Nothing beats a personal touch. Here are other reasons why you should consider custom furniture for your home.

5 Reasons You Should Buy Custom Furniture

Read our simple guidelines for a painless Thanksgiving holiday.

3 Quick Tips for Planning a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Dinner

In order to determine the right table size for your dining space, you need to answer three basic questions. Check them out here.

<p>You need to answer 3 basic questions:</p>
<p><em>How many people do you want it to sit?</em></p>
<p><em>What function will the dining table hold?</em></p>
<p><em>What is the size of the room?</em></p>
<h2>How many people do you want to sit?</h2>
<p>Are you feeding your family of four on a regular basis or do you need to sit more like 6 or 8 on a regular basis? The average family of four has a table that can sit at least 6 people. Sometimes a friend comes over or the grandparents drop in for a quick dinner. If your family is larger you are going to need a larger table that will seat more people. You may also want to consider how you eat your meals.</p>
<h2>How much space do you have to place a dining table?</h2>
<p>You need to consider a few factors. You need to fit dining chairs and have space to walk around when you put the table in the room. Are there other pieces of furniture that you need to fit? Is there other furniture in the room? You need a minimum of 36 inches around the table and your nearest object. Otherwise, it will be a tight squeeze if someone needs to get up and go to the bathroom during dinner. To have the space look more proportional to the space available you should consider 48 inches around the table and the closest objects. This creates a comfortable space to move around when people are seated and doesn&rsquo;t make the space look overcrowded.</p>
<p>How much space is too much space?? There is nothing worse than furniture that is oversized for the space but an undersized table can look just as awkward. You should have no more than 72 inches between your walls/objects and the table.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_right-table-size_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h2>What&rsquo;s the table function?</h2>
<p>Is your dining space meant to be an intimate gathering or are you looking for a large harvest table that will host the entire family including Uncle Bob and Aunt Sue that come in from Up North for the Thanksgiving dinner? To have comfortable conversation you need to be no further than 7 feet apart to be heard without raising your voice. If you are considering a round table or a square table you need to maybe one that is 8 feet wide might fit everyone what if you want them all the bit part of the conversation this might be a bit much. A longer table will allow for intimate conversation with more than just people to your left and right.</p>
<p>Does your table have the ability to expand in a space? You may want to consider getting a duo-function table. This type of table can expand for family occasions or dinner parties when you want to but also provides the more intimate everyday family dinners. This can be the best of both worlds when you have space to expand but don&rsquo;t want it all the time. There is more than one type of expansion table. The classic leaves that are added to the centre of the table are great as the leaves can often be stored in the table itself so you don&rsquo;t need to find another space to hide them or drag them up from the basement every time you have the need for a larger dinner party. A newer mechanism to the expansion is the butterfly leaf. This allows for table expansion with an easier mechanism for hiding the leaf and placing the leaf in the table. Another option to consider is the dining table with leaves that are added to the end. This is great for those rare occasions when you need more table but most of the time your regular table size is just fine. This type of table creates a smooth clean look all the time and just when you have extra guests you get a break in the table where the leaves the table connect.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_right-table-size_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><strong>Adding a rug?</strong></p>
<p>Make sure your rug fits the type of table you have, round, square, or rectangular. In general, follow the same shape as the table you have although a round table on a square rug can look proportionate, just as an oval table look great with a rectangular table but not so much with a square one. In general, your rug should be 30 inches longer than your table to allow comfortable movement of your chairs without being on uneven ground.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_right-table-size_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><strong>What about a bench?</strong></p>
<p>A bench provided extra seating for the events when you want to expand your table but can be used in other parts of the house when you don&rsquo;t need the extra seating. It also is great to tuck up under the table when you have limited space for seating but can be pulled out when you have a few extra guests that pop by with pizza and beer.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_right-table-size_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>

Determining the Optimal Table Size 

Whether you are looking for the ultimate gift for your father or husband, check out our tips for designing a space of his own.

