Dining Room Makeover: Changing the function of a room to create more usable space

Once again I find myself calling on my friend Liz, over at Designing Domesticity for help getting started on my latest room makeover. This time it is my Dining room.

The before shots.






This is a traditional formal dining room which attaches directly to the living room and kitchen. I sent the photos to Liz, along with the room dimensions and this is what she recommended, click here.

I love her suggestion to use the space as a library. We already have a large dining area in our family room that can comfortably seat 12 at the table, so we really have no need for a formal dining room. Click, here to see a photo of the table. This will give us space to do our own thing, while still sharing the same space as a family. Perfect!

Come back later this week and I will show you the inspirational photo, mood board, and project outline I have in-store for this room.

What do you think? Good use of space or am I going to regret giving up the formal dining room?

15 comments:

  1. I can't believe this . . . I am having the exact same issue and actually posted about changing my dining room, too: http://westerhold.blogspot.com/2011/01/room-ideas.html

    Can't wait to see how it turns out!
    april@Party of Five

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  2. no way you will regret it if you already have another large eating space. I say go for it!! can't wait to see pics :)

    BTW - I have 3 boys too...they are fun, aren't they?

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  3. Very cool!

    Stopping by from the Tuesday Hops to say hello and follow.
    I would love a visit from you.
    Have a great day!
    http://poshonabudget.com/2010/12/happy-tuesday-all.html

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  4. You have so much energy! Our dining room is the first room you come into (no foyer) so it's a challenge. It's far from our kitchen seating area so we use it as a library. The only problem there is that it's become a catch all (the dining room table) I like the little nook table she has as a suggestion better. You can play games etc. and it wouldn't be in the center of the room.

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  5. Hi there,

    I am your newest follower via the blog hops. Looks like a great blog you have here. I shall look forward to reading more from you. Please come by and visit me whenever you get a moment. I love new followers. :)

    Marie
    http://thethingswefindinside.blogspot.com/

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  6. Hey, I don't think you'll regret it...
    BTW, love your fireplace solution. I mentioned you in my blog today because I've also had to come with a solution...it's not as visually arresting as yours.
    I'm enjoying your blog.
    http://paddywackdesigns.blogspot.com/2011/01/when-fire-isnt-really-option.html

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  7. Thanks for stopping by.
    Looking forward to see what you do.
    Now following.

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  8. I love the idea of a library! How fabulous would it be with a comfy couch or chair for reading on? So cool!

    Thanks for following my blog. I'm now following yours!

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  9. No, I haven't started yet. We have been sick, sick, sick this week. I had plans to place things on Craigs List, move out the buffet, go to Lowes and by a more soothing color to pain that wall other than the red but I haven't been out of the house since Thursday.

    Can't wait to get started and can't wait to see your finished product, too!

    April@Party of Five
    http://www.westerhold.blogspot.com

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  10. Hi Sarah!
    1st let me say I think that's a great idea!
    Will you be building in the bookshelves? Or just placing existing bookshelves against the wall? If you aren't structurally altering the room in any way there's no reason you'll ever regret it because you could always remove the shelves should you choose to move. That pop out window would make a wonderful place for a window seat! You could then add a table and voila! Perfect reading spot.....Just sayin'*winks* Vanna

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  11. Hi Sarah, thanks for stopping by my blog and for your lovely comment. I've noticed I'm on your blog roll, you're very sweet, I'm so overwhelmed, thank u! Love visiting yours! You're on my favourite list too :))

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  12. (late) following back! your blog is adorable and i love the home makover fun! i think you should knock down one of those walls...great rooms are the best :)

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  13. Following from Wednesday Blog hopping!

    ~Veronica from

    TheChickenista Reviews

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