lamps add warmth and dimension. Ensure your lighting fixtures are proportionate to the space to avoid overwhelming the room.

Design Tips for a Bigger Feel

Here are some additional tips to enhance the sense of space in your dining room:

Use Light Colors: Light, neutral colors can make a room feel larger and more open. Consider a soft color palette for walls and furnishings to create a bright and airy atmosphere.

Reflective Surfaces: Mirrors and glossy surfaces can reflect light and give the illusion of more space. A strategically placed mirror can visually expand the room and add a touch of elegance.

Minimalist Furniture: Choose furniture with clean lines and a minimalist design. Avoid bulky pieces that can make the room feel cramped. Opt for a round dining table to save space and create a cozy dining experience.

Declutter and Organize: Keep the dining room clutter-free to maintain a sense of order and openness. Use decorative baskets or boxes to store items neatly out of sight.

Greenery: Adding a few plants can bring life to the space and make it feel more inviting. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive indoors and complement your decor.

Final Thoughts

Designing a small dining room space is all about creativity and smart choices. By incorporating a dual-purpose servery, using clever design tricks to enhance the sense of space, and carefully selecting furniture and decor, you can create a dining room that is both functional and beautiful. Remember, the key is to make the space work for your lifestyle while reflecting your personal style.

Happy decorating!

xoxo,