Mancaves: Designing a Space of His Own

Here are some show-stopper centerpieces to integrate with your fall décor.

<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h2>For Inspo...</h2>
<p>Here are some ingredients for a show-stopping centerpiece.</p>
<h3>Pumpkins</h3>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_6.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_7.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_14.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_23.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_16.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_17.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_28.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h3>Fruits</h3>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_10.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_8.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h3>Foliage</h3>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_12.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_13.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_15.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_19.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_9.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h3>Bouquets</h3>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_11.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_5.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_29.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_25.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_26.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h3>Trays &amp; Pitchers</h3>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_24.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_20.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_21.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_fall-centerpieces_22.jpg" width="700" /></p>

"Easy as Pie" Autumn Centerpieces

Black is simple. It can create emotions and it can also create no emotion. Just like a chameleon, it can be whatever you want it to be and different to each person.

<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_black-is-back_0.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<p>Black is such a powerful colour. When combined with other colours or even simple white it can create a series of emotions. This is why black is used in all sorts of design elements to make an impact. Black is mysterious. Think of nighttime where all color and light are removed and as you move through the space there&rsquo;s that feeling you get of not knowing what you are stumbling upon and where it will take you. Black has been seen in men&rsquo;s suits, judge&rsquo;s robes and other uniforms for years, creating the symbolism of power and wealth.</p>
<p>Often, black is seen in high end design, creating feelings of richness and class. A dark evening dress in a rich black, where the woman wearing it appears elegant and intriguing. Every colour put next to black instantly pops off it. The high contrast creates the perfect backdrop to highlight any other colour with it. You often see black lettering on colour backgrounds or even the small shadow of black around white lettering used in graphic design just to make the letters pop off the page. Using all these design concepts, you see in fashion and graphics, you can then apply them to furniture and home design in the same manor to evoke certain feelings when creating your space. Black, because of the strong emotions it can evoke, is categorized&nbsp;as a hard colour. Sometimes black can also be used when creating a minimalist design.</p>
<p>Black, when combined with white, can also be used when creating simplicity. Black is simple. It can create emotions and it can also create no emotion. Just like a chameleon, it can be whatever you want it to be and different to each person.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_black-is-back_1.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h2>Trends to use Black in Home Design</h2>
<p><strong>The Black Wall.</strong> Black walls are popping up in a lot of design and they are amazing. The dark wall really makes a statement and takes your room to the next level. Whether you use a dark wall to create a dark mysterious atmosphere in your bedroom or create a feature wall in your office or dining room that creates a look of power and adds richness to a room, using black in this way is one of our favourite design features. These walls will stand the test of time and allow all the other elements of your space to become a feature as they stand out in sharp contrast against the wall. If you want to really add sophistication, add elements of gold like sconces and gold hardware. If you are creating a more minimalist design, use white and simple neutrals to really create that intrigue.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_black-is-back_2.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h2>The Black Leather Chair</h2>
<p>We see black leather as sexy and alluring. Often you see a black leather chair placed in a room to stand up against a soft neutral sofa. A large black chair in an office creates that powerful throne in the room where the person sitting upon it gets things done. Black leather home theatre seating creates the mood where you are about to have an experience and it&rsquo;s exciting the minute you see all the black leather in a row. Yes, it is practical for cleaning, but black is chosen because it disappears when the room goes dark and takes you to a new place where your surroundings are forgotten.</p>
<p><strong>How to Soften the Contrast</strong></p>
<p>When using black walls, you might not want that stark contrast so apparent. If this is the case, use warm woods and soft neutrals in pillows, blankets, and bedding to warm up the dark walls but still have that punch of black to create elegance. Black in a bedroom paired with these neutrals can make this space seem cozy at night with soft light on the walls practically disappearing while you have the warmth of the neutrals around you.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_black-is-back_3.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h2>Grounding with Black Accents</h2>
<p>By having black in your room, it creates a grounding effect. By having elements of black in your space it can easily tie the rest of your room together. A black lamp on your table with black picture frames and black handles from your kitchen can tie the whole great room together. Simple black sculptures or elegant plant stands will all be tiny accent pieces in your design, but at the same time make your space feel cohesive. Black is one of the simplest colours to use to ground your space and make your space feel cohesive. A little contrast compliments the neutrals or bright pops of colour in your space and is very pleasing to the eye.</p>
<p><strong>The Other Black Box in the Room</strong></p>
<p>Let&rsquo;s not forget a big black box in the room that most of us have for entertainment. Our TVs. They have come a long way from the old chunky box in the corner but a great way for them to seem like part of the room is to incorporate other black elements in the space. This giant black picture on your wall will no longer stand out in the room as your eye is drawn to other elements and not just the TV.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_black-is-back_4.jpg" width="700" /></p>
<h2>Black is Forgiving</h2>
<p>Black is a great colour that can be very forgiving when using it with design. You can build your design around your base of black and it doesn&rsquo;t matter what colours you mix it with, it all looks great. You can add little accessories to the room to really add some depth to the space. Any combination of metals work with black. You can use bronze, gold, rose gold or go silver and chrome. You can go really bold and mix all the metals together. Adding black wrought iron to the space in a kitchen or as accessories around the house make the space looked pulled together and textured without being overdone.</p>
<p>Whether you use a little black or a lot of black, it will continue to be a design colour element that will stand the test of time. Like that little black dress that is a staple in any wardrobe. It is versatile, easily glammed up with a bit of bling (gold, chrome, glass, or crystals) and low key and trendy (simple neutral colours mixed in or clean crisp white). You will find using black as part of your d&eacute;cor will really add dimension to your space without a whole lot of effort.</p>
<p><img src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/CN0169_black-is-back_5.jpg" width="700" /></p>

