Trends
The reinvention of the dining room
Over the last year, as the world changed all around us, the meaning of home changed too. Homes transformed from standard living spaces into our offices, classrooms, workout spaces, virtual hangouts and more, as we spent more and more time there. We started using our spaces differently, making each space work harder for our families’ needs. And with all of the time we were spending at home, we used some of it to make long overdue updates and upgrades. In essence, we reinvented how nearly every space in our homes was used.
One of those spaces was the dining room. While generally a more formal space in many homes, and typically reserved for holidays and other special occasions, the functionality of the dining room shifted. The space had to play double- and triple-duty as we worked from home, learned virtually and more. The dining room table converted into our desks, as parents and children worked alongside each other. We played more games and did more activities around the table. And shared even more meals together, making the occasional more ordinary.
But what does this dramatic shift in functionality mean for the traditional use of the dining room? We think it means that dining rooms will become less formal and more casual. The space will be used more frequently vs. reserved for special occasions. And that the space will be able to transform and function for whatever future needs arise.
More Glass
With this shift in functionality, we’re also seeing a shift in the design of dining rooms. Spaces are using more windows to bring more light into the room. Homeowners are opting for larger windows too and using them in combination with other windows, creating large walls of glass for an almost floor-to-ceiling look.
We’re seeing doors, alongside windows, finding their way into dining areas too, often surrounding spaces on up to three sides. This allows light to flood the space for longer periods of time throughout the day, creating brighter, more inviting spaces.
Black & White
Window interiors appear to be a mix of traditional white and more modern black. Both colors lend themselves to a shift in the rooms overall design and function. And while some homeowners are opting for more classic grille patterns, many are choosing no grilles at all.
Relaxed Interiors
The rooms themselves and furniture within, are changing too, as they become more relaxed and inviting. With more windows and doors, there’s less wall space, so traditional wallpaper treatments are being replaced with bright white and warm cream paint colors. And lighter, natural elements like washed woods, wicker, rattan, and woven materials are finding their way onto tables, chairs, flooring and lighting.
No matter where the future may take us – whether inside our homes or out – our spaces are what we make of them. So rethink, reinvent and reimagine your spaces to make your home uniquely yours. (And maybe start with the dining room!)