244   SELECTION OF FURNITURE
Dining-Room Pieces. Dining rooms have usually been dull
and monotonous in the past partly because the furniture for them
was sold only in manufacturers' suites. Original combinations,
which have replaced sets to a great extent, consist of pieces that
agree in scale and in general character but have interesting dif-
ferences.
Dining-room chairs need not be like the table, nor do they need
to be alike. For example, a pair of peel tub armchairs or other
reed, bamboo, or Mexican chairs may be combined with wooden
chairs. Armchairs may be placed at the two ends of the table.
All dining-room chairs should be padded or upholstered for com-
fort. As chairs receive hard wear, they should be selected for
strength as well as appearance. The dining table is the piece to
economize on if funds are low. Painting an inexpensive table a
positive color is sometimes advisable. A rectangular table is
thought to be better looking than a round one, which is, however,
easier to serve.
An outstanding piece of wall furniture is frequently the center
of interest in a dining rooni. The person who desires a distinc-
tive room does not now buy the usual sideboard or china cabinet
except possibly for a period room; corner cupboards, tall cup-
boards, hutches, dressers, cabinets, hanging shelves, or a built-in
wall of cupboards are more interesting. See pages 10, 60, and 106.
A dining room also needs a serving table, which should ordinar-
ily be an inconspicuous piece. A large screen sometimes hides the
door into the kitchen. A combination dining-sitting room may
have for dining chairs three different pairs of comfortable chairs.
Bedroom Pieces, Comfort and personal preference should
guide the selection of bedroom furniture. Beds should be the
most comfortable that one can afford. A well-made inner-spring
mattress and box spring are essential. New types of mattresses
such as the rubber sponge and air-cooled mattresses should be in-
vestigated before buying. Single beds are recommended, even
though they cost almost as much as the double, in order that
everyone can sleep alone. Bed frames are available in all styles
and prices; however, they are often omitted. A four poster is
shown on page 302. Dressing tables of plastic, metal, or wood are
possibilities. A chest of drawers, an easy chair, a side chair, an
upholstered stool, a bench, and a large bedside table are useful.