Explore the new Canadian Living dining room
This story was originally titled "Gather Round" in the November 2010 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!
Whether it's at home or at work, a comfortable place to congregate over good food and conversation is a must. Designer Jane Lockhart of Jane Lockhart Interior Design and senior designer Margaret Macdonald of AyA Kitchens and Baths teamed up to take on a challenge for Canadian Living: to create a comfortable, somewhat private dining spot, separate from the hustle and bustle of the Canadian Living Test Kitchen, yet not too secluded from the rest of the magazine's offices. The result is an intimate dining area that's accessible and big on function, style and flexibility. No one is more delighted than editor-in-chief Susan Antonacci. "Not only can we use the room for tastings, but we can also entertain Cook of the Year participants, guest foodies and clients."
This combined kitchen and dining space will provide a comfortable atmosphere for meetings and corporate functions, too. Its condo-like feel offers a casual environment, free of distraction. "Many of our clients want to connect with the Canadian Living Test Kitchen," says publisher Lynn Chambers. "I think it's wonderful that we have a new space where we can showcase what we're so good at, and that's the food we develop in the Test Kitchen."
Focal points
Sharp's super-thin and sleek Aquos LED television can be set on a stand or mounted on a wall. The digital high-definition Aquos Blu-ray Disc Player makes the viewing experience complete.
An electric fireplace was built into the cabinetry beneath the Sharp Aquos LED television, and a mantel was created with a Cambria natural quartz countertop. "A fireplace adds a cosy feel and invites people to come together," says interior designer Jane Lockhart. By adding her signature touch of drama with a burst of colour on the wall (Sico's Jawbreaker), Lockhart turned the fireplace into the focal point in the room.
Lighting
Sconces are ideal for rooms with limited space for floor lamps. These light fixtures from Union Lighting and Furnishings cast a soft glow that instantly adds warmth to the room.
Window treatment
Levolor's Accordia Cellular Shades (we used black) offer light-filtering and roomdarkening options. They help soften incoming light to create a perfect ambience for formal occasions. These cordless shades use a hidden pulley system – simply pull up on the handle to open and push down to close. Levolor's Sheer Efficiency technology reduces energy costs because it blocks out cold air and allows natural sunlight to help heat the room.
Expert TV placement tips
You found the perfect spot for your new television. But is it the right size? Here's a quick tip from the experts at Sharp on how to pick the right TV for your room. Measure the distance between the spot your TV will go and where viewers will sit. Divide this distance in half to determine the best screen size for your space. For example, if your couch is seven feet (84 inches) from the wall where you're going to place your TV, the optimal screen size is 42 inches.
