In Indian homes the dining area is where the family meets every day, and where festival lunches and guests are served. It usually shares space with the hall or opens onto the kitchen, and it often includes a crockery unit and a wash basin. Here are dining room design ideas that work for apartments and villas.

Dining area with marble-top table, green chairs and cascading brass chandelier, Sidhartha Shankar house interior, Kanakapura Road
3D design visualisation prepared for a ModScale client, not a photograph of a completed home. See the full design.

Choose the right table

  • Four-seater: about 3 x 4 feet; suits compact 2BHK dining areas.
  • Six-seater: about 3 x 6 feet; the most common choice.
  • Round tables: seat more people in less space and are easier to move around.
  • Leave about 3 feet between the table edge and walls or furniture so chairs can be pulled out.

Dining room design ideas

Statement light over the table

A chandelier or a row of pendants about 30 to 34 inches above the table defines the dining zone and creates a warm mood. Put it on a dimmer.

Crockery unit

A crockery unit with glass shutters for display and closed storage below holds dinner sets, serving bowls and table linen. See dining room crockery unit design ideas.

Dining area with marble-top table, upholstered chairs and crockery unit
3D design visualisation prepared for a ModScale client, not a photograph of a completed home. See the full design.

Dining wash basin area

A basin in a niche with a stone counter and a mirror, partly screened from the table. See wash basin design.

Feature wall

Wall mouldings, a large mirror, wallpaper or art on one wall makes the dining area feel like a room of its own. See wall moulding design.

Bench seating

A built-in bench along a wall saves space, seats children easily and can hide storage underneath.

Partition from the living room

A jali, glass or shelf partition separates the dining area without blocking light. See partition design between living and dining.

Dining table with blush chairs set between the living room and staircase
3D design visualisation prepared for a ModScale client, not a photograph of a completed home. See the full design.

Materials and practical tips

  • A marble, quartz or laminated top is easy to wipe after meals.
  • Choose chairs with cleanable fabric or leatherette.
  • Plan a socket near the table for a hot plate or charging.
  • Keep the pooja unit, if it is in the dining area, on a calm wall and not behind a chair.

To plan the whole space, see hall design ideas and open vs closed kitchens.

Frequently asked questions

What size dining table suits an apartment?

A four-seater of about 3 x 4 feet suits compact dining areas; a six-seater of about 3 x 6 feet suits most 2BHK and 3BHK homes.

How high should a light hang over a dining table?

About 30 to 34 inches above the table top, so it lights the table without blocking views across it.

Should the dining area have a wash basin?

Most Indian homes prefer one near the dining area. Place it in a niche, partly screened from the table.

How much space is needed around a dining table?

About 3 feet between the table edge and walls or furniture so chairs can be pulled out and people can pass.

Is a round or rectangular dining table better?

Round tables seat more people in less space and suit square rooms; rectangular tables suit longer dining areas and larger families.

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