Contemporary Dining Rooms
By
User:AllieCashel @timeAndDate(1280949586)
I'm not going to lie, the mere idea of a traditionally formal dining room is enough to make me lose my appetite. When I imagine eating in those stiff chairs that always seem to come along with dark walls, fragile china plates, menacing portraits and awkward conversations, I can't help but dread any impending meal. For a while I assumed that antique dining rooms and uncomfortable meals were the standard, that I would be forever doomed to suffering through wilted lettuce on the plate I broke a year before. That was, of course, until I was invited to eat with a friend whose dining room was not just comfortable, but pleasant even! It was of a contemporary design: sleek, simple, affordable, comfortable, and easy to clean. Immediately, I became inspired to do away with my old ways and adopt this sleek new aesthetic. Read the following guide to contemporary dining room styles and perhaps you will too.
Color Palette
Neutral colors make up the base of the contemporary design. Not only are they warm and relaxing, but this basic color theme will allow you to keep up with changing trends and styles. A white or beige wall for example, will never go out of style (a significant plus when you consider the yellowing wallpaper you may have in your dining room now). Consider painting in a bright white, medium taupe, or soft gray, and any art you choose to hang should match the hues you've chosen for the room. Small and basic paintings or photographs are never too overwhelming. To add a little more color, though, many people like to play with brightly colored centerpieces, plates, and napkins. If you're looking to add some flair, consider using appetizing colors like bright reds, harvest oranges, or deep greens.
Contemporary Furniture
In contrast to the elaborate, grand designs of traditional dining room furniture, contemporary pieces focus on straight and clean lines. Look for chairs that include smooth, unpatterned fabric cushions and tables that have modern components of glass or stainless steel. If you're in the market for wood, look for simple dark tones with minimal grain showing. This gives the whole dining room set a very clean and putthey will take away from the sleekness of your new eating space.
Nature's Influence
Contemporary designs often incorporate nature in order to draw attention to the relaxing atmosphere. In keeping the decorations to a minimum and the colors fairly neutral, your eyes will be drawn to the beauty laying just outside your window. Consider removing curtains or shades so more light will filter into the room; this will also help complement your muted theme. Many people like to include a few plants in the design, especially as a centerpiece.
Other Decorations
You won't want to take away from the calm and chic look you have already created, but a few accents here and there can help to bring everything together. Place a bold vase in the center of your table to bring some pizazz into the room. You might also consider replacing your traditional chandelier with a smooth oversize drum shade or another more modern light fixture; remove the big paintings and replace them with small, simple pieces of art. The focus should not be on elaborate design, but on simplicity.
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