The art of gathering: how to create the perfect dining space for entertaining

CHOOSE THE PERFECT DINING TABLE

From round pedestals to handy extendable styles, the right dining table lends your home a certain air of sophistication. While function is paramount, there’s no reason why it should skimp on style – and Coco Republic’s expansive collection certainly brings something to the table.  

A round table is ideal for intimate gatherings, especially if your dining space is on the smaller side. The Sir William Round Dining Table, featuring a honed Carrara white marble top juxtaposed with a brushed brass base, is a true statement piece. Prefer to keep it casual? Crafted with a striking herringbone oak parquetry, the Oslo Round Dining Table is versatile enough to work with almost any decor. 

Rectangle designs and extension tables lend themselves to grand dinners or soirées with a never-ending guest list. Take this Scandi-inspired style, the Carmel Extension Dining Table, which puts an updated spin on a classic wooden design, or the Montpellier Extension Dining Table, a traditional piece defined by its parquetry top. With their extendable designs, both tables can be adjusted to accommodate more guests and retracted to their original form for day-to-day ease.

SET THE MOOD WITH ARTFUL LIGHTING

Artful lighting will help to evoke just the right mood for entertaining. Layering is key: in addition to overheads, table lamps and accent lighting help to create a warm, inviting feel.  

Not sure where to start? A pendant is a great way to centre the dining table and provide a focal point. But finding the right height is crucial – too low, and it obstructs conversation; too high, and it can feel off-kilter. If you’re after old-school glamour, opt for the Felix Pendant, or style the Eddie Glass Pendant as a trio for a distinctly contemporary look.  

Wall sconces will infuse your space with warmth, no matter the season. With brushed brass and alabaster finishes, the Textura Wall Sconce or Cleo Alabaster Wall Sconce are classic yet impactful. Looking for easy ways to alter the mood depending on the occasion? Fit dimmers to your lighting – it’s a simple way to transform a formal dinner into a relaxed, late-night gathering.

ENSURE LASTING COMFORT WITH PREMIUM SEATING

Comfortable seating is a key ingredient for a great dining room – especially if your dinner parties last well into the night. Our top tip? Always test out your dining chairs in person before buying. Our showrooms are the perfect place to do just that, with our expert design consultants on hand to help you find the right fit for your space.  

Practicality is also an important consideration for high-traffic entertaining spaces. Children around? Easy-clean yet elegant options like our vegan leather Stuttgart Dining Chair or Markson Dining Chair might be a smart choice. Prefer a more formal look? Opt for an elevated, high-back design, like the Palma Slipcover Dining Chair or Dalton Slipcover Dining Chair.

THE ART OF TABLE STYLING

Gather your finest china, silverware and linens and get ready to set the table. After all, no space is truly ready for entertaining without a beautifully styled tablescape. Start with a soft, neutral palette and tactile materials: a luxurious linen tablecloth, classic ceramics and delicate glassware.  

Once the foundations are laid, it’s time for styling. If you’re incorporating natural elements, consider the season. Flowers and foliage – such as eucalyptus, banksia and grevillea – add an Australian touch to an autumnal table setting. Arrange them as part of the table runner or tuck individual sprigs into napkins for a simple yet elegant place setting.  

Candles are an easy shortcut if you’re wanting to create a more intimate, cosy atmosphere – group them in twos or threes to create visual interest. And don’t forget the bar cabinet! Whether you choose a Scandi-inspired piece, like our Monopole Bar Cabinet, or something a little more glamorous, such as the Shimmer Bar Cabinet, it’s a sophisticated addition to any entertaining space, keeping the conversation flowing without the need for constant trips to the kitchen.