The holiday season is nearly over and dining rooms across the country have been pressed into service. How unfortunate that this room is so often overlooked until the frenzy of holiday entertaining is upon us.

What a waste of valuable square footage to have such an underutilized room in our homes. Perhaps it's time to rethink the dining room. Creating a space that not only looks lived in, but actually is lived in throughout the year is the key to a successful dining room. Dining rooms that are truly great can be dressed up or down. Pretty dishes, sparkling crystal, and luxurious linens will wow your guests, while everyday settings feel special when used in a new context.

Every dining room can and should be called upon to do double-duty, accommodating the most glamorous holiday fare, as well as the quiet Wednesday night family supper. Wouldn't it be great if your dining room was a place you wanted to spend every day, not just the so-called special ones? We hope these three wonderful rooms inspire you to make your dining room a place where you want to spend more time, even after the whirlwind of the holidays is over.

• Fundamental Style: Pared down to the basics, this dining room supplies the ideal ingredients for daily dining or something more special.
• Everyday Glamour: This glamorous dining room is perfectly suited to entertaining, but it's also a special place to gather for a simple family meal.
• Casual Comfort: Essentially laid-back, this room offers just the right amount of elegance and sparkle for both festive gatherings and everyday dinners.