Ceiling Beams
Urban open plan. Open plans are still trending, and many, whether urban or suburban, integrate dining spaces into contiguous living and kitchen areas. The challenge is that wall space will likely be minimal for the placement of sideboards and china cabinets. In the design here it is solved with tall glass-enclosed cabinets that offer storage for tableware and lend decorative appeal. Cabinets for this purpose can be as shallow as 10 in., but 12, 14 and 16 in. (25, 30, 36 and 41 cm) work better. The widths will depend on your circumstances and what pieces you can find that work with your style. Just keep in mind that you will want to maintain at least 36 in. (91 cm) clear off the edge of your table for occupied chairs so that others can comfortably pass around them. You will need 54 in. (137 cm) if you require wheelchair access.
Use this illustration as a simple guide to assist in selecting furnishings and planning arrangements. Important elements are:Room widthRoom lengthTable shapeTable sizeChair typeChair sizeCabinet type (sideboard or hutch)Cabinet sizeCirculation clearances
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