The Best Dining Room Decor Styles and Ideas
Looking to transform your dining room into a space that oozes with style and personality? Look no further! In this article, we'll delve into the world of dining room decor and share the best tips, tricks, and ideas to help you create an inviting and visually stunning dining area. From infusing niches with color to adding a personal touch, we've got you covered. So, get ready to dive into the world of the best dining room decor and turn your space into a true masterpiece.
Infuse Niches With Color
Add Color to Niches
Decorating wall niches in your dining room is a simple task, but you can make them stand out even more by adding a wallcovering. In a dining room in Virginia, designer Joe Ireland used handmade tissue wallcoverings by Twin Diamond Studios in the niches. These wallcoverings create an elegant backdrop for decorative plates.
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Bold Vitality
Laurey Glenn
Janie Jones and Elizabeth Miles, the dynamic duo behind Hundley Hilton Interiors, often say that their contrasting personal styles make them a powerful design team. In the dining room of Jones's Birmingham cottage, they used midcentury chairs by Pierre Cardin and a fruitwood table by The CEH to add a touch of edge to the floral patterns on the walls.
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Mix and Mingle
Brie Williams; Styling by Kate Malpeli
A mix of mid-century modern and Southwestern pieces come together for an eclectic style.
Take Your Cue from the Natural Surroundings
Laurey W. Glenn
Drawing inspiration from its mountainous location, this house is adorned with various natural materials, such as rough-hewn beams and rustic furniture made from branches.
Emphasize Architectural Details
Andreas von Einsiedel
Highlight architectural features by using paint. The pastel green walls draw attention to the intricate design elements of the woodwork.
Use Large Pieces
Designer Caroline Brackett wanted to avoid creating a dark and cramped dining room, so she chose to decorate it with large pieces. This includes an 8-seater round dining table, a large mirror above the fireplace, and tall curtains to create the illusion of a larger space.
Layer Neutrals for a Relaxed Look
Laurey W. Glenn
"To give Country French my minimalist spin, I avoid the expected ruffles and plaids and focus on painted antiques and white linens," says homeowner and designer Regina Lynch. Along with her daughter, designer Destiny Lynch, they achieved a "less-is-more" style by layering neutrals.
Limit Materials for Minimalism
Tria Giovan
In this dining room, the white stained table and modern white chairs embody a minimalist vibe.
Lighten Up with White
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
Brighten up a dining room with white paint and ample natural lighting. To add warmth, incorporate furniture and accessories, such as using books in built-ins and vintage chairs upholstered in canvas.
Add Pattern with your China
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
Let your china be the focal point of the room by showcasing its color and pattern. This approach ensures a classic style that isn't overly done.
Accent with Patterns
Photo: Melanie Acevedo, Styling: Olga Naiman
Introduce a touch of playfulness to an elegant space by incorporating playful patterns. The zebra upholstery on these dining chairs adds a jazzy touch to an otherwise subdued room.
Create Privacy with Pocket Doors
Photo: Tria Giovan, Styling: Olga Naiman
Achieve the free traffic flow of an open plan and the intimacy of a closed dining room by using sliding pocket doors. In this room, reclaimed heart-pine pocket doors can be closed to hide the kitchen.
Hang Plush Drapery
Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Lindsey Ellis Beatty
The scenic wallpaper and repetition of blues in this cheery dining space tie together modern and old-school elements. Luxurious curtains hung near the ceiling add grand scale to the room.
Keep It Stylish & Practical
Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
In this Nashville home, the dining room serves as a pass-through between the living room and kitchen. Designer Ashley Gilbreath decorated the space to complement both areas, using a playful, soft wallpaper and traditional furnishings that will always remain stylish.
Make it Durable
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Matthew Gleason
Choose dining room materials and surfaces that are spill-proof and easy to clean. For example, these chairs are upholstered in durable outdoor fabric to withstand spills.
Go For a Darker Hue
In this 1920s Tudor home designed by Catherine Branstetter, the dining room features a warm, antique-style lantern that replaces a grand chandelier. The designer chose Farrow & Ball’s Inchyra Blue (No. 289) to create a mercurial hue that complements the space's abundant natural light and highlights an original arch detail.
Color Your Furniture
Alison Gootee; Styling: Matthew Gleason
Give your dining room an energy boost by incorporating colored furniture. In a renovated 1960s rancher, designer Meg Kelly painted a vintage rattan table blue to brighten up the dark paneled room.
Mix Color and Style
Photography Van Chaplin, Charles Walton IV / Styling Buffy Hargett
You can mix different furniture styles as long as you maintain a consistent color scheme. In this dining room, red lacquer bamboo-style side chairs add a bold pop of color that coordinates with the cabinet interiors, drapery, and upholstery fabrics.
Go Neutral
Even if you prefer neutral colors, you can still create a striking dining room. This mostly neutral dining room uses a variety of fabrics and rich browns punctuated by small colorful accents to achieve a warm and inviting look. The abundance of natural light prevents the dark brown walls from visually closing in the space.
