Classical dining tables are becoming less and less popular as more people choose to eat in modern, open-plan kitchens, it has been observed.Isabel Morton, a design columnist for the Irish Times, noted that many homeowners are now inclined to buy contemporary dining/kitchen tables which normally seat six but can be extended to accommodate up to double that number.Ms Morton set out a number of current interior design trends, arguing that vibrant colours have become increasingly popular despite the grim economic climate.Perversely, the fashion for all things minimalist and monochrome, which prevailed during the boom years, has changed and people are making busy, bright and colourful furniture, she said.However, Ms Morton added that cream - either in matt or high gloss - is still one of the best selling finishes for kitchens.In other news, ShelterPop.com reported this week that Avanti has developed a compact unit which squeezes a cabinet, kitchen sink, refrigerator and cooker into a space the width of an average kitchen stove.