Dining

To help ensure you're on the right track in buying furnishings for the dining room or dinette of your dreams, the American Furniture Manufacturers Association offers these shopping tips:

• First decide on the tone of the room. Do you want formal elegance or casual comfort?
• Think about the number of people who normally dine with you. Are you more comfortable with a small set so a few people can easily talk, or do you need a large table with plenty of room for family and friends?
• Basic pieces for a well-equipped dining room are generally a table and chairs, a china cabinet for display and storage and a sideboard or buffet for serving and additional storage.
• The dining table and chairs serve as the centerpiece of the room – this is a good place to start.
• When shopping, look underneath the table to see how it is supported – four legs, pedestal, trestles – you want something that will be comfortable for you and your guests when seated.
• Dining tables can be constructed of wood, metal or natural or cast stone, often with a glass or stone top.
• Most materials also are offered in a variety of finishes, from light to dark. Examine the finish by rubbing your hands across the top and sides. Is it smooth?
• Be sure to take a seat in the dining chairs and sit back for a while. Wiggle the backs, legs and arms. Do they feel sturdy? Are they comfortable?