The dining room is no longer just a place to eat. These days, it’s where the best conversations happen, where glasses get refilled, and where dinner stretches into dessert, into stories, and sometimes right through to midnight.

As Kim van Duiven from Askö Design puts it, the dining table has taken on a new kind of energy. “Once upon a time, if you had people for dinner, you would adjourn for coffee afterwards. Now we’re still sitting there at one o’clock in the morning arguing over everything and opening another bottle of wine”

So how do you design a dining space that encourages people to linger, laugh, and stay a little longer? It starts with comfort, but it doesn’t stop there.

Choose the right size for your space and lifestyle

If you regularly host large gatherings, you’ll need space to spread out. But if your dinners are more intimate, a smaller table might make more sense.

For two to four people, aim for a table around 120 to 140 centimetres. For four to six people, 140 to 180 centimetres works well. Larger groups may need something closer to two metres, or even an extendable table that can reach up to three metres.

Extendable tables are a smart choice if you like to entertain but don’t want to lose floor space day to day. Just remember to leave enough room for chairs and movement around the table.

Comfort is king

If you want people to stay at the table long after the plates are cleared, the chairs have to be comfortable. It’s that simple.

Kim’s favourite chairs right now are the Florence dining chairs. “They are Italian leather with metal legs, and they look fabulous with a wooden table, a ceramic table or a glass table,” she says. “They wrap around your body and support you. You feel like you could sit there all night, and often it feels like you are doing just that”.

Look for chairs with gentle curves, supportive backs and materials that feel good against the skin. If you’ve ever sat through a long meal on a hard, upright chair, you’ll know the difference it makes.

Layer for warmth and softness

A rug under the dining table adds warmth, softens sound and helps anchor the space visually. Make sure the rug extends at least 60 centimetres beyond the table on all sides, so chairs stay on the rug even when pulled out. “There’s nothing worse than pushing back on your chair and then tipping backwards because you’re off the rug,” Kim says.

Layering your space with texture also helps the room feel more lived-in. Think natural fibres, subtle colour variations, a piece of art on the wall or a pendant light above the table to draw the eye down and create a sense of focus.

Don’t forget your sideboards and serving space

If you entertain often, it’s worth investing in extra surface space. Sideboards have made a strong comeback, offering both practical storage and a place to serve food during larger gatherings. They also provide a spot to showcase personal items like vases, books or art, adding personality to the room. Look for soft-close drawers and doors, and choose a finish that complements the rest of your space. A sideboard can easily double as a drinks station, a serving area or simply a stylish way to keep clutter out of sight.

Let your personality shine through

Matching dining sets used to be the norm, but Kim is a big believer in mixing things up. Don’t be afraid to choose chairs that contrast with your table. Add cushions, candles or a favourite centrepiece. If this is the space where your family gathers and guests linger, let it feel like you. It doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to feel good.

Because the best dinners aren’t the ones with perfect place settings. They’re the ones that last long into the evening, where everyone stays seated because they feel relaxed, welcomed, and right at home.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.