Unexpected ways to make your dining room chic and gorgeous

My dining room is one of those rooms that is visible from most other rooms in my home, so it's really important to me that it's easy on the eyes.  Here are some fabulous dining rooms, big and small that I would be more than happy to have as my own...

via homeremodelnote

Loving this clean and chic dining room.  It is small, just like mine, so how genius is the floor length mirror at one end of the dining table.  I will definitely be trying that trick.

via homedesignlove

I'm a big fan of bench or settee seating at the dining table. You can put a bench on just one side or on both.

via Lonny Mag

Feeling risky? Go all out and get full bench seating! I would still have two simple mix matching chairs to put on each end to maximize the seating in this space but I love the idea.

How cool is this bench?  And those blue velvet chairs?  The chandelier is often the conversation piece in a dining room, making the chairs the focal point is a nice change of pace.

via Pinterest via La Dolce Vita

I LOVE the idea of combining a library and a dining room.  I grew up in a family that often reads and eats at the same time ( I know, I know...not always a healthy environment for books)

via Pinterest via feedly

Mixing and matching chairs

Mix and matching chairs is a great way to create a space with more personality. Your reasons for mixing and matching could be to save money (you can only afford one or two of a certain chair you love), availability (the chair is an antique and you only found 1), or visual interest (you think matching chairs are a snorefest). What ever your reasons, a few guidelines can keep your space looking chic.

Color Consistency: Paint your chairs the same color, or use the same fabric on the upholstery.  This will create a cohesive thread throughout your chair set.

via Houzz via SF Girl By Bay

Make your intentions clear:

Make it obvious you intended the mixed look.  Choosing chairs from different eras, like the traditional chairs with the ghost chairs, it a great way to mix with intent.

via Houzz

Two examples 

Finding the right combination can sometimes be tough if you can't see the big picture. A great way to start is to decide on a color palette, prints, and foundation pieces you love. For example if you are going to do a living room and office combined, you can use neutrals with an accent color (in this case, lavender), and use it in your living room as and accent and then your office chairs!
via The Lennox

Going with a different shape for the office chair but in the accent color- this swivel chair can make a statement without feeling like it doesn't fit in with the rest of the space.  Color is the connecting thread here.

via Pinterest

If you are going with a fun statement chairs, finding complimentary pieces might seem harder to pick out, but using the rest of this room's decor, an aqua desk chair might be the perfect mix match.

via Wisteria

via Houzz

You can look at Homebase's chair range for ideas to mix and match your own furniture!

Have you ever tried mixing and matching chairs?

This post is sponsored by homebase.co.uk, but all words and opinions are my own.

Not to miss house tour for mid-century modern fans

I am a big fan of mid-century modern furnishings and interiors, except when it's done in a cutesy, trendy way. I think this home is a beautiful example of mid-century modern as the furniture is restored or reupholstered with contemporary fabrics, and integrated into the home amongst contemporary accessories - lamps, artwork, textiles, etc.

Fabulous table and chairs - and what do you think of the lamp being on the table?

The chair is mid-century modern but the upholstery is now, keeping it from being cutesy.



Another great set of table and chairs. I love this room, it looks like such a peaceful place to have breakfast.

In the top left corner of this picture you'll notice a photo overlay and in the scene you can see this console. It still looks great arranged with salon-style artwork and a modern rug.




What do you think?

via Rue Magazine

Gorgeous interiors from the West

I've decided to turn a rainy, gloomy day to a sunny one by scrounging up a collection of light hearted and bright interiors. I have a feeling that even if you live in a sunny locale you'll still enjoy these. What image is your favorite - what about it makes is so?

Take note that all of these rooms are relatively clutter-free, a characteristic required for a light hearted feel

This was actually a garage the owners turned into a loft! I love the chair (which I believe is from Anthropologie), and the purple accent throw.


love the rustic chest at the foot of the bed


A salvaged bench makes a pretty, one of a kind seat.

I used to have a fireplace and had I been able to find large candles like that I would have put them in mine!

I have a soft spot for mismatched chairs

Love this photo - sadly this poster has become a bit cliche.


Big fan of open kitchen shelves - if you can keep them tidy that is!

via Sunset Magazine