STARTING POINT Try to create a dining area that reflects your personal style and works with the architectural style of your home, and consider whether you want a casual atmosphere or whether a more elegant look is in order. The table is the main focal point of a dining room, so carefully consider the shape and size of the room when choosing it. A round table looks good in a square room, and a long table works well in a long, narrow room. ARRANGEMENT Be sure to place the dining table in such a way that traffic flows smoothly around it. Usually the table is put in the center of the room, with enough space along the walls for a sideboard and a hutch. Try to leave at least two feet of space between chairs for ease of movement, and you may want to consider high-back chairs if the room has a high ceiling.  Let the tablecloth hang at least 12" to 25" inches on each side of the table, and the wicks of any candles should be above or below eye level. If you have to put a long table in a small space, try the glass-topped one, which will appear to take up less visual space.  FORMAL  In a formal setting, either traditional or contemporary styles work well. Symmetrically arranged furniture defines a formal setting, and it also gives a sense of balance. Finishes like glass, brass, crystal, and silk are commonly used in a formal room. An elaborate crystal chandelier adds an elegant touch. Place a beautiful centerpiece, try a flower arrangement flanked by a crystal or silver candelabra.  As for the other pieces in the room, sideboard with a large painting or a framed mirror above it works very well. Placing interesting pieces of china or silver pieces on the table or on the sideboard is another elegant touch. Lighting also plays an important role in this room, and lights with a dimmer switch allow you to set just the right mood, and when it comes to wallpaper, large and symmetrically balanced patterns are the traditional choice. CASUAL As a general rule, for an informal décor you'll want to choose rough textures like wicker, iron, pine and rattan. Try to avoid glossy and smooth finishes. The more weathered a piece of furniture or even an accessory is, the more informal feeling it gives. Try to mix and match the furnishings-use a set of matching chairs with a table of a different material, for example wicker chairs with wooden tables. Cover up a table with a long tablecloth that reaches the floor. Cover the chairs with cotton plaid fabric and hang an iron chandelier overhead. Cotton tablecloths, woven runners and chair cushions make a dinning room more approachable. COLOR Cool colors like beige, grey, sage green and light blue are very soothing, and you can add extra warmth with warm-colored accessories-or vice versa. And don't be afraid to use bright colors: Red, for example, can perk up a room and give it a lively atmosphere. But remember to contrast bright colors with liberal use of white, for harmony. If you choose to have wallpaper, florals tend to look good in a casual or country setting.