Black is Back

Default Dev Script Validation

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Default Header After Global Promotions

<avb-header-before>  <avb-designer-block data-id="28" class="avb-typography dsg-block-28-header-before"> <div class="avb-grid"> <div class="avb-grid__column avb-grid__column--small-12 dsg-tools-nop"> <div class="avb-wrapper dsg-block-28-header-before__content dsg-tools-main-paragraph"> <span class="fa-brands fa-canadian-maple-leaf dsg-block-28-header-before__icon"></span> Canadian-Owned Since 1995! Proudly Supporting Canadian&nbsp;Manufacturers.<span class="fa-brands fa-canadian-maple-leaf dsg-block-28-header-before__icon"></span> </div> </div> </div> </avb-designer-block> </avb-header-before> <style> /* ==================== Header-before (block-28-header-before) ==================== */ .dsg-block-28-header-before, .dsg-block-28-header-before__link, .dsg-block-28-header-before__link:focus, .dsg-block-28-header-before__link:visited, .dsg-block-28-header-before__icon { font-size: clamp(0.9rem, calc(0.9rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.1000)), 1rem); line-height: 1.25; color: #fff; transition: all 0.2s ease-in-out; } .dsg-block-28-header-before { text-align: center; padding: 0.25rem; background: #FF0000; } .dsg-block-28-header-before__icon { padding: 0 0.25rem; } .dsg-block-28-header-before__link:hover, .dsg-block-28-header-before:has(.dsg-block-28-header-before__link:hover) .dsg-block-28-header-before__icon { color: #fff; } .dsg-block-28-header-before__link:hover { text-decoration: underline; } .dsg-block-28-header-before:has(.dsg-block-28-header-before__link:hover) { background: #FF0000; } /*.dsg-block-28-header-before__location-mobile { display: block; } .dsg-block-28-header-before__hider-mobile { display: none; }*/ @media screen and (min-width: 600px) { /*.dsg-block-28-header-before__location-mobile { display: inline; } .dsg-block-28-header-before__hider-mobile { display: inline; }*/ } @media screen and (min-width: 960px) {} @media screen and (min-width: 1280px) {} @media screen and (min-width: 1600px) {} </style>

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