We caught up with Audrey Williamson, Oak Furnitureland’s dining table buyer, to get her expert tips for making your dining room the ultimate spot for good food and even better conversation.

Why does your seating arrangement matter so much in a dining area?

Parquet dining table | @yellowbrickcourt

Think of your table as a stage for connection. Seating can shape the mood of a meal just as much as the food itself. Too much space between dining chairs can leave guests feeling distant. Too little, and it feels cramped. Strike the right balance, and people can lean in, share stories, and feel at ease. That’s when your table becomes a place where conversation flows as easily as the drinks.

Which table styles work best to encourage conversation?

Henley dining table | @kelly.homestyle

Round and oval tables are the unsung heroes, naturally keeping everyone included with no corners to break up the flow. But that doesn’t mean you should overlook a square or rectangular option. A square table feels intimate for smaller groups, while a rectangular table, paired with the right chair or even a bench, can still create a relaxed, open setting where conversation comes easily.

What type of seating enhances comfort and visual appeal?

Oliver dining table set | @homebyvaida

Comfort is key and the best seating feels as good as it looks. Upholstered chairs make people want to linger and keep chatting, even after the plates are cleared. Mixing styles, such as plush chairs at the ends and sleek ones along the sides, can add personality and keep the look fresh without sacrificing comfort.

What about flexibility? How do you accommodate different group sizes?

Trento dining table | @zaida_design

Your dining table should flex the way life does. Extending tables are ideal for this, cosy enough for a simple weeknight dinner, yet ready to open up effortlessly when friends or family drop by. Benches bring the same versatility: they tuck neatly out of sight, but slide into place to offer extra seating exactly when it’s needed.

Can styling help make your dining space feel more social?

Oaklee dining table

Absolutely! Styling can make your dining space feel instantly more social. Keep the centre of the table low and open with candles, small vases, or a simple runner to add charm without blocking anyone’s view. Layer in soft lighting and natural textures through your tableware, and you’ll have a space that feels warm, welcoming, and conversation-friendly.

Any additional tips to promote dining interactions?

Durham dining table set | Durham dresser

Don’t underestimate the power of a room’s flow. Make sure people can move around the table easily, no one likes feeling boxed in.

A simple trick I love is placing a rug beneath your dining set as it visually pulls the space together and encourages everyone to gather a little closer, making conversation relaxed and natural.

With the right dining table and chairs combination and a few thoughtful styling choices, your dining area can be a place where every meal feels like an occasion and every seat invites a more social side.

Ready to create your own conversation-worthy dining space? Explore our dining set builder to find the perfect pieces for your home. For more styling inspiration and behind-the-scenes ideas, follow us on Instagram and TikTok.

The post How to create conversational seating in your dining space appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

1. Relax in style: Eloise sofa

Eloise 3 seater sofa | Eloise armchair

Long weekends were made for lounging, and the Eloise 3 seater sofa is here to help you unwind in comfort. With its plush cushions, deep seats, and gently curved silhouette, Eloise adds a soft, classic charm to any living room. Style it with the Eloise armchair or simply layer on throws and warm lighting, if the bank holiday weather isn’t playing ball, for the ultimate cosy corner.

2. Sleep in comfort: Evesham bed

Evesham king-size bed | @oursmallterrace

Bring timeless elegance to your bedroom with the Evesham king-size ottoman bed. Beautifully crafted with refined fabric upholstery, its generous ottoman base offers discreet storage, while the grand frame provides both support and style. Pair with fresh linens and natural textures for a calming, heritage-inspired retreat.

3. Smart storage: Durham drawers

Durham 5-drawer chest | @fray_at_home

Add enduring style and character to your bedroom with the Durham chest of drawers. Crafted from solid oak with a warm, natural finish, it features clean lines and subtle detailing for a classic yet refined look. With five roomy drawers, it offers practical storage and brings a sense of quiet sophistication to any space.

4. Curved comfort: Leo corner sofa

Leo fabric corner sofa

Shaped for relaxation, the Leo corner sofa features gently curved lines that create a cocooning feel, perfect for settling in. With built-in recliner functionality and generous seating, it’s designed for everything from laid-back lounging to movie nights. Supportive cushions and soft upholstery make comfort effortless, while the modern silhouette adds a contemporary touch to your living space.

5. Dine in style: Maine dining set

Maine dining table set | @2flats1house

With its industrial-inspired design, the Maine dining table pairs a warm wood top with contrasting metal legs, bringing a modern yet welcoming feel to your dining space. The set includes a matching bench and our Mason dining chairs, blending comfort with contemporary style for everything from relaxed family meals to special weekend gatherings.

