Modern living has dictated that open plan living is what we’re all striving for with our busier-than-ever lives. If a Diner is what you’re looking to achieve then here’s our top tips.

Why have a –diner?
-diners are a brilliant idea for modern living. Dining is much less formal and dining rooms are often underutilised plus no one wants to be cooped up in a , cooking all day on their own, whether you’re cooking while watching over the family or entertaining. A -diner is also a modern expectation for people buying a new home so in most cases knocking through a dining to make an open–plan is worth the investment and even fitting a in a small is a very good move.

Outside dining
Extending the dining to outside areas is becoming increasingly popular (weather permitting!) so when possible plan the eating area near the garden. If you live in a flat, put the table near a balcony or failing that a window. If you do have a garden consider French or concertina doors extending the dining area to an outside patio or decked area.

Layout
Layout is very important. If you’re renewing the enture includig units then make use of free design advice from most stores. If you’re keeping the existing layout then where you put the table is dictated by this. In a large rectangular designers often use L shapes along tow adjacent walls with the table just off centre. A smaller will need more thought where you might be limited to a , either as part of a island or as a narrow shelf against a wall. Allow a good metre between the units and the chairs and if you don’t have this space don’t try to squeeze something in because you’ll get frustrated with the lack of space. Oval or circular tables take up less .

Think about colour
Colours which are light or finishes which are reflective – for both walls and units – will naturally make the appear bigger and brighter. Don’t limit yourself to just one colour unit, be brave and mix two door colours and stainless steel and really work the scheme.

Lighten up
Good lighting in a will always be a good investment. Pay particular attention above cooking and prep areas but go for low–level lighting over the dining area so you can vary the mood. If you don’t have the options then a simpler addition is a dimmer switch for the main overhead lights are a must. Ventilation in a -diner is more important than a standard because more people spend time there so spend time considering the cooker hood or extractor and invest in an efficient and attractive.

Its all in the detail
Finishing touches such as an old fashioned stove, an armchair, sofa, pictures, wallpaper or even a low table with a lamp go a long way to personalising a . The -diner will be used a lot and will be exposed to a lot of mess so wall coverings or paints, fabrics and tabletops should be able to wipe clean easily, while chair and sofa covers should be removable and washable, and any rugs easily cleaned.