Dining In - with style

Families are opting to dine-in more than dine-out in these tough economic times - and for good reason. However, a boring or bland dining room can make the idea seem less than appetizing.

We have some interesting ways to spice up your dining room and keep your family coming back for seconds:

1. Paint. This is the easiest designer trick to transforming a space. Use an appetite stimulating color, such as red, green, or brown.

2. Updating the light fixture will instantly brighten your space. Choose a fixture where the light bulbs face the ceiling so you’re not seeing an exposed bulb while dining.

3. Find a character piece to use as a sideboard or buffet. Even in contemporary settings, mixing in a few ethnic pieces will make the space come alive – and provide an interesting conversation piece for guests.

4. Choose a table that fits your family comfortably. There’s nothing worse than bumping elbows while trying to enjoy a wonderful meal.