6. Rest elegantly: Brompton bed

Brompton king-size bed | @a_house_and_its_chows

Add a touch of modern country charm to your bedroom with the Brompton king-size bed. Crafted from solid acacia in a soft off-white finish with an ash top, it combines Shaker-inspired design with subtle contemporary details. Tongue-and-groove panelling brings character, while the sturdy frame offers lasting comfort and support, perfect for creating a calm, welcoming place to unwind.

Don’t miss your chance to transform your home this August Bank Holiday. Discover exclusive savings on quality furniture designed for comfort, character, and everyday living. Plus, enjoy peace of mind with our Oak Furnitureland Lifetime Furniture Guarantee. Shop the sale now, while stocks last!

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Hosting a brunch, lunch, or a simple afternoon tea? A beautifully decorated table sets the tone for a memorable gathering, so here are some easy and stylish ways to create a festive Easter table with minimal effort.

Start with a beautiful base

Oaklee dining set | Oliver sideboard | Yazmin rug

Your dining table is the perfect canvas for your Easter setup. A neutral table like the Oaklee dining table, makes it easier to layer seasonal elements with style. Begin with a soft linen or a pastel table runner to add a delicate touch of colour and texture.

Whimsical napkin folding

Oaklee dining table | Oliver sideboard | Yazmin rug

For a playful yet sophisticated touch, fold napkins into simple knots to cradle eggs. This effortless technique adds a crafted yet relaxed approach to your table setting, making each place setting feel special. Opt for fabric napkins in soft shades like blush, mint, or sky blue to enhance the overall aesthetic.

Pastel and floral accents

Oaklee dining set | Oliver sideboard | Yazmin rug

Nothing says spring quite like fresh flowers. Create a centrepiece using seasonal blooms such as tulips, daffodils, or baby’s breath in pastel shades. Arrange them in vintage jugs, glass jars, or a low-profile vase to keep the conversation flowing across the table.

Add a glow with candles

Oaklee dining set | Yazmin rug

Candles bring warmth and a magical ambience to any tablescape. Choose colourful candles in subtle pastel shades to complement your table’s colour scheme. Arrange them at varying heights to add dimension and a touch of elegance.

Coordinated glassware and tableware

Oaklee dining set | Oliver sideboard | Yazmin rug

The right glassware and tableware can effortlessly elevate your Easter setup. Select delicate, tinted glassware that catches and reflects sunlight, adding sparkle and refinement. Mix and match pastel plates with gold or silver cutlery for an extra touch of elegance.

Seasonal treats as decor

Oaklee dining table

Edible decor is a fun way to make your dining table both beautiful and delicious! Arrange pastel-coloured chocolates, Easter biscuits, or mini nests with speckled eggs on small dessert plates. A cake stand with hot cross buns or an Easter cake can serve as both a decorative and functional centrepiece.

With these simple ideas, you can create a stunning setup that captures the beauty of spring and the joy of the season. Gather your loved ones and make this Easter celebration one to remember!

For more Easter styling ideas, check out our ‘How to decorate your home for Easter’ blog, and don’t forget to share your own Easter decor with us on Instagram, tagging #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome.

The post Easy Easter table decor ideas appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Sure, you might not be indulging in a Michelin-star meal or jetting off for a weekend escape, but with a little creativity and the right mindset, you can create an evening that celebrates what truly matters: the love you share with your partner.

Set the Scene

Dorset dining table | @acton.life.and.home

Valentine’s Day doesn’t just start at dinner – it’s a vibe you can create throughout the day. Add some romance to your space with warm, inviting touches: scented candles, wax melts, or a diffuser in your favourite fragrance. A vase of fresh red roses or pink tulips on your coffee table, console table or sideboard instantly sets the tone. Even a few pink or red accents around your home can bring a subtle, sophisticated romance.

Evie sofa | @barn_owls_and_butterflies

Breakfast in bed

@livingwith_laura_j

Start the day by spoiling your partner with a proper breakfast in bed. Forget the burnt toast cliché and go all out – smashed avocado on sourdough, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, or indulgent French toast with bacon and syrup. Oh, and don’t shy away from a morning mimosa or Bloody Mary as it’s a celebration, after all!

Cook a meal together

Parquet dining table | @26our_mini_mansion

A candlelit dinner isn’t off the table just because you’re staying in. Cooking something you both love can be just as fun and even more fulfilling. Try making fresh pasta from scratch, or visit the fishmonger for fresh seafood. It’s all about teamwork, laughter, and creating something delicious together.

Order in your favourite meal

Dorset dining table | @zetaantoniou

If cooking feels more like a chore than a treat, why not order from your favourite restaurant? Support local businesses and enjoy the luxury of being served — without the chaos of crowded tables or overpriced wine. Set the dining table beautifully, pop open a bottle of something special, and enjoy the best of dining out from the comfort of home.

Have a living room picnic

Newton coffee table | @livingwith_sienna

Who says picnics are just for parks? Spread out a rug or blanket in your living room, pile on some cushions, and create a cosy indoor picnic on your coffee table. Add fairy lights, soft throws, and your favourite flowers for a touch of extra magic.