Vary Your Finishes
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn, Styling: Matthew Gleason
Create a casual look by using mixed finishes. In this dining room, painted chairs are paired with a round mahogany dining table. The mix of finishes on various furnishings in the room provides a collected yet casual appeal.
Wrap in Wood
Photo by: Helen Norman, Styling by: Rebecca Omweg
Think beyond drywall for your walls and ceiling. This dining room features wood finishes throughout, including a warm wood ceiling and floor treatment paired with painted wood walls, adding vintage character to the space.
Hang a Lantern
Choose a lantern fixture for a more casual look. Instead of a grand chandelier, the designer opted for a wrought-iron lantern fixture that complements the laid-back atmosphere of this dining space.
Hip Seaside
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French Flora
Lisa Romerein In this French-American villa in Los Angeles, designers Brooke and Steve Giannetti strategically placed the formal entertaining spaces, including the dining room, at the front of the home with easy access to outdoor terraces. The woodland wall mural by Maria Trimbell and mossy green velvet upholstery by Colefax and Fowler create a connection to the outdoors.
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Use a Calming Palette
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
Create a serene space by covering the walls with subtle blue grass cloth. To add warmth, incorporate blush window treatments and slipcovered chairs.
Create a Relaxed Look
Photo by: Tria Giovan, Styling by: Matthew Gleason
Analyze the dining room's traditional formality and consider adopting a more casual feel. Mix high-back upholstered seating with low, slipcovered chairs for a less predictable look.
Select a Signature Style Item
Include at least one unique conversation piece in your dining room. Choose a whimsical light fixture to become a focal point that reflects your personal design sense.
Plan Ahead for Flexibility
Photos by Jean Allsopp
Maximize flexibility by adding shelves. A wall of library shelves enhances the cozy cabin feel of this dining room and offers the option of converting the space into an office or reading nook.
Include Family Pieces
Photo: Erica George Dines
Showcase family heirlooms in your formal dining room to create fantastic conversation pieces. For example, this dining room features a portrait of the homeowner's late mother, who taught her how to entertain with style.
Historic Simplicity
Photo: Helen Norman
Create a clean and modern look in your dining room that maintains privacy and tranquility.
Multitask
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn / Styling: Anne Turner Carroll
Transform your dining room into a multi-use space. In this cozy room, a large dining table doubles as a work surface, allowing the homeowner to use it as a design office. Just make sure you have storage space to stow away your work when needed.
Take Advantage of the View
Photo: Alexandra Rowley
If you want to highlight the view outside of your dining space, keep your furnishings and accessories minimal. Position your dining table in front of floor-to-ceiling windows and use simple curtains to soften and frame the space.
Add a Personal Touch
From the chandelier above the dining table, interior designer Sara Hillery suspends ornaments that were handed down from her mother. This adds a personal touch to the space and enhances its character.
Set Up a Combination of Seating Arrangements
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
Create a casual vibe in your everyday dining space by using a combination of seating arrangements. For example, a mix of wing chairs, a curvy settee, and burlap-topped benches can encircle your dining table.
Find The Fun In Floral Touches
This elegant dining room embraces whimsy with floral elements from Pomegranate Inc.'s tableware collection. Classic details such as the chandelier, crown molding, and brilliant blue accents allow for endless possibilities when setting the table.
Make a Small Dining Room Look Larger
Laurey W. Glenn
Visually expand a small dining room by keeping the palette monochromatic and incorporating height through large art pieces or plants. Opt for a narrow table and armless dining chairs to maximize space. All of these elements contribute to an airy and open feel in this light-filled dining room.
Opt for Casual Seating
Paul Costello; Styling: Howard Christian
Transform your dining space into a library and casual dining area. Use a mix of mismatched table and chairs along with brightly painted bookshelves to bring light into the space.
Add Built-In Bookshelves
Photo by Erica George Dines
Create a beautiful patterned backdrop for your dining table by incorporating rows of books in built-in shelves. The repetitive shape of the arches can tie the room together.
Fit for a Statesman
Thomas Loof Les Ensembliers reimagined an urban Montreal chapel into an art-filled penthouse for a former prime minister. The main living space was divided into three sections, including a corner dining area for formal entertaining. The light from the majestic antique crystal chandelier reflects onto the showstopping painting by Larry Poons.
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Rustic Iron and Wood Dining
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
Create a relaxed and rustic dining room by surrounding a Queen Anne dining room table with iron and wood chairs crafted by Charles Calhoun.
Go Coastal
Carmel Brantley
Use a banquette to maximize a small dining space and create a cheery and tropical feel. Pair shades of greens with pops of coral and grounding neutrals.
Include a Dose of Tradition
PHoto: Laurey W. Glenn
When decorating a breakfast room in an early-1900s Richmond, Virginia, home, honor the original architecture and character of the space while accommodating a young family.
