Dining Trends
Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of interior design and lifestyle choices, dining trends play a pivotal role in shaping our daily experiences. One of the most significant shifts in recent times has been the fusion of kitchen and dining spaces into open-plan layouts. This transformative trend not only redefines the way we cook and dine but also brings a fresh perspective to socialising and entertaining.
In this blog post, we explore the latest dining trends, with a focus on the dynamic interplay between kitchen dining and open-plan living, as well as finishes and materials.
At Cousins, you can shop the very latest trends in dining furniture. Whether formal or casual, there’s been a distinct move towards open-plan living spaces, making kitchen-style, family-friendly furniture very popular. As well as bringing more sociable corner sofas and chaises into the living space.
Read on to find out more.
Germain Dining - Sturdy and durable construction, suitable for the rigours of everyday living. Chevron inlaid patterns on the table top and industrial styling highlight the fashionable design.
The Rise of Open Plan Living
Open-plan living has gained immense popularity in contemporary architecture and interior design. Involving the removal of barriers between traditionally separated spaces by the elimination of walls between the kitchen and dining areas helps to create a seamless flow, promoting a sense of spaciousness and connectivity. This design choice not only maximises natural light but also fosters a communal atmosphere, allowing families and friends to interact effortlessly.
Multi-Functional Spaces - Beyond Cooking and Eating
Cape Dining - Available as a dining, home office and occasional furniture, helping to seamlessly blend an open living space.
In the era of space optimisation, multi-functional kitchen-dining areas have become a staple in modern homes. These spaces are designed not only for cooking and eating but also for various activities such as working, studying, and even exercising. Flexible furniture and smart storage solutions contribute to the adaptability of these spaces, accommodating diverse needs throughout the day.
The kitchen is no longer just a place for cooking. It's becoming a multifunctional space, accommodating activities such as work, socialising, and even entertainment.
For multi-functional spaces, we are pleased to offer a variety of dining tables and chairs all suitable for the rigours of everyday living. Some of our ranges are made from high-density fibre board which is heat, scratch and water resistant - making them very suitable for kitchens.
There are many other finishes available on our dining furniture, ranging from ceramic to marble and high gloss or solid oak and reclaimed. Each of these will have its advantages and disadvantages.
Ceramic tables are ideal for kitchens in particular due to being heat and acid-resistant, so hot plates can be put directly onto the tabletop, and acidic ingredients and substances can be spilt without causing a problem. Ceramic doesn't require much protection, these tabletops are more resistant to scratches and stains than natural stone, like marble.
Flexa Stone - Carefully engineered with a high-pressure finish for the ultimate practicality and rigours of everyday living. Heat, Scratch and Water Resistant.
Casual Dining
Charlotte - Features an on-trend marble effect ceramic table top in light grey with a high gloss finish. Easily maintained and wipe-cleanable so you can enjoy it for years to come.
Siena Breakfast Table from Ercol - Ideal for smaller spaces giving an opportunity to maximise space in a kitchen or living dining space.
A casual approach to dining furniture is a breakfast table. Many homes are designed with a designated breakfast area in addition to a formal dining room.
Typically this area is right off the kitchen. Due to the popularity of breakfast nooks, breakfast table sets are also very popular.
A breakfast table set is typically a smaller table that has a more casual feel than a formal dining room. Because it is usually right off the kitchen, it is the perfect spot to gather with family before you start the day.
You can always use it for a lunch spot and can also be a great spot for children to do homework and for family game nights.
Seating takes a more relaxed approach with dining furniture. Comfort is an important factor when choosing a seat for your dining table. To encourage longer dining, the seating needs to be comfortable, although you can add to the comfortability with a cushion. An upholstered dining chair or corner bench can be ideal for longer dining.
With the idea of the dining table being more of a multi-functional piece of furniture, we are pleased to offer a variety of dining chairs that are carefully engineered for the ultimate in practicality and are made from sturdy and durable construction, suitable for the rigours of everyday living suitable for everyday living.
We offer a variety of styles such as antique PU leather with practical wipe-cleanable waterproof fabric in a grey to go with more modern dining, or tan colours to go with the more industrial style.
Stanford Bench - Comfy foam padded interiors, neatly upholstered in stylish grey fabric. A generously proportioned bench corner group with a high back for additional support.
Dining benches offer a departure from traditional seating, providing flexibility and the ability to accommodate more guests which can save you from buying individual dining chairs. Just as importantly, they’re more cost-effective.
Their versatile nature allows for creative arrangements and optimal space utilisation. When not in use or not required, it can be pushed against the wall or tucked under for additional space saving.
Benches effortlessly blend casual comfort with a touch of elegance. Their simplicity complements various dining styles, from rustic farmhouses to modern chic, making them a go-to choice for those seeking a relaxed yet refined aesthetic.