Host a tasting session

Parquet small bookcase | @casaoldcorn

Love wine, gin, or craft beer? Bring the tasting room to you! Many distilleries, wineries, and breweries offer at-home tasting kits, often with virtual expert-led sessions. It’s a unique and interactive way to celebrate, and you might just discover your new top tipple!

Learn a new skill

Credit: Anastasia Shuraeva

Pottery, sushi-making, ballroom dancing — these are just some of the classes now available online. Get stuck into something fun and new, and who knows? You might just find a hobby you’ll both love long after Valentine’s Day is over.

Get creative with arts and crafts

Credit: RDNE Stock project

Channel your inner Picasso with a painting session. Grab some easels, paints, and brushes, and try painting portraits of each other. Whether the results are museum-worthy or hilariously bad, it’s bound to be a memory you’ll both treasure.

Indulge in a home spa

St Ives sideboard | @our_surreyhome

Set the mood with scented candles, relaxing bath oils, and indulgent face masks: pamper your partner with a budget-friendly spa day at home. Unwind with a soak in a steaming tub filled with fragrant bath bombs. Elevate the experience with thoughtful extras: a homemade afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, alongside chilled bubbly or fruit-infused water. Finish with chocolate-dipped strawberries and wrap yourselves in fluffy, freshly laundered towels for that final touch of spa-like bliss.

Play games together

Credit: SHVETS production

Whether you’re board game fanatics, trivia buffs, or just love a bit of Lego, games are a brilliant way to bond through some playful competition, and you’ve got an evening of laughs sorted. Just remember — no sore losers!

Relive your favourite memories

Romsey sideboard | @ourderbyshiredetached

Dig out the photo albums, wedding snaps and videos, or digital photo folders and take a trip down memory lane. You could even pick a few favourites to print and frame, or start a scrapbook of your journey together.

Take time to stargaze

Credit: Özgür Sürmeli

Escape the chaos of everyday life with a quiet moment outdoors. Wrap up warm, step into the garden, and enjoy the stars together. Add your ultimate slow song for a spontaneous dance or cosy up around a fire pit, toast marshmallows and dine out on s’mores under the night sky.

A virtual Valentine’s date

For couples who can’t be together in person, there are still ways to celebrate your relationship. Use video call backgrounds to transport yourselves to Paris or a tropical beach and theme your evening around the location. You can also take online classes, cook together via video call, or even paint each other’s portraits. It’s all about connection — even from afar.

From simple gestures to elaborate setups, what makes Valentine’s Day special is the thought behind it. No matter which idea you choose, your partner will appreciate the effort you’ve made to celebrate your love.

We’d love to see your Valentine’s creations! Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram using #OakFurnitureland to show off your romantic setups.

The post Romantic at-home date ideas for Valentine’s Day appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Read on to discover our different storage options and ideas for styling them, whatever your taste and design preferences.

Go stylish with sideboard storage

Oliver sideboard | @littleedwardian

Undoubtedly, sideboards have earned the top spot as one of the most versatile storage pieces, for any home. They offer fantastic space-saving functionality for living rooms, dining rooms, or even hallways, as a great first impression of your home.

They are a handy storage solution while also providing ample space on top where you can display your most treasured trinkets and decorative objects. Why not brighten up an otherwise unused space with a beautiful new sideboard?

Parquet sideboard | @millinerbellway_

Sideboards are also an excellent choice for bedrooms, providing ample storage for clothes, accessories, toiletries, and make-up. Pair them up with pieces from the same range for a beautifully coordinated and serene sleep sanctuary.

Compact your clutter with a console table

Maine console table

Often referred to as a ‘hallway table’, console tables have traditionally found their home in entranceways. However, their versatility extends far beyond greeting guests at the door. While they can be the perfect, stylish solution to storing keys and placing envelopes, they can also be used to lift your dining or living room style.

Don’t quite have enough space for a large sideboard in your dining room, but could still do with some handy drawers and a space to showcase your favourite mirror or wall art? A console table provides the perfect compact storage solution for your belongings and a great stylish accent for your home.

Tidy up with a tallboy

Brompton wardrobe | Brompton tallboy | @a_house_and_its_chows

It can be difficult to find the right storage especially when space is a premium. This is where pieces such as tallboys come in. Their slender silhouette and deep drawers save precious floor space while giving you heaps of storage.

Pop it in a small corner of a bedroom, or tuck it away on a landing or in a dining room to store anything from socks and linen or even cutlery and napkins.

Arrange your belongings in a blanket box

Copenhagen blanket box

A blanket box used to be a staple for any bedroom, sitting at the foot of the bed as a beautiful home for linens, blankets and your out-of-season wardrobe. However, that’s not their only function. They can also serve as a toy box in a child’s room or playroom, a coffee table in your living room, storage for boots in your utility room, or even a bench in your hallway.

