DRH'S Dining Table Must Knows

Choosing the right dining table can be an overwhelming process, especially if you do not know exactly what you’re looking for (or not looking for). There are so many shapes and sizes of tables, which is right for you? The look of your table is also important, but making sure it fits your space and gives enough seating is even more critical.

Your table needs to allow for the number of diners you want to seat comfortably (operative word) and still leave enough room to walk around it. Look for at a minimum width of 36 inches wide so there is ample space for place settings as well as food. Generally as the table length increases, so does the width of the tabletop. Everything you need to know about sizes and shapes to consider when buying table is right here…read on.

Before you shop…

• Measure table-to-wall clearance. Measure the space around the room. To allow diners to sit down and get up easily from their seats, try to leave 42-48” between table and the walls.
• An easy way to visualize this to use chalkboard and layout a few different sizes of tables so you know what is the maximum size table your space can fit.
• Measure table-to-furniture clearance. If there is furniture in the dining space (buffet, console, etc.) beginning your 42-48” measurement from the edge of the furniture instead of the wall.

What is Your Shape?

One of the first decisions that you need to make is regarding the shape of the dining table that you wish to purchase. Believe it or not, this aspect is relatively simpler than choosing the style of the table!

Rectangular

The rectangular dining table is the most popular across the board. It is universally loved, both for its form and functionality. This option brings together the best of both worlds, as it offers the visual clean and well-defined straight lines while serving your needs flawlessly.

Round

While rectangular tables are the most popular option, round and oval dining tables are the favorites for small dining rooms. It is best to opt for a round dining table (with a pedestal) only when you need to seat six people or less. Larger round dining tables make both conversation and serving a slight inconvenience. But add stunning pendant lighting above, along with plush chairs, and these small, rounded wonders transforms into a warm and romantic setting that is simply magical.

Oval

An oval table is very similar to a rectangular shaped table, but visually it takes up less space because of the rounded corners. Oval tables are great fit for narrow or smaller size rooms but you still need to maximize seating. Most oval tables also come with leaves to extend their seating capacity.

Square

A square table is the least common option in the design world, however in small spaces a small square table is the perfect marriage of the two. Square tables look good in long, narrow rooms, as they offer proper proportion, or you can even couple them with a rug to create a space that appears like “a room within a room”. Square tables also look great in a square room, like a round table, it makes for a more intimate dining experience because it is an equal distance apart. Also it will look great mimicking the room shape around it.

What is Your Style?

Crafting that brilliant dining room is all about getting the theme and the style right. When it comes to dining tables in an open floor plan, it is best to opt for one that seems like a natural extension of the remainder of the living area. Some might want to add a chic contrast by using a rustic table in a modern space or even a minimalist metal table in a room dominated by warm wooden tones. This creates an instant focal point when combined with the right lighting.

Reclaimed wood tables are currently one of the hottest design trends, and with an increasing number of eco-consciousness consumers, they seem like a logical choice for the green at heart (and at home). Whether you are a traditionalist or a design aficionado who loves Mid-Century Modern, remember that the table you choose will set the tone for the entire dining area or possible living area if you have an open concept.

What is Your Size?

After deciding on shape and size of the table, it is time to move ahead to the all-important size. There are a few simple and standard numbers that will get you through this difficult part. The golden rule (mentioned above) is at least 42-48” of space between the table and the edge of the walls or furniture. This will give you adequate room to move about. Here are a few more standard sizing rules to keep in mind:

• Plan for 24″ for each place setting so people can comfortably eat without hitting elbows
• The maximum width of a table should be 48″ – any more space and your guests can’t pass things across the table and conversation becomes strained
• The minimum width of a table should be 36″ – any less width and you will have difficulty placing serving pieces in the middle of the table
• If space allows, base your size table on the number of persons you usually have for dinner then add two. That should accommodate a normal number of guests.

Use the below charts to help you decide the size of the table you need based on the number of diners.

The above seating guide can be used for rectangular and oval shaped tables, while the one below refers only to round tables.

Obviously you can cram more chairs in when the need arises, but on an everyday basis, we'd suggest keeping the seats to the number the table can comfortably seat.

**Space Saving Tip – Go big on the table and small on the seating. When looking to take up less room in a space, try a bench instead of chairs on all or one side of the table. Make sure you can push the bench under the table so you can stash it away when not in use.

All the Little Things

Most often, people tend to think about chairs, lighting, and maybe even the area rug after committing to a table. Try out the table along with the chairs you fancy before buying it. You do not want to put yourself in a place where you will bring home a boring chandelier or chairs that you are not really in love with, just because they go with the table you already have.

Use the below charts to see all of the different types of chair legs and back so you can choose the best style to match your table.

You will need a rug, it is the foundation of the room and helps to define the space. Use the below guide to help you pick just the right size rug for your dining space.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when shopping a light fixture for above your dining table:

• the fixture's diameter should be 1/2 to 2/3 of the width of the table.
• allow 30-34" between the surface of the table and the bottom of the fixture.

