These days, the definition of a ‘dining room’ can be challenged. With a trend for open plan living that seems to be here to stay, where we eat, and socialise has become far more important. Although that’s not to say we haven’t always used a dining space – quite the opposite. In years gone by, a ‘dining table’ and chairs would have been a special purchase for a separate dining room – kept for entertaining occasions throughout the year rather than the weekly dinner or supper time. And for those with the added luxury of that extra room, why not create a space to wow your guests with a touch of luxury and a splash of grown-up opulence? However, more recently, a shift in ‘where we eat’, with home layouts placing a central dining space as the hub of the home, rather than a separate entity, means our styles have changed in the process. That 21st Century catchphrase ‘kitchen/diner’ is used to describe how most of us structure our kitchen and eating areas, to allow modern life to flow more easily. A family friendly space is now something most of us crave, allowing us to multi-task during the week but also allow us a dining space large enough for family and friends to congregate around of a weekend. Relaxed, multi-functional living is now the name of the game, and at Leekes, we have the perfect selection of dining tables suited to your every need. Not only does the new Calligaris range mark the launch of the new Leekes Autumn Furniture range, but it celebrates serious Italian style that will set your home apart from the rest… A quiet corner If your kitchen space is too small to seat six or eight, but still has room for a smaller breakfast table, this Planet round table with four Jam chairs and weighted pedestal base (shown here with L’Eau chairs) is priced at £999, L’Eau Chair, £110 each; Staying in is the new going out… If you have the luxury of a separate dining space, why not break the mould and opt for an oval dining table? More sociable than a square or rectangular model, the Odyssey table and six New York chairs (shown with Philadelphia chairs), is the ultimate in modern sophistication, with a hardwood veneer base and tempered glass top. It also features an automatic opening system which allows it to be extended in a single fluid motion while maintaining the oval shape, priced at £3599, New York chair, £180; Stylish and practical If combing a designer look with everyday needs is top of your list, then the Baron extending table will tick every box. Made from a contemporary combination of 11mm thick laminated ceramic glass, it extends to 240cm with legs kept at the corners, so that when the need arises, you can seat up to ten guests at any one time, £1459, or with four L’Eau chairs (as shown) £1899; Open up For those open plan living spaces, where elegant dining is a must every day of the week, the Omnia extending table is the perfect family dining solution. Available in a veneer or lacquered finish, this combination shown with four Bess chairs is priced at £2329. For more information on your nearest Leekes store call 0845 050 8240 or log on to www.leekes.co.uk.