Opt for a storage footstool

Dalby sofa | Dalby storage footstool | @mo_morshuis

From toy tidy to cushion collector, turn your footstool into a practical addition to your living room by choosing one with in-built storage. Go for a coordinating piece from the same range as your sofa for a cohesive set-up, with the option to use your storage footstool as a perch for tired legs or an additional coffee table.

Streamline your bedroom

Bloomsbury ottoman bed | @layered.home

Choose one of our storage beds to maximise this often-under-utilised space in your bedroom. Our ottomans offer easy-to-access storage via a simple gas-lift mechanism.

Now you’re ready to revolutionise your storage! Our Oak Furnitureland ranges breathe style, versatility, and functionality, ensuring you have both the look and the storage you need for your home.

How are you currently using storage pieces in your home? Share it with us by tagging #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome on Instagram.

The post Stylish storage solutions for every home appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

”With the cool and contemporary marble surfaces paired with the rich texture and warm woods, our new Elba and Islington ranges add a touch of understated elegance to your home.”
Elena Mellowes, Head of Buying at Oak Furnitureland

When it comes to styling these unique pieces there’s plenty to play with. Here are some lifestyle-inspired tips to help you make the most of your modern furniture.

Colour cleverly

Islington coffee table | Clouds metallic rug

Let the materials themselves inspire your colour palette. Take cues from the subtle grey tones of mottled marble as seen in this Islington marble top coffee table or the warm array of brown hues in acacia pieces and mango wood furniture.

Islington side table | Islington large TV unit

Be inspired by the natural surroundings these materials would have once found themselves within, such as calming greens like khaki or sage and earthy neutral shades to harmonise.

Elba Round Side Table

For those looking to add interest, inject pops of retro-inspired colours like teal, mustard, or orange in your accompanying furniture and accessories for that extra flair.

Embrace texture

Islington 1 drawer bedside table | Islington 5 drawer tallboy | Clouds metallic rug

Balance the inherent hardness of wood, metal, and marble by including soft, tactile textiles into your decor scheme. Opt for natural fabrics such as leather, brushed cotton, or linen to add warmth and comfort to your space. Layer textured rugs to soften the look of the room while maintaining its chic appeal.

For bedroom styling, an upholstered bed like this winged headboard design from the Islington collection is the perfect way to bring softness in contrast to sleek marble top bedside tables.

Time to shine

Islington 5 drawer chest | Islington double bed with winged headboard

To enhance mixed material furniture even further, throw in some hints of metallic through your lighting and home accessories to really elevate the look. Whether that’s subtle accents like a desktop tray or vase to bigger pieces of lighting and hardware. This approach will echo the metallic details in the furniture as well as reflect the beautiful materials they are laid upon or next to.

Elba storage coffee table | Elba large TV unit

Brass works especially well with these warmer wood tones or look towards glass accessories as another way to keep things light and reflective.

Natural connection

Islington side table | Islington coffee table | Islington large TV unit

Maximise the natural beauty of mango wood furniture, acacia pieces and marble design by integrating elements of nature into your home. Position your furniture in the space intuitively to make the most of natural light from nearby windows and provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Elba large sideboard | Clouds metallic rug

Additionally, consider scattering houseplants to bring life and vitality inside, further complementing the organic feel of your furniture.

Reflective beauty

Islington dressing table | Isla velvet dining chair | Evelyn mirror in gold

Strategically place mirrors throughout your space to amplify natural light and create the illusion of space. Mirrors not only help bounce light around the room but also accentuate the layers of colour and texture in your mixed material furniture, adding depth and dimension to your decor.

Artistic harmony

Islington 6 drawer chest | Hamilton chair | Clouds metallic rug

Art can add personality and visual interest to your space, tying the room together in a cohesive and harmonious way so let the style of your furniture inspire your choices. Whether it’s art deco or mid-century modern influenced, select pieces to echo this design, such as geometric prints that mimic the lines of your furniture or abstract pieces that complement your colour palette.

Islington dining table with 6 chairs | Islington large sideboard

Alternatively, turn your gaze towards artwork with a more free-form approach to contrast with the harder lines of the wood, marble and metal materials for a more relaxed look.

Elba large TV unit

Follow the curve

Islington desk | Clouds metallic rug

Introduce rounded silhouettes into your furniture and accessory selection to complement the curves of your mixed material pieces. Whether it’s a curved sofa, a comfy desk chair or decorative objects with soft, organic shapes, embracing curves can create a sense of fluidity and movement in your space, enhancing its overall visual appeal.

By following these styling tips, you can transform your home with mixed material furniture, creating a space that’s both stylish and inviting. Head to the Oak Furnitureland website to browse the full ranges and be sure to follow us on Instagram and tag us at #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome in your posts to show off your updated spaces!