Now you have the table, chairs, rug, lighting all in place and it's time for your first dinner party so set the perfect table with this guide from Kate Spade!

Picking the right dining table is not all that hard once you are aware of exactly what you need. Always try sitting at a table before making a purchase, and do not let the slick salesman talk you into buying a piece that is bigger than what you really need. While this might sound silly, it is the biggest reason why most people come home with dining tables that seem out of place… Shop smart!

Make an appointment today to meet with one of our Design Consultants to help you pick out the best table (and chairs) for your dining space.

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Hot Trend: Ginger Jars

On and off demand for decades chinoiserie has been having an undeniable moment, most notably the iconic chinoiserie accents Ginger Jars are being used in modern ways in stylish homes across the world.

Ginger jars are a design classic, irresistibly shapely and decorative in all their blue-and-white glory. This design classic harkens back to the Ming Dynasty, when the porcelain jars were used for everything from basic provisions to urns for honoring the deceased. Lately, we've seen them popping up in all sorts of surprising places. Here's some background and design tips on these gorgeous collectibles.

Things You Need to Know About Ginger Jars:

1. Storage. Who would of thought a jar’s original purpose would be to store spices such as salt, oil, and, of course, ginger (ancient China’s most valuable spice), the beloved ginger jar long ago shed its utilitarian purpose.

2. Lasting Trend. This trend has been around since its revival in the 1600s as a European craze for the blue-and-white Chinese export pieces fueled by budding delftware industry.

3. Not Just Blue-and-White. You can find them in other hues, but the blue-and-white motif is most common, and in our opinion the most inspiring. More recently the monochromatic jars make a more modern statement while still alluding to a traditional profile.

4. Meaning Gifts. Although these jars where intended for storage they where often given as gifts for special occasions, such as weddings. Just like marriage, these jars were intended to last a lifetime.

5. Not Just Jars. You will find ginger jars in many forms. Most commonly they have been used as lamp bases, their sturdy yet attractive shape along with their decorative finishes create an optimal aesthetic.  The classic appeal of ginger jars has been inspiration for both artwork and wall-coverings. Sometimes you will find ginger jars reincarnated into potting plants, plates for eating or wall decor, decorative balls, garden stools that can be used inside or out, plus many, many, more!

Ways to Display Ginger Jars:

1. As a Pair. I can’t say enough about the power of pairs. When doubled up, two of anything draws your eyes to the item and creates an effortless sense of order that looks clean and balanced, but not overly decorated. Pushed together a duo of ginger jars create an orderly vignette; separated they can flank a lovely mirror or your favorite piece of art.

2. Topping a Pedestal. Go-to designer favorites, pedestals are often overlooked by everyone outside the “biz.” But there’s no better way to spotlight whatever sits on them. When placed on a pedestal, a gorgeous ginger jar is instantly elevated to museum like status. And if we take a cue from our favorite designers, who constantly think in contrasts (light-dark, textured-sleek), we love how its shapely silhouette complements the hard lines of the pedestal.

3.Standing Alone. Think of a ginger jar and what comes to mind is likely that oh-so classic blue-and-white chinoiserie pattern. But these vessels come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and shades. In a room full of color and pattern, a supersize, solid-color ginger jar stands out. The biggest versions have so much gravitas they can play off other stand-alone items like a single accent chair or garden stool, or two can flank a mantel or a door (even your front door) with aplomb.

4. Put to Work. In a kitchen, they’re a gorgeous step up from basic canisters, and—depending on their material and the seal of their lid—they can hold anything from dry goods to teabags.

Add unique accents in an unexpected space, such as ginger jars in the bathroom or vases as pencil caddies on your desk. Style vessels of varying sizes and shapes but the same palette (you can’t go wrong with blue and white!) in an entryway for maximum impact. Add low-slung Ming-style tables and bamboo seating to a sunny space with lots of greenery for an instant sunroom. Stash a pair of ceramic garden stools below a console table for a splash of color and always-welcome extra seating. And of course, fill an elaborately decorated chinoiserie vase with beautiful blooms to create unforgettable arrangement.

We have an amazing collection of ginger jars right here at Darby Road HOME so be sure scroll through some of these at the bottom, or even better come by and check them out.  And don't forget to make an appointment for your free in store design consultation!

Happy decorating!

-- DRH Style Team

Hot Trend: Outdoor Furniture Indoors

Now you might think this sounds totally crazy but here are a few great reasons to consider this hot new trend:

1. Kids. Kids ruin everything and outdoor furniture is virtually indestructible. With fabrics like Sunbrella, which make for easy cleanup when ice cream or juice are spilled but also resin wicker is super durable, modern, and easy maintenance. 

