Whether it’s with family, friends or colleagues, the owners of this Encinitas home love to host large gatherings – which wasn’t easy in the small, isolated space that served as their formal dining room.  They yearned for a roomy but elegant space for sit-down affairs but one that would allow guests to easily circulate between the dining room, kitchen and backyard during pool and BBQ weather.

We converted the large, rarely used living room into the owners’ “dream” dining room. Arched doorways define the space; a double-arched entryway separates the dining room from the front entry door, creating a cozy foyer and a subtle transition into the new space. Topped with crown molding and trimmed with indirect lighting, the arches create a dramatic focal point for the room day or night.  Square “cutouts” position high on the wall between the dining room and kitchen visually connect these spaces and shower the room with lots of indirect sunlight. Built-in cherry cabinetry and granite counters blend function and design, providing an attractive buffet area as well as storage for wine and tableware.