One of the great debates in home trends right now is the need for, or lack of, a formal dining room. There was a time when no one would have even considered building a home without one. Then again, there was also a time when every house had a parlor. The truth is, many homeowners are remodeling their homes right now for the sole purpose of ditching the formal dining room. They say it’s a big waste and can think of a million different ways they’d rather use the space.
And many people today are building their custom homes sans a formal dining room. The argument is that a formal dining room is used very little — only for special occasions and holidays. So why not build an extra room in lieu of the dining area and use that space as a music room or a library? Better yet, the space could be convertible. Sure, it’s a den today, but it could easily become a nursery, playroom or guest room tomorrow.
Some homeowners say that instead of a dining room, they prefer a large, open kitchen with a semi-formal dining area to having a smaller kitchen and separate dining space. In fact, the current trend in kitchens is to maximize space — vaulted ceilings, lots of windows and islands with plenty of storage. And there is an effort to go green with energy-efficient appliances and flooring, such as bamboo. No need for the dining room when there’s plenty of room in the kitchen!
Interested in a floor plan that doesn’t include a formal dining room? Talk to your home builder about the options that are available.