When the family gathers to share food and laughter, the dining table stands at the centre of it all. Whether handmade, purchased, or inherited and steeped with history, the table holds special significance to families, particularly at holiday time. It's where memories are made.

There was a time when many of us had a dining room with an imposing wood table, matching chairs and matching buffet. But today’s aesthetic is less rigid and more relaxed – all that dark matching furniture is overwhelming and looks dated. So how can you create a dining room that is special, fresh and never boring? One great way is to focus on your chairs.

Upholstery. Upholstered dining room seating is comfortable and adds colour and style to the room. If you have the option to reupholster existing chairs, consider something daring – toile or an animal print or a bold geometric. It can take a matching set from drab to fab! Bench Seating. Bench seating works well in a laid-back dining area. Don’t think picnic benches – there are lots of luxury choices available! Benches can also work well in combination with chairs.