Having made that statement, please know that if you are a traditional home decorator with a formal dining room that displays your fine dining furniture complete with chandelier, wainscoating and oriental rug, I think that’s great! And, I hope you find much enjoyment and satisfaction from the most traditional function of this space. For many readers, though, the formal dining area of the past may not prove to be a functional use of the space for you. And that leads to the three questions you need to ask yourself before making any decisions or purchases for your dining room decor and design project.

Consider your lifestyle before assuming that you will use this space as a dining area. For example, do you entertain and therefore need an area that can serve a group of guests? How many people currently live in your home…do you need a larger area for meals on a regular basis? Do you even like to cook??? Think about these things before planning to purchase a dining room set. Maybe you don’t need one!

Look at the function of the other rooms and spaces in your home. Is there a purpose for this space that would better serve your home and lifestyle? Some thoughts would be a home office, den/TV area, guest room, etc. Perhaps you are currently using a guest room as a home office, but would really love to have the guest room back. Well, here you go! Use the dining area, or a portion of it, for your office space. You get the idea… Perhaps a combination of the above would suit your lifestyle perfectly.

What is your budget for the purchase of furniture and overall dining room decorating? Whatever your decision as to the function of the room, be sure to do an honest evaluation of the budget. Consider the cosmetic costs, such as painting, flooring, decorative trim, built-ins and window treatments. Then, the actual furniture that will be put in the space, whether that will be a dining set of some sort, a home office setup or small conversation / TV area. Answer these three questions and you’ll be on your way to creating a dining room area that suits your lifestyle to a tee!