It's been said before, but staying in is definitely the new going out, for the time being at least. So it makes sense to make our homes as comfortable, calm and as stylish as possible.
Our surroundings influence how we feel, so making them a priority will reap rewards – and with home cooking one of the top hobbies occupying us, having the right table and chairs will make mealtimes much more relaxing and enjoyable.
The style and size of our homes, the number of people in our household and the way we live will influence the type of table and chairs that is right for us. Thankfully the folks at Next have a host of gorgeous options from their new season collection to suit all tastes and family set ups.
To make life simpler, we've rounded up six of our favourite dining tables and chairs and who they most suit.
1. When dinner is always an occasion – the Solene table and Skyla chairs
A relaxed Sunday lunch, a birthday banquet or just gathering the troops away from their screens for an evening catch up. Whatever the event, if there's cause for celebration in your house – albeit without the extra guests in these extraordinary times – the Solene table and Skyla chairs are for you.
The brass frame of the Solene and the brass legs of Skyla ooze glamour and this set brings a sense of sophistication that will make every mealtime special.
Buy now: Solene dining table, £599, Next
Buy now: Skyla dining chairs £224,
Also shown: Angular dining set, £55; Nova Gin Glasses, £14 (2 pack); Nova Champagne Flutes, £14 (4 pack); Bea Oriental rug, from £75; Artist Collection canvas, £70, all Next
2. Those with pre-schoolers - the Jefferson table and bench set
Still have young tots at the sticky fingers stage? This simple Scandi look would work well for you.
The open ended Jefferson dining table with its sturdy metal frame would easily accommodate a high chair, while the rough-hewn wooden surfaces and bench seating can cope with any spillages and will be back to their best with a quick wipe.
Buy now: Jefferson dining table and bench set (white), £650, Next
Also shown: Kempton 12-piece dinner set, £28; Woven nest of tables £99, both Next
3. Empty nesters – the Adelaide table and Josie chairs
Grown-up kids left home already? Fancy something sophisticated and sociable for every day dining that won't leave you rattling around?
The circular Adelaide dining table and the Josie upholstered dining chairs are just the ticket. The warm neutral tones and shapely forms give this dining table and chairs an elegant yet relaxed feel that will take you from morning tea and toast to your evening tipple.
Buy now: Adelaide dining table, £575, Next
Buy now: Josie chair, £160, Next
Also shown: Hutton 12 piece dinner set, £28; Tahiti Easy Fit Shade, £38, both Next
4. The growing family – the Skandi table and benches
Offspring sprouting up another few centimetres every term? Want space for them to sit and do their school work? A modern dining set with flexible seating is your best bet, such as the oval Skandi table made from solid Beech.
Team it with the matching Skandi benches for family mealtimes and homework supervision or pair it with the smart Zola chairs with their plush pink velvet upholstery for dinner à deux when the kids are tucked up.
Buy now: Skandi dining table, £499, Next
Buy now: Skandi bench, £199, Next
Buy now: Zola chair (set of two), from £180, Next
Also shown: 12 piece angular dinner set, £55; Bronx mono berber rug, from £50, Osaka pendant, £45; Blossom canvas, £60, all Next
5. Young adults soon to fledge the nest – the Sunburst table and Cole chairs
If the cut and thrust of family life has slowed down and you're starting to consider life on your own again, it's time to treat yourselves to a table and chairs that will elevate everyday dining to something special.
The Art Deco appeal of the Sunburst table with its striking inlay surface and rich Mango wood hues does just that. Dress it up with the sumptuous black Cole chairs, and dining at home will be your first choice for years to come.
Buy now: Sunburst dining table, £650, Next
Buy now: Set of 2 Cole dining chairs, £224, Next
Buy now: Sunburst Sideboard, £525, Next
Also shown: Peyton set of four pasta bowls, £22; Large round mirror, £135; Peacock floor lamp £130, all Next
6. Starting out – the Sandham table and bench
The timeless appeal and rustic nature of the trestle-look Sandham table will take you from your first home to many more. Made with reclaimed timber, its simple wooden style would suit many types of interior and decorating updates.
Add Bistro chairs and it comfortably seats four – or to seat more opt for the Sandham bench, so if your family grows the dining set can grow with you – and still take pride of place in your dining room.
Buy now: Sandham dining table, £499, Next
Buy now: Sandham bench, £199, Next
Buy now: Bistro chairs (set of two) , £178, Next
Also shown: Nova Rim 12-piece dining set, £25; Herringbone wall clock, £50; Faux Fur rug, from £35; Malvern tumblers, £14 (4 pack), all Next
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