Decorating Dilemmas is a weekly column in which our stylists answer your design questions, so you can tackle your home decorating project with complete confidence.
Dear How to Decorate,
We just bought a home and we move in May 1. We have been searching for a dining room table and chairs and I’ve decided I want “bench” seating.
I love the Coventry and Hampton bench options but I’m so confused about color choice because our kitchen has Brazilian cherry hardwoods and relatively dark cabinets as well as a dark granite.
We want to change the paint color but have not decided on one because I can’t figure out the fabric for the seating.
I’ll likely have the bench seating just flat on one wall (see photos) but I’m looking for any suggestions on color/fabric that would work best with the dark woods and dark counters.
I liked Ophelia Gray a lot but not sure if it will work in the space? Help!
Alix
Alix,
The Hampton Bench is a fantastic frame to start with around your eating area.
Since you will be changing your wall color, we think Ophelia Gray would be a nice option in which to wrap this bench.
Because of the distinctive color of your floors and cabinets, our team suggest the wall color Benjamin Moore Collingwood OC-28, then go a couple of shades darker in the keeping room.
Try hanging our First Light I Giclee Print above the Hampton Bench for a subtle gray and a hint of soft ochre.
We recommend the Chianni Trestle Table in rubbed black with the Hadley Rug Natural nested under it.
Try adding a couple of Nailhead Parsons Chairs in Cheetah Gray at the head of the table for a little drama and finish off the seating with Genora Side chairs is Distressed Ochre.
Our team suggests adding linen drapery panels on your window for softness and infusing your table with light from a fresh chandelier like our Eldridge Rectangular Chandelier.
For your Keeping Room, we suggest the Eaton Chaise in Haviland Gray tucked beside the existing black cabinet and flanked by a small side table like our Addison Tray Table in Antique Brass. Throw a pillow on it in Danish Honey for added color.
We also recommend adding our Blanc De Printemps Floral Print above your black cabinet.
Add drapery panels to soften your windows along with a rug under your chaise to finish off the room.
Happy Decorating!
The How to Decorate Team
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