Dining rooms are out ... Eat-in Kitchens are in. Today's lifestyle is informal, and with housing and energy costs as high as they are, reserving a room just for dining on special occasions doesn't make sense for most people. Besides, kitchens are larger today to accommodate all kinds of activities. When company comes, pretty linens and some candles instantly transform the everyday kitchen table into something special.

 

But size doesn't matter. As illustrated in Eat-in Kitchens, designers have found ways to make better use of space with island and peninsula designs, banquettes, and breakfast areas, as well as the time-honored family table.