RL Tips: Redecorating The Dining Area

Besides general cleaning and organizing, every home needs a visual boost from time to time. Since it's the main room for entertaining guests, you can start with the dining area. No need to purchase large, expensive items like tables or chairs. Sometimes, all you need to do is change a small, everyday object. Here's how tiny details can transform your space: 

IMAGE Dairy Darilag

1. Add drama via dinnerware. 

Plates in solid, dramatic colors can add oomph to either casual lunch settings or formal dinners. Set off deep colors by placing these on silver-plated or minimalist white chargers. 

2. Tie a cushion. 

Make a quick change by tying on a washable cushion to chairs. You can also create instant upholstery: Get a half-yard of fabric, cut two-inches around the shape of cushion, tuck in ends, fasten underneath with small safety pins.

IMAGE Sam Lim

3. Make it tall. 

A play on proportion is modern and stunning. No need for fancy, expensive flowers—an impressively tall vase can transform simple sprigs from your backyard. 

4. Clear your table. 

You don't have to hide your table all the time—let a bit of it peek through. A transparent tablecloth is perfect for small homes; it doesn't look as heavy as opaque ones. Plastic is inexpensive, easy to clean and unique. 

IMAGE Michael Angelo Chua

5. Make the switch. 

Transforming the mood from contemporary to exotic can be as simple as switching lamps. Hang two or three Chinese brocade lanterns in a corner or above the table. Their unusual melon shapes and striking fabric patterns will add punch to a simple, neutral-toned room. The richly saturated colors will cast a warm glow on everyone. 

Read the original article ("Five For Flair") in the January-February 2005 issue of Real Living Magazine. Download your digital copy of Real Living on the Real Living App now! Log on to summitnewsstand.com.ph/real-living for more details.