In a world that’s constantly on the go, carving out time to sit down together as a family is becoming increasingly rare, but it’s never been more important.
Whether it’s a Sunday roast or a midweek pasta night, mealtimes around the dining table offer more than just nourishment – they’re a chance to reconnect with the people you love most.
A recent study by Oak Furnitureland reveals that many people are feeling increasingly disconnected from those they live with – with nearly a quarter (23%) saying they hardly ever, or never, sit down together around the table to eat as a family.
Why? Well, it’s perhaps unsurprising when three-quarters (75%) admit to eating dinner in front of the television most nights. And although catching up on our favourite shows is, for many, a way to unwind in the evening, it doesn’t foster conversation or connection in the same way.
When it comes to family time more specifically, the same study also found that 37% of parents say their teens often eat in their bedrooms – a scenario that many families will find familiar.
But, despite these habits, more than half of respondents (53%) agree that talking over the dinner table is important to them. And with 44% admitting they’d love to connect more with their family at mealtimes, the question is: how do we make that happen?
The first thing to remember is that mealtimes aren’t just about the food. They’re about the setting, the atmosphere, and the intention behind gathering – whether as a family or a group of friends.
From choosing the right table to setting the mood with lighting and décor, creating a welcoming dining space can transform everyday meals into meaningful moments. And with the rise of open plan living and multifunctional furniture, it’s easier than ever to make your dining area both stylish and practical.
To help families make the most of their mealtimes, we’ve teamed up with cookery writer and chef, Melissa Hemsley, to share five simple but powerful tips for turning dinner into quality time:
- Get everyone involved from the start
“The ritual begins before anyone sits down – from laying the table to putting out some simple nibbles like chopped veggies and a dip. When everyone plays a small part, it turns the meal into something lovely you’ve created together, rather than a job that falls to one person. I always say busy hands make for happy hearts – when people are chopping, pouring, or carrying plates, they’re already engaging and preparing to spend time together.” - Make a plan together
“Once a week, sit down as a family and sketch out a rough meal plan. It doesn’t need to be fancy – just ideas everyone can pitch in on. It helps with budgeting, reduces stress after a long day, and means everyone feels invested in what’s coming to the table. And when people have had a say in what’s being cooked, they’re more likely to look forward to it and enjoy eating it together.” - Create a calming environment
“Phones, laptops, even the dog begging under the table – they all distract from what should be your moment to connect. Instead of strict bans that can cause more stress, gently set things aside and focus on making the atmosphere pleasant. Play some gentle music, light a candle, or simply clear away the day’s clutter. A calmer table makes for happier conversation – and even better digestion.” - Cook once, eat twice
“Plan meals that roll over into the next day – a curry that tastes even better reheated, or a big pot of sauce that can become pasta one night and a pie filling the next. I call these ‘leftovers on purpose’. They don’t just save money – they make life easier. Who doesn’t love less faff in the kitchen after a long day? Knowing you’ve got something delicious ready to go means you’re more likely to sit down together again, rather than grabbing something separately or skipping dinner altogether.” - Eat a little earlier when you can
“Bringing mealtimes forward, even slightly, means everyone arrives at the table with more energy and time to unwind afterwards. It’s about flexibility – finding the slot that works for your family stage of life – but eating earlier can make the evening feel calmer and less rushed.”
Elena Mellowes, Head of Buying at Oak Furnitureland, comments: “It’s clear from the survey results that even though life can be incredibly busy, and ever-changing, people still value having the time to sit together around the dinner table and enjoy real connection with friends and family.
“At Oak Furnitureland, we believe in the importance of prioritising time together, and doing what we can to avoid the little distractions of everyday life. That’s why every table we craft comes with a Lifetime Furniture Guarantee, ensuring they are built to last; not just for meals, but for memories.”
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply catching up over a cuppa, the dining table remains one of the most important places in the home. So why not make it a priority?