The post How to style your home with mixed material furniture appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

To make things easier, we’ve put together a list of things to consider before making any purchases, to ensure that your dining area has the style, and functionality that it deserves…

Your dining room shape and measurements

Brompton larger dresser | Brompton dining set | Brompton nest of tables

Whether you’re making new additions or replacements to your existing dining room, or designing from scratch, you’ll first need to measure the room itself.

Not all dining rooms come in an easy rectangle. It’s recommended to map the room out to scale on paper, including walls, walkways, and other furniture so that you can visualise how best to style your furniture. Alternatively, using masking tape, or cardboard if the room is carpeted, is a great way to work out the placement of your dining room pieces, and really experience the feel of how they will sit within the room.

When drawing out the room, don’t simply measure the size of the structure and furniture, think about the functionality of the room. Have you left enough room for doorways and drawers to open? Can people push their chairs back to get out? Is there enough to pass behind the pushed out chairs? And what about doors? To ensure the best entrance to your dining area, we advise leaving 120m square from the doorway.

If you’re going for a whole new fresh look and are unsure of what furniture would work best in your dining room, take a look at what you should consider when buying dining room furniture.

Choosing the right size dining table

Hove dining set | Hove sideboard

When choosing your dining table, it’s important to think about how it will sit in relation to the rest of the room. There’s nothing worse than having to squeeze past furniture to get seated or to walk through the space, so make sure you leave enough room. Allow a minimum of 70cm space between the table edge and the wall or other furniture, or up to 90cm if you want to create a more spacious feel.

So how do you measure a dining table? The size of your table will ultimately depend on the space that you have. Simply measuring your room and subtracting the 70-90cm from each side will give you a guide to work with – but make sure to factor in other furniture such as dressers and sideboards. This will then help you to decide the number of place settings that your space will afford you.

For more on specific table sizes and how these will work in your space, find out how to choose the right size dining table.

How should your table look?

Brooklyn dining set | @bellway_easton

It’s not just the measurements you should think about. How do you want the space to feel? If you’re primarily using the room for intimate family meals, consider an extendable dining table to allow more space when entertaining, studying or even doing crafts.

If you’re working with a small space, bear in mind that your table should be no narrower than 90cm to allow for comfortable place settings. If you’re concerned that your space may not be adequate for this, it’s worth exploring a round dining table, or placing the table against a wall for the use of three sides.

You’ll of course also want to consider how the table looks and feels. A chunky rustic dining table may make a small room look overcrowded, in the same way that a large space may drown out a small square dining table. It’s also worth noting that bigger tables make intimate conversation far more difficult, so determine the feel you’re going for before you buy.

For more on the shape of your dining table, take a look at how to choose the right dining table and chairs for your home.

How to measure your dining room chairs

Romsey dining set | Romsey dresser | Romsey tallboy

When it comes to finding the right dining chairs for your space and dining table, there are a number of logistics to consider. If you choose a dining set, you can rest assured that the table to chair spacing has already been calculated for you. If you’re choosing your own, however, you’ll need to consider the depth and width of the dining chairs, as well as the space necessary for table settings.

Standard table heights are typically between 75 and 80cm. For the ideal seating experience, allow for between 26 to 30cm between the seat and the top of the dining table so that your guests can sit comfortably under the table. You may need to increase this distance, however, if you opt for an armchair style of seating, to accommodate the arm rest.

Finding the right chair spacing

Richmond dining set | Richmond dresser

So, how do you position your dining chairs? We recommend leaving between 60cm and 80cm per place setting, to allow for enough elbow room as well as shared space. Do also ensure that you leave at least 38cm of depth for each placement, as well as 13cm between this placement and the counterpart on the opposite side of the table. You want to make sure you have enough space for dishes, glasses and bottles when eating!

If you feel that you don’t have a big enough margin around your dining table to fit chairs, why not consider benches? They’re an ideal space-saving solution as they can simply be tucked away when not in use. But do ensure

Take a look at the Dining Table Size Guide to find out which Oak Furnitureland pieces would work best for your desired seating numbers and room space.

Adding accessories to your dining room

Islington dining set | Islington sideboard

A great dining room rug can really add texture and depth to your dining room. When placing it under your dining table, ensure that you leave at least 60cm each side of the table to allow for chairs to be pulled out seamlessly. It’s also recommended to match the shape of your rug to the room or the shape of the table, particularly if it’s round.

When measuring up your dining room, don’t forget about the lighting. If you’re looking to make a statement with a chandelier or pendant lighting above the table, ensure you’ve calculated the proportions. As a rule of thumb, leave between 75 and 85 cm between the table top and light feature, and ensure that the shape and diameter doesn’t overwhelm the size of the table.

