Simple Tips for Styling a Small Dining Area

Even if your home or apartment doesn’t have a separate dining room, that doesn’t mean you should have to eat your meals on TV trays or at your desk. Believe it or not, it’s possible to create a dining space in virtually any size home—it just takes some creativity and a smart shopping plan. Review our three simple tips and learn how to make the most of your living space!

Purchase a Round Dining Table

The shape of your dining table is important, and a round dining table is a great choice if you have limited space to spare. Without the sharp corners that square and rectangular dining tables have, round tables take up less space and are more versatile. Whether you want to place your dining table in a corner or at the center of a room, with a round dining table you can do so with ease. Also, if an unexpected guest drops by, it’s easy to squeeze in an extra space with a round dining table—a feat which is nearly impossibly with any other table shape.

Choose a Drop-leaf Dining Table

If you need a dining table just for two, but you anticipate entertaining from time to time, then a drop-leaf table may be the right choice for you. For daily dining, place your drop-leaf table flush against a wall with one or both leaves folded down. This will save you plenty of space in your home, while also providing more than enough room for two diners. Feel like hosting a dinner party? Fully extend your drop-leaf table when guests arrive to increase seating capacity, then simply fold the leaves back down when you’re done.

Consider Dining Benches or Stools

While high back dining chairs are the usual choice for formal dining rooms, if you are short on space, then it’s best to think outside the box. Dining room benches or counter stools are a good alternative because they take less space. They can even be tucked under the table when not in use, to further maximize their space-saving capabilities. Counter stools are a good choice if you want to provide each diner with their own personal space, while dining benches are perfect for those who prefer an intimate atmosphere.

If you are ready to upgrade your dining area, come to Curly’s Furniture, where you will find an extensive selection of dining room furniture at prices you can afford. Visit us in DeKalb, IL or at any one of our three furniture showrooms to find the dining furniture that is the right fit for you!

3 Ways to Upgrade Your Outdoor Entertaining

Now that summer is in full-swing, there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities and gatherings. Whether it’s a barbecue, a pool party, or a Labor Day celebration, summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family and make the most of the gorgeous weather. Considering all the time you’ll be spending outdoors, it’s important that you set up your deck or patio with fashionable outdoor furniture that can comfortably accommodate all your visitors. If you find your outdoor entertaining area is in need of an upgrade, follow these three tips to enhance your space.

Replace Patio Chairs with an Outdoor Sectional Sofa

Since summer celebrations are about bringing people together, consider purchasing a cozy outdoor sectional sofa to replace individual patio chairs. Our sectional sofas will bring your guests closer together, while also providing them with the comfort and beauty of a living room sofa. These spacious furniture pieces are weatherproof, easy-to-clean, and they feature luxurious plush cushions. Some of our outdoor sectionals even come with oversized ottomans, perfect for serving drinks and snacks.

Purchase an Outdoor Dining Set that Provides Shade

While there are many things to consider when purchasing an outdoor dining set—such as shape, size, and style—by far one of the most important things to consider is shade. If you purchase an outdoor dining table without sufficient shade, then your guests will have to unfortunately endure the sun’s heat and glare while they dine. At Curly’s Furniture, we are pleased to provide a selection of beautiful outdoor dining sets that feature sizable patio umbrellas that will help keep your guests cool and shield them from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Invest in a Statement-Making Fire Pit Set

If you are looking for a truly unique piece to add to your outdoor entertaining area, you may want to purchase one of our distinctive fire pit sets. Our gas fire pits will add visual intrigue to your space, while allowing you and your guests to keep the festivities going well into the night. Our fire pit sets come with comfy chairs and a burner cover that will convert the fire pit into a coffee table when it is not in use.

You can find these fantastic outdoor furniture selections at Curly’s Furniture, in addition to lounge chairs, outdoor heaters, and so much more! To shop our complete outdoor furniture collection, visit us in Streator, IL or any one of our three furniture showrooms.