Stunning Details

Soothing blues and creative ideas (how about those monogrammed slipcovers) make this dining room a great place to gather.

Which colors stimulate appetite and are, therefore, must-haves for dining rooms is a much-debated topic. We think great food trumps color every time. Still, crisp, fresh hues make this Wilmington, North Carolina, dining room shine without overpowering the design. see how to set a scene for a dinner party where the most important feature of the room is you and your guests.

Seeing Clearly

Sometimes the elements of a room with the greatest impact are those that are almost imperceptible. In this space, a mirror spans one wall above the chair rail. This treatment visually increases the size of the room and doubles the amount of light. Rather than having to stare at a wall, guests are afforded a sweeping view from any seat at the table. A beautiful crystal chandelier and lamps made of stacked glass spheres provide light while disappearing into the surroundings.

Setting Color Boundaries

By concentrating the majority of the room's color inside the rug's footprint, designer Paula Dayvault created an island of interest. This encourages guests to pay attention to the food and faces, not the decor. The rug introduces pattern to the space while the draperies and the soup tureen filled with white lilies reinforce the room's clean look. Light and lovely, this dining room is one island we wouldn't mind being stranded on. -TODD CHILDS

For More Info Browse dining areas of all styles and sources: southernliving.com/april2007

Mirror Magic

* Hang a large mirror opposite the doorway or windows to bounce natural light back into a room that doesn't get great light.

* Use mirrored trays on tables and sideboards to bring sparkle to lackluster areas.

* To add interest to a mirrored wall, hang artwork from picture molding at the ceiling. This will give the room depth and drama. Bonus: No holes in the walls.

From a crystal chandelier to shimmery drapery fabric, this dining room shines with ideas.

Monogrammed slipcovers dress down the more formal chairs while silver pieces glitter on a nearby sideboard.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Apr 2007
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