If the kitchen is the heart of the home, the dining area is the soul. This is where we gather to share food, share stories, and share a bit of ourselves with friends, family—and friends who become family over time. Sometimes we set the table for two and enjoy breakfast over the morning paper, a romantic date night in, or a midnight snack with an old friend in town for a visit. Other times we set the table for as many as we can squeeze in, shoulder to shoulder, to toast to the holidays, celebrate family milestones, or sit down for a neighborhood potluck. No matter the size of the feast, whether it’s casual and comfortable or a bring-out-the-best-China occasion, something special happens when we gather together and share a meal.
At Trilogy by Shea Homes, we know that the dining area is where life unfolds and stories are told. Our dining areas make friends and family want to sit and stay awhile, and our flexible floorplans allow you to choose the layout that perfectly fits your lifestyle.
In the Splendor floorplan at Trilogy in Summerlin, the dining area sits directly between the kitchen and great room, creating a natural party flow of apps at the kitchen island, main meal enjoyed around the table, and after-dinner drinks casually served at the sofa.
Splendor Floorplan at Trilogy in Summerlin
Several homes, including the Engage floorplan at Trilogy Lake Frederick, feature dining areas adjacent to spacious covered patios, with optional sliding walls of glass that can turn any meal into an alfresco feast.
Engage Plan at Trilogy Lake Frederick
At Trilogy Tehaleh, the Valletta floorplan’s dining area is set right next to a generous kitchen island, allowing both spaces to be used for seating when you’re hosting a crowd. Plus, you can put the finishing touches on dessert without missing a minute of the convo at the dining room table.
Valletta Plan at Trilogy Tehaleh
Defining Your Dining Area
Whether your home has a formal dining room or open dining area, you can define this space with design elements that reflect your style and set the stage for many memorable meals to come. Read on for a few stylish tips to create a truly delicious dining area.
Start with What You Love. Starting from scratch when designing a space can feel intimidating. As a simple first step, find one piece that you absolutely love—a light fixture, a centerpiece, or wall art that acts as a focal point—and let this piece be your design inspiration for the entire space.
Find a Table Shape that Fits. Not just fits your space—fits your design style and lifestyle. The shape of your table not only sets the style tone for your dining area, it also affects your seating space. Rectangular tables set a traditional tone, while a square table can be a stylish option for a more intimate dining area. Round tables are ideal for smaller spaces, as there are no corners to bump against—and a pedestal base offers extra legroom for dinner guests. An oval table combines the traditional look of a rectangular table with the space efficiency of round.
Light Up the Room. A gorgeous light fixture is like a beautiful piece of jewelry for your dining space. From a classic and clean-lined drum pendant to a divinely dramatic chandelier, a light fixture hung just above your table makes an immediate style statement. It also allows you to control the lighting and mood of your dining space, especially when set on a dimmer.
Consider Seating Space. If you want your guests to feel right at home, comfortable seating is key. When choosing a chair, allow at least a foot of space between the top of the table and the seat, and give your guests at least two feet of table area to themselves for elbow room. While armrests take up more space, they may be a more comfortable option. A bench offers flexible seating—and if you really want to make the most of your space, you could opt for benches with storage for linens and seasonal dining décor.
Add a Rug. Especially in an open-concept layout, positioning a rug under the table is a simple and stylish way to define your dining zone. It adds color, coziness, and comfort to your space—and a quick vacuum will take care of any crumbs that it catches along the way.
Once you’ve decided on your essential style pieces, you’ll have a beautiful base that can be dressed up for dinner parties, made festive for the holidays, or enjoyed just the way it is. Add good food and good company, and you’ll have a dream dining space that would make anyone want to sit and stay awhile.