How to Arrange Dining Furniture, Set Tables & Serve Meals

How to arrange a dining room varies with the size of the room and the type of table. The dining room should have as much extra space as possible to make it easier to move in the room when people are seated at the table. Serving the meal after arranging the room is a simple process. The way to approach the table varies with the kind of food offered. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Arranging the Table

1

Position the table under any overhead lighting fixture in the room. This centers the table and also gives the room a cohesive feel.

2

Position the table so that each person moving around the room has enough space to access his seat easily, even if other people are seated at the table. A distance of 18 inches from walls when people are seated is sufficient. Make sure all seats have easy access to room exits.

3

Use a square or rectangular table for smaller dining rooms. This enables you to use bench seating set against a wall to maximize space. Move out any items that clutter up the room or make it difficult to maneuver around the table to another room or location.

4

Place a sideboard inside the dining room if you have the space. This can act as an easy-access serving piece throughout the meal and is a useful place to put dishes after everyone has been served.

Serving Meals

5

Give every guest all of the utensils and dishes necessary for the meal before the meal starts. Forks go on the left with the fork to be used first on the outside edge. Knives and spoons go on the right side. The bread plate goes to the left of the main plate and the glass goes on the right. Bowls go on top of the dinner plate.

6

Keep items that guests will use frequently on the table. Bread, butter, sugar and drinks should be in reach of the guests. If you do not have space on the table, you can set these items on a side board or on a small table set up close to the main dining table.

7

Approach guests from the left when serving food on a large platter. If you are serving a plate of food, approach from the right. This is the traditional method for serving food and it allows the guests to access food in the best way possible.