Eetkamers

Eetkamers are rooms in Dutch homes dedicated to shared meals. Traditionally they functioned as a separate dining space, distinct from both the kitchen and the living room, and were used for everyday meals as well as formal dinners.

Historically, the eetkamer reflected a home’s social status and organization. In larger houses, the room often had dedicated furniture such as a long dining table, chairs, a sideboard or buffet, and sometimes a china cabinet. Lighting tended to emphasize the table, with chandeliers or ceiling fixtures common in more formal setups. In many modern residences, especially smaller ones or open-plan layouts, the eetkamer is no longer a separate room but a designated dining area within an open space connected to the kitchen or living room (often referred to as an eetgedeelte or dining nook).

Design and furnishing typical of an eetkamer include a sturdy dining table, appropriately sized chairs, and storage for crockery and linens. Finishes range from traditional wood to contemporary materials, with lighting chosen to highlight the dining zone. Flooring is commonly wood, tile, or laminate, and walls may feature neutral tones or subtle decorative elements.

Contemporary trends favor multifunctional spaces where the dining area can adapt for daily meals, family activities, or hosting guests. The term eetkamer remains common in Dutch housing discourse, but in practice many homes blend dining functions with adjacent rooms through open-plan design.