SPACE 8 | THE DINING LOUNGE

2023 Junior League of Buffalo Designer Show House

A friary dining hall is a spaced designed for communal meals and gatherings, typically used by members of a religious community such as friars or monks. The atmosphere of a friary dining hall is often peaceful and contemplative, with a focus on gratitude and mindfulness. The tables may be long and narrow, made of wood or other natural material, and arranged in a way that promotes conversation and connection. Simple chairs or benches may be used for seating. A friary dining hall is a space designed to foster community, mindfulness and a sense of spiritual connectivity. Its simplicity and focus on communal values are intend to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all who enter its doors.

For this years Junior League of Buffalo Decorator’s Show House - Michael P Design chose to rethink the traditional Dining Room and update it for today’s modern living. The inspiration behind this one-of-a-kind dining area came from the communal living of the friars of St. Patrick’s. Understanding that modern families no longer have use of a formal dining room, we chose to blend the two worlds of formal design with a casual lounge like feel. The result is dining space that encourages large social gatherings, while offering little nooks for more intimate cocktail affairs.

It is with the help of the following collaborators that our room at this years Junior League Show House was possible: