A dining area can be one of the most intimate atmospheres in your home. There is nothing more enjoyable than eating good food in the company of your family and friends. Decorating your dining room to fit your needs can be a very demanding task. To further accommodate your needs, please take a moment to read this style guide, which explains the different types of dining room furniture we sell, and mentions their main features. Having a better understanding of the key features for each dining style will help you pick a look that is right for you.

Contemporary/Modern

Contemporary/Modern dining sets add a truly unique and memorable touch to a dining area. The smooth surface tables usually have right angle corners, distinct edges, and asymmetrical lines. Characterized by design details and constructed of iron materials, these dining sets normally feature abstract designs, especially on the base or legs of the table and chairs. Overall, Contemporary/Modern dining sets brings a bold, distinctive character to any space.

Traditional

Traditional dining sets evoke images of understated elegance and the grand style of the 18th and 19th centuries. The tables come in various shapes and sizes, but they are most commonly rectangular or round, with a mix of straight and curved lines. Many pieces in traditional dining sets have light carved detailing with little or no surface decoration. Wood pieces will often be finished with darker stains.

Transitional

Transitional dining sets are a seamless blend of traditional and modern that fit in with almost any décor. They feature a simple, angular look and edgy construction materials, such as glass and metal, as well as classical lines and carved wood details. Transitional dining sets usually come in lighter finishes, with matte surfaces, and comforting curves.

Casual

Casual dining sets create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. White, natural or light finishes along with the decorative turned, carved, straight or tapered legs accentuate this simple yet classy style. Round and oval shaped tables are poplar in this category, but many casual dining sets do include rectangular or square tables. Casual tables usually feature smooth tops with striking highlights.

Country/Farmhouse

Country/Farmhouse dining sets are casual and rooted in nature; terms such as “comfortable” and “homey” are often used to describe country dining. An air of romance surrounds this style and the distressed finishes give it an antique, almost nostalgic, warmth. Most Country/Farmhouse dining sets are made of pine or oak, and the finish is usually washed, rubbed, or painted - all over or on certain areas, such as the table base. Country collections normally have simple lines with little emphasis on decorative details.

Mission/Shaker

Although slightly different, Mission/Shaker dining sets are grouped together because they share many similar characteristics. Both Mission and Shaker tables have clean, spare, rectangular lines. Oak is a popular, but not exclusive, component of Mission/Shaker style furniture and ornamentation is rare. The main difference between the two styles is Shaker sets tend to be lighter in color and less heavy-handed than Mission style dining sets.

Rustic

Rustic dining sets are rugged in appearance, calling to mind images of deep forests and log cabins. Exposed and rough woods, simple lines, with worn/distressed or natural finishes over woods such as pine, ash or cedar, characterize these dining sets. Most pieces have a textured appearance and the legs are usually thick and squared. Often, rustic dining sets incorporate natural details, such as leather upholstery or nail-head trim.

French Country/Provincial

The graceful curves of the cabriole legs easily distinguish French Country/Provincial dining sets from other styles. Beautiful scalloped edges and aprons enhance most tables and carved detailing tops off many pieces. In general, the dining furniture appears slightly rustic, with a welcoming, old-world feel.

Tropical/Exotic

Most Tropical /Exotic dining sets call to mind images of relaxing island retreats and swaying palm trees. Constructed of wicker, rattan or wood, these dining sets typically consist of highlighted wood finishes, wrought iron scrolls on the table bases, and upholstered chairs in neutral fabrics. Many tables are round with a glass top, but wood tops and rectangular/square shapes are also common. Hand painted patterns and details, such as palm trees, are also key features for tropical/exotic dining furniture.

Windsor

Unlike other dining styles, Windsor dining sets are distinguished by their chairs. The familiar spindle back design and splayed legs are reminiscent of the early 1700s and the simple, beautiful craftsmanship hasn’t changed much in over 300 years. The chairs are constructed of wood, with side stretchers running between the front and back legs, and the seats are not upholstered. Windsor dining tables are simple in design, much like casual and country dining sets. They can be round, square, oval or rectangular and come with or without extensions. In keeping with the simple design, Windsor dining sets do not have much detailing.

Queen Anne / Chippendale

Queen Anne / Chippendale dining sets are elegant and stately in appearance. The tables commonly feature a scrolled, decorative skirt and corners, a rectangular-shaped apron frame and beveled edging. The sturdy table and chair legs appear delicate, with carved knee cabriole legs that taper to a graceful Queen Anne foot. Queen Anne chairs normally have a rounded, almost feminine look, while Chippendale chairs seem a bit more masculine with their squared backs.