Formal Dining Room

Green and pink could easily have been too sweet in this intimate, off-the-kitchen dining space. But by deftly combining pretty with practical, a feminine, not fussy, look was created. Here are the five essential elements for this space:

1. Lighting: The intricately worked chandelier and sconces (1950s pieces) were painted, rewired, and topped with pleated mini shades.

2. Fabric: Pretty print fabric -- featuring porcelain vessels and summer blossoms -- gives the room another whimsical touch while also providing a warmly neutral taupe-and-green backdrop.

 

3. Window treatments: The ornate window treatments are full, functional, and rich in detail. The room's panel draperies include contrasting botanical trim and custom-painted hardware.

4. Seating: Sage-green slipcovers with crisp white piping instantly updated and softened the curvy French dining chairs.

 

5. Personal touches: A passion for porcelain serving pieces is showcased in a carved pine corner cabinet (top photo, above). These pink and green pieces from the homeowner's collection inspired the vibrant color scheme in this dining space.

Shown here: Antique print fabric was stretched into three panels that hang as art over a serving buffet, with the florals complementing the roses, vases, magnolias, and urns among the cadre of charming images included in the print drapery fabric.

Resources: Like what you see in this story? As of 2005, the items featured in this story were available from these manufacturers. Wall covering Fulwood by Colefax and Fowler, drapery banding #J124F-03 Fenton Leaf in light green by Jane Churchill -- Colefax and Fowler, through Cowtan & Tout, New York City; 212-647-6900. Draperies, dining chair slipcovers custom design, drapery rod custom painted and glazed, chandelier shades, table Beth Easton Antiques, corner cabinet pine -- through Circa Interiors & Antiques, Charlotte; 704-332-1668. Rug -- Merida Meridian, Inc.; 800-345-2200; www.meridameridian.com. Fabric for slipcovers -- Kravet; 888-457-2838; www.kravet.com.