Best Dining Room Ideas: How to Set Up Your Dining Room for Guests

Best Dining Room Ideas: How to Set Up Your Dining Room for Guests

Are you looking to transform your dining room into the perfect gathering space for friends and family? Whether you're trying to style your dining room in your first apartment or a new homeowner looking to spruce up your dining table set for guests, setting up a stylish and inviting dining room can seem daunting - but it doesn't have to be.

 

With these dining room ideas, you'll learn how to pick out the perfect furniture pieces that fit your space, style, and budget. From finding the best solid wood dining table to picking the best dining chairs, benches, and accent furniture, this guide has everything you need to create an incredible space for all your gatherings.

 

Keep reading for the best tips and tricks to create an inviting dining space that turns any meal into a special occasion.

 

What size dining table should I buy?

When it comes to picking the right size dining table, there are a few things to consider. The size of your room and how much space you have for a dining table is very important. The room should be big enough for people to be able to move around the table freely without feeling cramped.

 

For smaller spaces, try a dining table for 4. You also need to consider how many guests you are planning on hosting. Your dining or kitchen table should be big enough for all your guests to be seated around the table comfortably without crowding. If you're not sure how many guests you'll be having over, a dining table for 6 is a good place to start.

 

natural wood dining table and dining bench with black dining chairs

 

What's in style for dining tables?

Your dining table will be the centerpiece of your dining room, so it's very important to choose a dining table style that you like. Luckily, there's no shortage of style choices.

 

Modern solid wood dining tables often feature a sleek silhouette and chic, neutral finishes and are perfect for people who want to create a contemporary or minimalist look in their dining room. Solid wood farmhouse dining tables highlight the beauty of real wood and bring warmth and character to a space.

 

No matter which style you choose, your dining table will set the overall tone for the space and can transform your dining room into a space that's welcoming and stylish for any gathering.

 

round wooden dining table with white dining chairs

 

How do I find a quality dining table?

To find a high-quality dining table, you'll want to consider the dining table's materials. The best material for a dining table is solid wood. These natural wood dining tables offer superior strength and longevity when compared to tables made of other materials.

 

Good craftsmanship is also important – solid wood tops, strong joinery, and durable, high-quality finishes all contribute to a table that will stand the test of time.

 

Finally, don't forget to factor in your budget. High quality doesn't have to come with an equally high price tag. Some brands, like Plank + Beam, offer quality solid wood tables at an affordable price and are perfect for anyone who wants to set up their dining room on a budget.

 

solid wood dining room table with black dining chairs and wooden dining bench

 

Do your chairs have to match your dining table?

Your dining chairs don't have to match your table to create a stylish space. Some people prefer to purchase a dining room table set with a matching dining table and chairs because they are an easy way to create a clean, cohesive look in their dining room. Others love to mix and match their dining table and chairs to create a more unique look.

 

For example, if you have a dark wood table, try pairing it with some light natural wood chairs. Just remember to have at least one element in common with both the chairs and the rest of the room design like material, color, or style to create a cohesive look. Feel free to get creative - just make sure all the different elements look like they belong together.

 

wooden kitchen table with two solid wood dining room chairs

 

How many chairs can I fit at my dining table?

The number of dining chairs you can fit at your dining table depends on the table's size and shape. If you're looking to accommodate more guests, then larger rectangular tables are a great option because they have space for more chairs around them.

 

If you're trying to seat even more people, look for dining chairs without arms. Removing the arms makes each chair slimmer and allows you to fit an extra chair or two without guests feeling too cramped.

 

solid wood dining table for six

 

What are the advantages of a dining bench?

Adding a dining table bench to your dining room can make a big difference for large gatherings held in smaller spaces. Dining benches take up less space than individual chairs, allowing you to seat more people at your table.

 

The style of dining table benches also encourages conversation and creates a more relaxed atmosphere where everyone is included.

 

Dining benches are a trendy alternative to traditional dining chairs and are an easy way to make any dining room look modern. Functional and stylish, a dining bench is the perfect addition to create a cozy, inviting feel in the kitchen or dining room.

 

solid wood dining set with wooden dining benches

 

What else goes in a dining room?

Accent furniture like console tables, sideboards, and bar carts are the perfect finishing touch to complete your dining room. Console tables can provide subtle storage and space to display your décor.

 

Serving tables or sideboards are ideal for hosting special meals and have plenty of space to lay out your food selections, while a bar cart keeps all your drinks and drinkware close by while entertaining guests. Whatever your needs, any of these accent pieces will elevate your dining room's style.

 

black console table and solid wood dining table with dining benches

 

Creating the perfect dining room for your home doesn't need to be difficult. With the right furniture pieces you can create a space that is stylish and caters to all of your needs.

 

With the right furniture pieces, you’re set up to host incredible parties or simply enjoy family dinners. Pick the style that speaks most to you and matches your current aesthetic - there is something out there that fits both your space and budget.

Ready to transform your dining room? Shop Plank + Beam dining table sets, console tables, and more