Let's Eat In.

Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, luncheons and brunches would all feel welcome in any of these wonderfully designed dining areas.

Katie Lee Joel's beautiful, traditional dining room creates a dramatic contrast thanks to the dark wood floors juxtaposed against the white classic chairs and table.  The room feels relaxed and current despite the formal furnishings.

In the dining room pale beadboard walls counterpoint the dark-beamed oak ceiling and floorboards. The sturdy dining table and chairs, brick fireplace, and wrought-iron light fixture lend homespun charm.  The orange accents add a cheery punch.

With its earthy palette and plenteous layering of textures the nook has a natural ease that soothes the spirit.  I love the wrap around tufted banquette in this dining nook designed by Peter Dunham.  The iron lanterns are centered directly over the table and in front of the double windows, making a strong case for symmetry.

In this mid-century modern dining room by Frank Roop, vintage pieces abound.

Wrapping around this Atlanta dining room is a hand-painted 19th-century wallpaper.  The zebra rug is a nod to Albert Hadley.  The strong white painted columns anchor the space.