We've toured many homes across the Garden State over the past nine years, and one of the recurring themes I'm seeing from buyers is the desire for an open-concept first floor, especially the opening up of the formal dining room space, to allow for a more casual flow. While we are seeing some formal dining rooms being modernized or refashioned, we are also seeing that dining rooms are increasingly being converted to more flexible living spaces (read: used more regularly by homeowners).
For those that are contemplating an alternate purpose for their formal dining room space, we've outlined some ideas we've come across in our home tours!
#1. Home Office
As more work from home, at least part-time, create a cozy office space! To ensure privacy and reduce noise in the area—especially if your dining room is close to the kitchen—consider adding French doors or pocket doors. Add warmth and brightness to the space with furniture, rugs and noise-reducing acoustic panels. If your dining area needs to serve both as an office and a dining room, add versatile furniture such as a table that can work as a desk and for dining.
#2. Library
Lining your walls with bookshelves can transform your space into a warm home library. You can still include a center table for dining, entertaining or even as a homework/work station. To elevate the space, consider painting the shelves a bright color.
#3. Game Room
Add multi-functional furniture for group game/card nights and add tall stand-alone shelving units or chests, as well as built-in shelving to organize puzzles and games. Since this room is all about fun, add in some fun rugs or accent pieces.
#4. Living Room
Some homes aren't coming equipped with living rooms these days, so why not transform this space into a formal living room, a gathering place where guests can comfortably socialize? Adding in a flexible table/desk will also provide you with the flexibility of a home office work space, as needed.
If you're thinking of renovating or converting your dining room, we're always happy to review specs and chat about your ideas!