Kitchen & Dining Room Design Ideas

Kitchens and dining rooms go hand in hand. One room is used for the preparation of food, and the other is used for dining. These rooms are warm and comfortable places that invite family and friends to come in and stay awhile, while reflecting your personal style. When decorating these spaces, consider several design options to help you achieve a friendly atmosphere that suits your taste. Does this Spark an idea?

Rustic Charm

Characterized by natural materials and warm colors, a rustic-style kitchen or dining room sends a welcoming message. Use warm red, yellow or peach for the wall color. Add natural elements to the walls with natural wood chair rails or brick accents. Use tin tiles to cover the ceilings. Furniture made of reclaimed wood is ideal to use with this style; for example, turn an old barn door into a table top or transform old wine barrels into countertops. Accessorize these spaces with brass and terracotta bowls, wicker baskets and wrought iron candle sticks or towel holders. A brightly colored braided throw rug ties the floor into the space.

Cool Contemporary

If you like modern and sophisticated design, a contemporary kitchen or dining room is the right option for you. The style is based on a minimalist look--less is more. Choose a neutral color for the walls, such as stark white, soft gray or taupe. In the kitchen, black granite countertops work for this design style. Use a glass-top table coupled with chairs made of dark wood topped with microfiber cushions in the dining room. Cover the windows with floor-to-ceiling draperies made of crushed velvet or satin. Bring color into the space with accessories, but don't go overboard. Set the table with brightly colored cups and plates. A large, geometric print painting hung on a wall is an eye-catching feature. Fill a tall floor vase with bright-colored feathers.

Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts decorating style is comprised of ornate details. Wood, stained glass, metals and painted tiles are all used in arts and crafts style. Paint the top half of the walls a rose color or hunter green, and line the bottom half of the walls with carved wood panels. Line your backsplash with painted mosaic tiles. Bring metals into the space with stainless steel or brushed copper--sinks, light fixtures and even salt and pepper shakers are often made of these metals. Use oversized wood furniture with ornate carved details in these spaces.