We’re continuing our series on seasonal suggestions and tips by looking at one of our favourite parts of autumn – family and friend get-togethers, for meals, dinner parties and meet-ups. With the holiday season not far away, it’s time to start planning for the festive meals and parties you’ll be having. There’s nothing quite as enjoyable as a relaxing meal with loved ones around a dining table, so we’ve got some great suggestions on dining room furnishing style to keep your family meals looking and feeling stylish and fun.

Dining tables are the hub of the home, and the centre of attention. The dining table is the place where everything happens – family meals, birthday parties, get togethers and even acting as a makeshift desk. A good furnishing set is worth investing in, as it will last you and your family for years, so opt for high quality solid wood styles, made of sturdy and well-wearing materials like oak or pine. These have a beautiful natural character, timeless style and will age naturally with the passing years.

Pick a size and shape that suits your dining room. A round dining table is perfect for get togethers as everyone can see each other easily. These work best in open plan spaces and large dining rooms, with plenty of space to move around. In solid oak contemporary styles, these look refreshingly modern and attractive. If you’re tight on space, you can also go for bistro-style mini tables, ideal if you’re setting up a table in the kitchen and don’t want to take up too much room. Seating just two, they’re the perfect table for a romantic private meal, or a quick spot for breakfast.

Traditional tables in oak or pine are just as practical and handy, and perfect when you’re dealing with a conventional dining room area. An extending dining table is a great way of including versatility into your dining room design, giving you the option for more dining space when you need it, and easily collapsing away when you don’t. Traditional bench-style dining tables add rustic charm, while materials like reclaimed oak add immediate warmth and character with the naturally aged oak finish.

For an edgy alternative for dining room style, try a glass dining table. Perfect for more grown up settings, these look eye-catching and attractive, and are perfect when complemented by sleek leather seating. They’ll complement attractive lighting and are great for creating an atmospheric and modern feel to a dining room.