How to get your furniture into the dining room

Knightsbridge dining table | @rachelducker

Now that you’ve worked out what furniture will fit in the room, you’ll have to work out how you’ll get it in there before making the purchase. Ensure that you measure both the hallways and doorways that need to be accessed to place the piece into the room.

If your desired space is not on the ground floor, ensure that you also measure any lifts or stairs for clearance height. Do note that most of our furniture is delivered fully assembled, so the full measurements of the piece will have to be taken into consideration when assessing the delivery of your furniture to your chosen room.

You should now be ready to get creative with the configuration and styling of your dining arena! Shop our wide range of dining room furniture to find the perfect piece for you and your home. Share your dreamy dining updates with us on Instagram and tag #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome in your posts.

The post Your dining room measurement guide appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Read on for our top tips on all of the different ways you can create a multipurpose dining room to work around your needs.

How to make a dining room more functional

1. Create a flexible home office

Parquet desk | @elliesdecorandmore

With many of us having to work from home more than we used to, a good home office is becoming more of a necessity. Transforming your dining room into a work area is probably the most obvious choice, particularly if you’re pushed for space or budget as you can just use the dining table as a desk. All you need is a convenient place to store your work equipment and access to a power source.

Alternatively, you can add a desk to your dining room to create different zones for work and pleasure. If you don’t want to see your work during the evening you could get a fold-up desk or a curtain that pulls across to hide the area. Make sure to measure your room first – here’s our handy guide on how to measure your dining room.

2. Get creative with a music room

Another great use for a multipurpose dining room is to combine it with a music room. If you or your kids play instruments, or want to start learning, dining rooms can be a great space for playing and storing your musical equipment. Smaller instruments can be stored in a sideboard or cabinet, or you could even make a fun display and hang them from the wall.

Is it odd to have a piano in the dining room? Not at all, in fact it’s actually traditional. Before smart phones and TV, playing live music after dinner was a popular way to entertain guests. Fitting a small upright piano in the corner of your dining room makes it multipurpose without using up too much space, and can add a touch of grandeur to your decor.

To create this multipurpose room, all you need is somewhere to sit while you play and storage space for stands, instruments and sheet music.

3. Become a host with the most with a guest room

Jasmine sofa bed

If you don’t typically use your dining room, why not repurpose it as a guest room? The best way to do this depends on what you’ll use the space for the most.

If you think you’ll use it more as a guest room, then consider having a fold-up dining table, either attached to the wall, or one which you can slide into or behind cupboards. With this option it may be best to use a sofa bench instead of dining chairs, as that could go at the end of your guest bed and still work in a bedroom setting.

If you’d like to keep a dining space as an option for socialising or family events, then consider getting a sofa bed which can fold up as a comfy seating area, and be pulled out when guests are staying. For this you’ll need somewhere to store the bedding, and a side table that could work as a bedside table.

When styling this multipurpose room, use the same colour schemes for both dining and bedding decorations, as this will save yourself a lot of time and money changing out accessories.

4. Level up with a study space

St. Ives extending dining table | @mrs_roobottom_home

An easy and teen-friendly way to multipurpose your dining room is as a study space as this requires very few changes. You just need somewhere to store any placemats or decorations that you would have on the dining table, a close power socket, and some upright and comfortable dining chairs for sitting on while they work.

Hide any ugly textbooks or scrappy notes in a sideboard with closed storage. Again, make sure to think about where your charging cables will cut across, and hide extension leads behind cupboards and seating. An extendable dining table could work best for this, as you could have a small daily study space during the day and a large dining table for entertaining and eating in the evening.

5. Tidy up with storage

Parquet sideboard | @atnumberfourteen_

Worried you might have too many things in your dining room for all of these activities? Storage is your answer. The space around your dining room table gives you loads of room for built-in or freestanding storage. Use cupboards, shelves or sideboards to store any miscellaneous items that you want regular access to. Just make sure to consider whether or not you want your things on show when choosing between open and closed storage options.

If you get a space-saving dining table, like an extendable or fold-up table, you can make even more space for large storage furniture. Get some inspiration for some stylish storage solutions in our handy blog about decluttering.

6. Give yourself a second living room

Morgan sofa | @life_inside_our_home

There is no rule to say that you can’t put a sofa in your dining room. Sofas and lounge chairs can soften your dining room and make it feel more comfortable and relaxing. Adding a sofa is also a great way to fill an awkward or empty space in a long dining room.

It can also make the space multipurpose, as when you’re not using the room for meals you can still relax in it. If you’re short on space, use a padded sofa bench instead of dining chairs. Just make sure you get a sofa that is high enough that you can eat at the table, or consider installing built-in benches with cushions as a more permanent option.

