The traditional dining room, once a standard feature in many homes, is increasingly being repurposed, with nearly a quarter of homeowners having converted these spaces, according to research from insurance provider Aviva.
Historically, dining rooms became common from Victorian times, evolving from a single entertainment space to a designated area for eating as living room furnishings became more elaborate. By the 20th century, they were part of even modest homes.
However, the fashion for larger kitchens has shifted the social focus of mealtimes, leading many to cook and eat in the same space. Some homeowners are also knocking down walls to create bigger living rooms or kitchens, while others are converting dining rooms into gyms or home offices.
This shift began some time ago, with predictions in 2008 suggesting the dining room would be extinct by 2020. A study from that period indicated that over half a million homeowners planned to renovate by removing their dining rooms within the following 12 months.