What would you put in this space?
I have an open-concept floor plan. The "dining space" has a 54" square counter-height table used for puzzles, games, and crafts. We also have an oversized dresser for storage. Both pieces are too large for the space (and they don't go together, color-wise). I'd like to keep a counter-height table here and am debating between 42" and 48" square counter-height table with 4 upholstered chairs. I'd like to keep something on the wall, but perhaps smaller scale. The current storage unit is 18" x 58" x 44".
The space doesn't really allow for the 3' rule around the table unless we go small. I'm ok with violating that rule, but the current setting is definitely too tight.
We also have to allow for a "walkway" between this table and the family room area. I've sometimes tried to expand that "corner" of the family room by pushing furniture closer to the dining space but 40" seems to be the minimum space for a comfortable "walkway." Reducing the table size would give us a slightly bigger walkway or more room to expand the family room.
I've attached a photo of the area and my drawing of the space with dimensions. I don't think the photo really captures how cramped this space is. I"m feeling overwhelmed....what would you do?
Comments (6)
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What would you put in this space?
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Comments (10)Oh good ideas and things to consider. If we move to this house, it's because it has a much bigger yard and better location (less traffic so my cat won't get squished). It has one more bedroom BUT less public living space. Currently I have a living room, dining room (big enough to have a piano and kid art table in addition to a regular dining room stuff) and family room. This place has (behind the kitchen) sort of a single long area that's had walls removed and isn't going to be the equivalent of 3 separate rooms. It has a porch across the front (as does my current place) and these porches are usually turned into bigger kitchens when people update. These are single story 50s ranches. I haven't bought the place so I can't quite go in and start measuring...it's bedrooms on one end, garage on the other, and the middle is kitchen front, open living area back. So I do need a playroom, and an office, and a craft room, and a library. Don't need a sunroom (we can usually go outside) and don't need a greenhouse (for some strange reason there actually IS one). Splitting up the area for a small playroom/office and an actual foyer instead of a skinny entry is intriguing. I will have to try to do a sketch of the approximate layout. Orrrrr I could just decide if I want the place first and then remodel it. :) But it seems like there are enough good ideas that I could do SOMEthing with it! On the other hand, I do have a 37 year old camper I could cook in, but it's just a 3 burner cooktop and no water heater....See More
C H
13 days agoC H
13 days agoC H
13 days agolast modified: 13 days agoHere's another view. I moved the dresser and removed the leaf to see the table at 36" x 54". I like the barstools facing the wall better than facing the stair banister. I still think the permanent solution is a square counter-height table, probably 42", but we will try this for a few days. A rug might pull it together, but it would take up too much space if large enough to go under chairs when pulled away from the table.
This is an example of the struggle with an open floor plan. This area started with a desk. Then, we used a round 42" regular-height round table. Next, we took out the table and put the dresser on the wall by itself. When we realized we needed the table, we added the 54" square table (borrowed from the basement). I'm still looking for the "perfect" solution, and the basement wants its table back.
I appreciate any suggestions for this space. Thank you!
PROBeverlyFLADeziner
13 days agoI'm not a fan of counter height anything because it's often uncomfortable for shorter or older people. Your space would look larger with a 30" high table and sideboard.
A taller canvas over the sideboard and a series of art pieces on the staircase wall could be interesting.
C H thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
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