7. Have a living room/dining room/office combo

Feeling ambitious, or short on space? Put three rooms into one with a multipurpose dining room, lounge and home office. This is more simple than it sounds, you just need to think carefully about your layout and use clever furniture. A sofa against the wall can double up as living and dining seating, and an extendable or fold-up dining table and a fold-up desk tick both work and dining options.

This creates a really flexible space, but to keep it cohesive, stick to a shared colour palette throughout and indicate different zones through rugs, furniture, lighting and contrasting textures.

8. Make memories with a playroom

Parquet dining table | @hausfifteen

A dining room can make a great playroom for young kids. Why not use your multifunctional dining table as a space for them to do their colouring in?

To keep their play safe, ensure that your dining table is too high for them to climb on top of, or use a fold-up dining table. Store all of the toys you want for the playroom in closed storage in a sideboard or cabinet. Your dining room wall decor could also double up as playroom art if you can find fun but classy prints that work for both kids and adults.

If you need more space for play, keep a wall clear and temporarily push the dining table against it to make more room, and lay a cosy rug or foam playmat for them to sit on.

9. Relax in your own library

Boston bookcase | @sandpiperbarn

If you’re a bookworm you may have always dreamed of having a library, but where do you find the space? A library is in essence just large bookshelves and a good place to sit, so it’s definitely something you can create in a dining room.

Cover a wall top to bottom with built-in or freestanding bookshelves, and put a comfy reading chair, side table and floor lamp in the corner of your dining room. This is a great solution if you’re looking for small dining room ideas or ways to fill odd nooks, as built-in bookshelves don’t take up too much room but can create a big impact. Plus, it can be great fun to style them with not just books, but vases, house plants, candles and picture frames, which add a homely feel to the space.

10. Combine with your kitchen

Hercules dining table | Scroll Back dining chairs

Combining your kitchen and dining room is a fantastic way to save space while keeping functionality. One way to do this is by installing benches in the corner of a room with comfortable, custom-made cushions, with a dining table next to them.

If you have a breakfast bar but want a larger table for entertaining, you can also use a fold-up dining table on a free wall of the kitchen, and use either a sofa bench, built-in bench or dining chairs for seating.

Hopefully this has inspired you to create your dream multipurpose dining room. If you make any changes to this space we’d love to see them – just tag us Instagram or use the hashtag #OakFurnitureland.

The post How to make a multipurpose dining room appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

St. Ives large sideboard | St. Ives 6 and 8 seater extendable dining table | Wave Back rustic oak dining chair

Dive into home maintenance

The best way to mark a new start in the home is through a total refresh, that means decluttering, repairing and, you guessed it, some aptly-named spring cleaning! By putting winter objects away for next year and getting rid of things you don’t need anymore, you’re giving yourself space for change and really demarcating a physical shift in surroundings when it can feel quite stagnant.

Next, we recommend setting out time to fix and repair the things that you didn’t quite have time to get to over winter. Bothered by a wonky blind? Fix it. Been meaning to upcycle an old console table? Get your apron on and start painting. The longer daylight hours will keep you motivated.

Romsey large sideboard | @herandhers_

All sofas and armchairs, whether they’re fabric or leather, need to be cared for after the excess in traffic over the winter period and its associated festivities.

Change up your accessories

Now it’s time to incorporate the sights and smells of the season to really bring a sense of spring into your home. Where you had bundles of blankets for winter, store them away in your storage footstool or blanket box and swap them out for softer hues or brighter prints. Think sunny yellows, sweet pastels and zesty geometry.

Updating your lighting will also help your new colours shine. Perhaps change your curtain fabric to something less heavy and velvety, opting instead for a lighter fabric in a colour like cream. This will help you maximise the hours of sun and help brighten up any corner of the home, providing less of a need for lamps that created that all-important wintry glow last season.

Jensen two seater sofa | Hove nest of tables

Mirror the new life outside by bringing life indoors this spring. Houseplants are ever-fashionable and have lots of benefits such as improving air quality and emitting a feeling of calm. Arranging an indoor jungle on a spare surface is especially useful for those living in an urban setting and who don’t have access to a garden.

Hercules large sideboard | @shell_williams71

Another way to invoke the world in bloom in your home is through springtime smells. Scented candles, diffusers, and oils will create a very aromatic feeling in the home. Don’t forget that the greatest springtime scent is the outdoors itself, so be sure to regularly let the changing air in by opening doors and windows wide, especially now it’s becoming warm enough to do so.

Brighten up your interiors and decor

If you fancy a total DIY renovation, you may want to roll-up your sleeves and give a certain room a new lick of paint. Changing the colour to something like a blushing pink or Scandi-inspired neutral will bring about a sought-after brightness, or you could go all-out with spring-inspired wallpaper. Whatever avenue you take, you’ll be really proud that you completed such a monumental project so early on in the year.

