The heart of your home is often the place you gather for mealtime. For many families, that could be a separate dining room or eat-in kitchen. Often times this space is overlooked and outfitted with a simple table and one or two accent pieces, but a dining room can be so much more if you embrace the special time you spend around the table.

• The Table

  Let’s start with the most important feature of the room, the table. A dining room without a dining room table is, well, just a room. Make sure you choose a table that suits both your space and your needs. Opt for a table that fits comfortably within the room, meaning you’ll still have enough space to move chairs and walk around the table comfortably.

  If space is limited, a smaller, round table lets you fit the largest number of diners in the smallest amount of space. For larger spaces, a long, rectangular table with extending leaves works for both everyday use and for the holidays

• Lighting

  Lighting is a key feature of any room. Think of all the ways you use your dining room. Ample brightness is perfect for helping out with homework, while soft lighting is much better at creating an intimate dining atmosphere. The real key is layering; make sure to use a mix of lighting sources including floor lamps, wall fixtures, and windows.

  The shape of your light fixture is also important. Choose a shape that complements your dining table. For example, hang a rounded fixture above a round table and choose a linear fixture to hang above longer and rectangular tables.

• Display Your Style

  Make a style statement by displaying a favorite collection of dishes. Show off your wedding china or your grandmother’s tea set. Choose a Curio, console cabinet or two that help your displays make a statement. The right collection can add a personal and formal touch to any dining room.

• Eclectic Seating

  Mix and match your seating by using benches combined with chairs. Turn a nook into a cozy, casual dining area with banquette seating and even a wingback chair. Also consider accent chairs for the corners of the room that can be pulled up to the table for larger gatherings.

• Wine Storage

  Whether you have a large built-in storage unit or a small storage option, displaying your wine bottles gives your space a sophisticated flair. Some tables, like the Mystic Cay, offer wine storage within the dining table. Or you can opt for something more traditional like the Scrimshaw Accent Cabinet.

Don’t ignore your dining room; let it serve multiple functions within your home.