One of the most important factors to consider when planning your ideal kitchen is the table and chairs. Of all the items in your kitchen it is the chairs and table that will be used most often - as, let's face it you are probably planning on sitting and eating in your redecorated kitchen. With this in mind it important to select the correct table and chairs to fit the style, size and expected use of your kitchen.
Firstly, and most importantly, be sure to measure the space you have available. This is to ensure that you will have space not only for the table itself, but also for the chairs to be moved easily from underneath and sufficient room to walk around the table. To do this you will need to allow for about a metre gap between the wall and the table that you select.
Consider at this stage how many people will generally be sitting at the table at one time - and plan accordingly. It is generally recognised that you need about 60cm of table space per person, to enable you to eat comfortably without touching elbows. If you have a family of four, but also on occasion like to entertain larger numbers of guests, you should consider investing in a dining table that features an extendable element.
Next consider the style of your table and chairs. There is a lot to be said in terms of the understated style of a classic wooden farmhouse table and chairs, but these can often be expensive and restrictive in terms of size. A more modern design can be a difficult choice - try and imagine how the table and chairs will fit in with the existing décor of your kitchen - and also bear in mind that what may look contemporary now, may not be not be as ultra-modern and striking 5 years down the line.
When it comes to selecting your chairs, consider first whether it is comfort and functionality or design and style you are looking for. For a busy kitchen where kids and adults alike will be coming and going throughout the day, it is best to go for a practical design that is hard wearing and also comfortable. If you opt for a tall 'breakfast bar' type table as the centrepiece of your kitchen, you may also wish to consider going for bar stools or high chairs over regular chairs.
Remember also that your dining chairs do not necessarily have to match. Currently one of the more popular choices is to opt for a wooden table, accompanied by a miss-matched selection of vintage dining chairs to add an eclectic and shabby-chic feel to your dining area.