2. Inexpensive. Of course this is all relative to your budget but does the idea that you could get a couch, two chairs, lounger and a glass coffee table for under $1000 sound appealing? Undoubtedly. With the amount it would cost for just the traditional living room sofa, you could get a brand-spanking new set of furniture and have it look fresh out of the box. If you’re thinking ahead for next year, you can score a set on super sale at most any retailer once they start pulling out the fall displays. Even if you go very high-end, you can time it right, and get a more lavish set for up to 10 people to comfortably hang out for far less than the average cost of a living room set which usually only seats 3-4 people. 

3. Timeless. The days of just white plastic chairs by the pool are long gone, outdoor furniture now-a-days is clean and timeless. With a dark rattan or wicker finish this look could go with any aesthetic. 

4. Functionality. Unlike typical indoor furniture, which has a shelf life that may vary by how hard you use it, outdoor furniture can live for a very long time. If you find that you want to go ultra chic and invest in that leather sofa, you can - without the guilt of feeling like you you’re betraying your perfectly good existing set. Outdoor furniture can always be placed outside again. 

5. Go Green. Being green and environmentally-conscious is something that we should all consider. While there are options when it comes to traditional furnishing, materials like Polyethylene Synthetic Wicker is much more sustainable. In fact, it’s a 100% recyclable material that is non-toxic, posing no harm to mother nature! 

6. Beautiful. If done right it is beautiful! 

Outdoor furniture is a growing, exciting market. With new variations that include eco-friendly, recycled materials, designer coverings, you will certainly be able to maintain all your dignity when substituting traditional furnishings with this more affordable alternative. 

OK, so do I have you on board?! Now that you have realized the benefits of using outdoor furniture indoors, below are a just a taste of the pieces that we carry at Darby Road that can be used both outdoors and indoors!

Happy Decorating!

-- DRH Style Team

10 Tips to Freshen up your Home Office

Whether your home office is a designated space for running a business, the occasional telecommute, or simply a nook for paying bills and organizing your schedule, you deserve more than random castoff furniture stuffed into a spare corner. Why you ask? Because an office space that you want to spend time in can increase productivity, and make your office a more beautiful place to work. To begin, your work-space should feel different than your living space to help create a home/work separation. Here are 10 tips for creating a charming, practical work-space that works for you.

1. Location, location, location. You'll likely spend many hours in your home office; so don't stiff yourself on space. Also consider traffic flow and your ability to withstand distractions. Do you work best in the thick of activity, or should your office be tucked away in a quiet space? If clients will be stopping by, a private space with ample seating is a must.

2. Paint the walls a color you love. Forget "office beige": you need a color that gets your work motor humming. For some people, that's a bright, cheery color like orange or lime green. Others need a calming shade like botanical green or sea foam blue to perform.

3. Give yourself a view. Position the desk where you can stare at something more interesting than a blank wall (even if you do love the color) when you glance up from the computer. A window's natural light is ideal, but if you're in a windowless space, hang a pretty picture above the desk, or position your chair to face the door.

4. Let there be light. Here's a bright idea: make sure your office has plenty of light to cut down on eyestrain and headaches. Position the computer monitor so there's no glare from a window or overhead light, and put a small lamp on the desk for task lighting.

5. Bring the outside in. Adding a plant or fresh flowers into your home office will freshen up the space and boost your mood and even provide better oxygen flow!

6. Invest in a great chair. You spend hours parked in your office chair; a beautiful, ergonomically correct, comfortable seat is worth every dime.

7. Organization is key. Many home offices aren't swimming in square footage, so using space efficiently is imperative. Only the items you use daily should be out on your desk; keep the rest in filing drawers, baskets, and storage containers. Floating shelves are a great to keep the space feeling light but also providing a space to put to stack all of those bins and baskets.

8. Find beautiful desk accessories. Ordinary items like tape dispensers and pencil cups should be a joy to look at. Find ones you love that are also functional. Choose extras that enhance the comfy feeling of your home office, like a pretty mug for a pencil holder, trendy notepads and sticky notes, and a decorative wastebasket. Wrap your bulletin board in a gorgeous fabric, and hide utilitarian bookshelves behind curtains made from the same material. Hang inspirational prints on the walls, whether that's simply your kids' framed artwork or a classic painting.

9. Curate your bookshelf. Use your bookshelf to create beautiful vignettes, interspersing decorative objects, personal mementos, and other decor with your books.

10. Splurge on something you love. You’ll be spending a lot of time in your home office, so make it a place you love to be. Splurge on an item that boosts your work productivity and is also something you’ll cherish. If you love listening to music when working, treat yourself to a new speaker to upgrade the experience and make you excited to use. Or perhaps you want to invest in a desk, like the French Partners that is perfect for almost any space and is sure to withstand years of writing, drawing, bill paying, etc. This Furniture Classics desk is available now at Darby Road HOME!

Thank you for reading this edition of our blog. I hope you take these tips and create the work-space of your dreams!

If you have read through these tips and still do not know where to begin no worries, we are here to help! Sign up for a free in store design consultations with one of amazing designers.

Happy Decorating,

DRH Style Team