10 small dining room ideas to make the most of your space

Struggling to style a small dining room? While it can be challenging to find the perfect furniture and décor to suit a small space, some savvy styling tips will create a space that is practical, multi-purpose and appears much bigger than it is.

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Whether you have a separate dining room or a small dining area in your kitchen or living room, these tips will transform your room and create a space where you'll be proud to entertain…

1. Invest in a foldaway dining table

If you don't have enough space for a dedicated dining room, investing in a foldaway table will mean you can set up a dining area as and when required. Whether it's just set up for two or fully-extended to host a dinner party, this multi-purpose piece could also double up as a desk space in smaller homes. (Photo: IKEA)

2. Go bright

Add impact to a small dining room with bright colours and quirky design touches. Try dining chairs in complementing colours, a bold shade on the walls and hang artwork on the walls to create a space that will be a real talking point among guests. (Photo: Cuckooland)

3. Dinner for two

If you don't have the space for a large dining table, a round bistro-style table is a chic and practical choice for couples and smaller families. This round table and upholstered dining chairs look extra-stylish topped with fresh flowers and candles. (Photo: Furniture Village)

READ: 14 contemporary kitchen ideas to modernise your home

4. Try dining benches

Benches are a great space-saver in smaller dining rooms. Not only will they comfortably seat guests, but they can also be tucked away under the table after use, so they don't take up valuable floor space. (Photo: Nest)

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5. Go minimal

Even if you don't have space for a separate dining room, you can still create a place to eat within even the smallest of kitchens if you think outside the box. A floating shelf can double up as a breakfast bar/ dining table, just pull up bar stools and you have a new place to eat. (Photo: Wilko)

6. Opt for an extendable table

Investing in some quality yet functional furniture is a must for small dining rooms. An extendable dining table is ideal for hosting dinner parties, and can be made smaller to save space when it isn't needed. Likewise, stackable dining chairs can be stored away neatly when not in use. (Photo: Furniture Village)

7. Go for dark opulence

Small dining rooms can still be seriously impressive with the right styling. We love these deep blue walls and plush dining chairs, with striking metallic touches. A gold low-hanging light is the pièce de résistance to complete this gorgeous dining room. (Photo: Nest)

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8. Get savvy with your space

Don't let a small dining room limit you; utilise every inch of space by adding wall-mounted shelving units and storage where you can display plants, ornaments, or simply store condiments like salt, pepper and sauces. (Photo: Cuckooland)

9. Dine by the window

Make use of a bay window by transforming it into a dining area. A round table fits perfectly in this space, and has the added benefit of filling the area with natural light, helping to make it feel bigger. (Photo: Nest)

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10. Think outside the box

Even if you don't have a spare room or space in the kitchen to use as a dining area, it may well be possible to create one elsewhere. Think outside the box and you could make use of another area of your home, such as a large hallway, for a unique dining room. (Photo: Hurn and Hurn)

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