Bar tables and stools emerge as the perfect companions for those seeking a balance between casual dining, entertainment, and contemporary aesthetics.
Bar tables, with their slender profile and elevated design, optimise space and effortlessly fit into various room sizes, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a balance between functionality and style.
Bar stools come in a plethora of designs, from backless options with clean lines to those with plush upholstery and intricate detailing. This diversity allows homeowners to choose stools that complement their interior style.
The versatility of bar stools lies in their adjustable heights, catering to both bar tables and kitchen islands. This adaptability ensures a comfortable and ergonomic seating experience for various purposes.
Reclaiming The Dining Room
Elbe Bar Table - Durable matt sintered stone surface, heat and scratch-resistant, suitable for kitchens and young families.
Shipton - Designed to offer a 'new traditional' look with its timeless style. For added practicality, the table features butterfly centre leaves, so it can be extended to seat up to 10 people.
Grenadine Round Table - Crafted from Mindy wood with a stunning inlaid parquet-style design. Classy design and subtle finish helps to add a versatile style to suit a wide range of interiors.
Although open-plan shows no signs of disappearing, while it has been the main aspiration of most projects for many years, there's a shift towards more defined spaces.
For many, formal dining continues for people with larger homes and standalone dining rooms.
There is a trend towards darker woods for furniture and fabric dining chairs, mainly boucle fabric. Wooden tables are more suited for a formal dining room. With a wooden table, it is best to go for hardwood, such as mahogany, walnut, maple, oak or teak. Tables made from engineered or composite woods, which include plywood and MDF, are durable and economical but are never as strong as hardwood.
Some wood tables include a practical, wipe-cleanable satin lacquered finish.
This is ideal for any accidental spillages that are prone to happen at meal times.
Grenadine Extending Table - Adds a sophisticated touch to a room. The top features a signature parquet-style design, whilst the spindle legs add elegance and style.
The importance of extending tables is still a major contender when shopping for a new dining table, as people look to accommodate a number of guests.
Most of our extending dining tables have an easy pop-up extension or an external leaf stored inside the table that can be added when required.
Extendable dining table sets make the best choice for all places that are compact and small. This is because you can extend the length and dimensions of the dining table when you need to do so. During all the other times, you can use it as a regular and smaller dining table.
Extendable dining table sets come in different shapes and sizes. The extending feature makes them aesthetically appealing as well. You can buy an extendable round dining table for your home if your dining area is a very small space.
Similarly, if your dining area is slightly bigger in size, you can always opt for an extendable dining table set in a rectangular size. An extendable dining table is available in a variety of shapes, including square and oval as well.
Constance - The beauty of the natural materials combines mango wood and marble in a distinctive contemporary design. The marble top is heat and stain-resistant making it very durable.
Bellino Dining - A glamorous, designer Italian dining table. Practical leaf extension stored internally to comfortably seat 8-10 people.
For a more relaxed approach in a dining room, consider a round or oval shaped dining table.
In general, round dining tables are smaller in size and will offer you more space with less volume compared to rectangular tables. This works particularly for smaller rooms and areas where space is precious and a smart arrangement of your interior is important.
The missing corners on a round dining table are particularly space-saving. The round shape is a better use of space, it is easier and more sociable to sit around and means less crowding, where everyone can reach their seats without disturbing each other.
Around a circular table, everyone sits at a slight angle to each other.
This provides space for interaction and a sense of openness and can often create a more intimate feel than the rectangular table.
It facilitates conversation easier as everyone has the ability to speak to everybody, not only their direct seating neighbours. Aside to this, round dining tables create a more informal feel.
There’s no head seat, which often gives a feeling of a special seat or importance.
Ercol Monza - Made from solid oak and oak veneers. Extends simply and easily with the use of a butterfly mechanism. Seats up to 10 people.
In conclusion, the evolution of dining trends is reshaping not only how we eat but also how we live. The open-plan kitchen dining experience reflects our changing values, emphasising connection, multi-functional purpose, and entertaining.
Whether you're a seasoned chef or an amateur cook, the latest trends invite you to turn your kitchen dinner into a dynamic, multifunctional space that celebrates the joy of food and shared experiences.
The formal dining room stands as a testament to the elegance of fine dining, proving that tradition and sophistication can coexist with contemporary trends such as darker woods and space-saving furniture. Whether gathered around an open kitchen island or in the grandeur of a formal setting, these trends exemplify the evolving nature of our dining experiences, offering a celebration of shared moments.
Broadway Trestle Table - A modern take on a country-style dining table, this rectangular trestle table features a grooved & planked oak top with angular hand-painted solid timber legs.
