Dedicated dining areas tend to be an optional feature in contemporary homes because modern kitchens usually have islands, which often double as dining areas. That said, there’s just no substitute for catching up with friends and family around the table over a good meal. 

An atmosphere that’s conducive to conversation is essential to any dedicated dining area. To help you set the right mood, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood has some remodeling tips. 

Round vs. Rectangular Tables

The table is the focal point of any dining area and therefore plays a large part in setting the mood. In general, round tables are a good choice for more intimate, casual dining areas while rectangular tables are better suited to formal dining areas. Family and guests can easily crowd around a round table. Rectangular tables ensure there’s a certain amount of space between seats, helping create a more formal and orderly atmosphere. 

Spacing tip: There should be a minimum of 32 inches of space around the table (44 inches if the table is located near a walkway) to allow guests to pull out their chairs comfortably. 

Lighting & Mood

The right lighting can also help create an atmosphere that’s conducive to conversation. Here are some of your lighting options: 

• Chandeliers. In general, chandeliers are more suited to traditional formal dining areas, but this doesn’t mean you can’t use them in contemporary dining spaces. Modern chandeliers can be used in traditional or contemporary spaces. Ideally, chandeliers should be hung 30 to 35 inches above the dining table. 
• Pendant lights. Thanks to their wide range of custom options, pendant lights can be used in any living space and remodeling project. (Yes, this includes bathroom remodeling projects—just make sure the pendant lights are far away from water sources.) For a more traditional atmosphere, you can have a triple-globe pendant fixture installed to gently illuminate the dining table. If you have a minimalist dining area, a pendant light with a colored drum shade contrasts nicely with a monochrome color scheme. 
• Flush-mounted lights. Flush-mounted lights are a great alternative to chandeliers in dining areas with limited space. These lights use the same bulbs as a traditional chandelier but are more compact. 
• Semi-flush mount lighting. Where flush-mounted lights are installed in the ceiling, semi-flush mount lighting extends down slightly from the ceiling. This allows it to create better ambient lighting than flush-mounted lights. 

Let’s Start a Conversation!

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood offers a wide range of professional remodeling services, including kitchen, bath and shower remodeling. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (305) 925-5999 or leave us a message online! We serve homeowners in Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Dania Beach, Davie and North Miami Beach, as well as the surrounding communities.