Parquet chest of drawers | @interiors_with_alice

You could even take it a step further and have new floors fitted, tearing away old carpets in exchange for summer-ready exposed wooden floors. If that’s too much work, however, consider a new area rug to help bring a burst of life to a living room or bedroom layout. For more spring styling tips, read this blog piece for even more home ideas and inspiration.

Evie loveseat | @home_with_robyn

The ultimate way to get your home ready for spring is to incorporate a fresh look with new furniture. Treat yourself to something you’ve been eyeing for a while, perhaps an accent chair for a reading nook that overlooks the garden or an even bigger change such as a new dining set to really usher in a new era.

You should now be ready to give your home a fresh look for the changing seasons. Don’t forget to show us your new looks over on Instagram, tagging us and using #OakFurnitureland.

The post The ultimate guide to getting your home ready for spring appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Even if you’re pinching pennies, there are plenty of simple but really beautiful ways you can uplift your home. Here are our easy tips for decorating with minimal fuss.

Reorganise your home

Decluttering will improve the quality of your space and mark a new beginning. This is a simple way to start, but it will have a huge impact on your entire home. You may wish to make some physical changes here too; install open shelving for both functional and display purposes or invest in new pieces that won’t break the bank. Browse our smart storage options like slimline tallboys for tricky spaces or multipurpose blanket boxes that can double up as a window seat.

Make bookcases beautiful

We love bookcases because they’re not only useful, but they also have gorgeous display capacities. Order books by the colour of their spine rather than in typical A-Z fashion for a dazzling ombre effect. You can also line the interior of the bookcase with wallpaper to make yours one-of-a-kind.

Copenhagen small bookcase

Recalibrate

While you don’t necessarily need to reorder your life to adhere to the principles of feng shui, it won’t hurt to press reset on your home decor. Try moving things from room-to-room and make pieces that are usually tucked away in more private spots, like the bedroom, the focal points of communal rooms and spaces.

Looking to channel your home redesign energy into your bedroom?

Be open to the possibilities of paint

You don’t need to be a Picasso to paint your home, nor do you need to splurge on a decorating team to get elbows deep for you. If you’re a DIY novice, enlist the help of a friend or partner and tackle the task together. Make the job uncomplicated; paint a feature wall, the skirting boards, or even a two-tone wall. If you’re feeling confident enough then you could undertake the ‘fifth wall’ – the ceiling! A fresh lick of paint can have transformative effects on the rest of the room.

Bevel king-size bed | Hercules side table

Upcycle

Similarly, you can repaint ageing but beloved pieces of furniture to give them a new lease of life. Reinvigorate their original coat or try a whole new shade to totally reinvent the piece.

You can also use new materials to recover upholstery that you’ve become a bit bored of. This technique requires precision, but works a treat on sofas, armchairs or accent chairs. If you don’t have much experience, try practising by making new cushion covers with eye-catching prints or textural materials like velvet.

Check out our living room ideas on a budget for more expert home style advice that won’t break the bank.

Refresh soft furnishings

Speaking of soft furnishings, updating yours is not only incredibly easy, but it’s a cheap update in the grand scheme of things. For example, a new area rug can shake up the whole room’s appearance and introduce a refreshed colour palette for you to bounce off. Alternatively, you can craft your own dining table runner with spare fabrics that you might have lying around.

Orrick king-size bed | St. Ives bedside table

Tap into tile

You don’t need to retile the entirety of your kitchen or bathroom – you could make a feature of the backsplashes around the hob or sink, or make the area around the shower a prime focus. Either way, refurbishments like these could be the small refreshes that your home is crying out for.

If you’re not feeling that brave, then tile paint could be a simpler alternative to revamping your space.

If you want some home design tips specific for your budget, check out the blog where we breakdown what’s realistically possible for what you want to spend.

Renovate your windows

Unsightly curtains can have a hugely unpleasant effect on an otherwise lovely interior design scheme. Maybe you’ve always wanted to change yours; if you’ve got a little more room in your budget, you might want to install French shutters, a fresh set of blinds or billowing curtains. If you’ve got less cash to work with, even a new trim can completely alter the appearance of curtains.

DIY displays

Original art and prints – though an incredible addition to any room – are often not very budget-friendly. Instead, frame old magazine covers for your bathroom or last year’s calendar pages in the hallway, giving paper destined for the recycling bin a new use. Otherwise, give your kids’ artwork pride of place over the dining room table or have family, friends and guests contribute to a hilarious Polaroid wall.

Brindle small sideboard

Don’t forget the details

Even slighter changes come in the form of replacing handles on cupboards and drawers – this is a great way to personalise key features of your home without making any drastic updates. You can also swap out lampshades for a similar effect. You’ll be surprised how minor details can give your decor a whole new look.

Hopefully you enjoyed our tips, and are ready to give your home a well-needed thrifty uplift! And make sure to show us your new home updates over on Instagram, using #OakFurnitureland.

The post Home decor updates on a budget appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.