Be Playful
Peter Murdock; Styling: Liz Strong
Create a breezy yet sophisticated outdoor dining room with wicker seats, a vintage peacock chair, and a montage of blue-and-white pillows.
Give a Splash of Bold Color
Photo: Eric Piasecki, Styling by Heather Chadduck Hillegas
For a fresh-feeling dining room, choose a show-stopping, shiny lacquer lettuce green shade for the walls. Complement the walls with bright coral upholstered dining chairs. Painted lantern sconces enhance the welcoming atmosphere, while antiques ground the space.
Play With Multiple Patterns
Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Create a unique and memorable dining room by combining colorful wallpaper panels with cheetah print chairs.
Embrace Practicality
Annie Schlechter; Styling: Raina Kattelson
Opt for an extendable farm table paired with lightweight wooden chairs to accommodate a crowd.
Make an Entrance
Laurey W.Glenn
Frame your dining room with a delicately patterned wallpaper featuring a trompe l'oeil chair rail to create a preppy and coral-hued atmosphere.
Color Your Furniture
Alison Gootee; Styling: Matthew Gleason
Infuse energy into your dining room by incorporating colored furniture. For a renovated 1960s rancher, the designer painted a vintage rattan table blue to brighten up the dark paneled room.
Hang Plush Drapery
Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Lindsey Ellis Beatty
Incorporate a scenic wallpaper and repetition of blues to create a cheerful dining space. Hang luxurious curtains near the ceiling to add grandeur.
Double Up
Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Page Mullins
Create a cohesive look by using the same fabric for both the wallcovering and window treatments.
Use a Mural to Set the Mood
Designer Molly Williams embraced the history of her home to design a dining room inspired by Williamsburg. She used a mural by Anewall to create an abstract, modern interpretation of a classical oil-painted version. The mural complements the vintage tone and decor of the room.
Mix New Finds with Family Heirlooms
Photo: Tria Giovan
Enhance your family pieces with furniture found at antique and secondhand stores. For example, pair flea-market-found barrel chairs in white with a great-grandfather's dining table and sideboard made of dark oak.
Design for Durability
Photo by: Laurey W. Glenn, Styling by: Elizabeth Demos
When selecting finishes for your dining room, consider durability beyond spills. A white oak plank flooring with a limed finish is perfect for disguising sand brought in from the beach. A clear wax on top keeps it sealed and long-lasting.
Utilize Corner Spaces
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn, Robbie Caponetto
Maximize corner spaces by creating a dining nook in a window-filled alcove. Use a casual table, slipcovered end chairs, and a pillow-topped banquette to make the most of the small space. Built-in seating and a wall of windows give the illusion of a larger area, while vintage light fixtures hung with nautical rope illuminate and ground the space.
Decadent Details
MAX KIM-BEEDinner is always a decadent affair in the Georgia of Furlow Gatewood. In the dining room, a medley of antiques from John Rosselli Antiques starts their own history conversation. The tole leaf wall ornaments were designed by Gatewood.
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Keep it Simple
Robbie Caponetto; Styling: Kendra Surface
Keep the design simple by framing windows with a pop of color and installing a farm table with casual high-back chairs in the dining room of the 2020 Idea House.
Enhance the Ambiance with Linens
Photo by: Laurey W. Glenn
The fabric of your linens can make a big difference in creating the desired atmosphere for your dining space. By using simple linen and checked fabrics to cover a round table and antique chairs, a welcoming and friendly ambiance is created. The chairs and table topper feature a delicate scalloped edge, adding a decorative and layered touch.
Install a Shelf for Plates
A built-in shelf can break up a vertical space and provide a designated area to display plates and other decorative accents.
Create a Cozy Nook
Winnie AuIn this dining area of a Brooklyn home designed by Office of Tangible Space, the lime-washed walls contribute to a cozy atmosphere, making every meal feel like a picnic.
Incorporate a Built-in Bench
If you have limited space, consider built-in banquette seating. Not only does it provide extra seating, but the space beneath the seat can also be utilized for storage. Using the same upholstery fabric for the bench and chairs helps create a cohesive look.
Emphasize Height with Vertical Stripes
Vertical stripes can draw attention to the height of your dining room. Floor-to-ceiling windows also contribute to a lofty and light feel, even when paired with dark furnishings.
Pair Antiques with Modern Touches
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
By combining antiques with modern elements like gold-lined black shades on the chandelier, you can infuse your dining room with a more personal touch.
Create a Stylish and Family-Friendly Space
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
A clean-lined Parsons table serves as the anchor for this sophisticated yet family-friendly dining room. Galvanized-metal French Tolix chairs and a long bench add flexibility and style to accommodate a large family.
Choose a Cohesive Color Scheme
Photography: Laura Moss, Styling: Natasha Louise King
To create a harmonious look in connected spaces, it's important to tell a cohesive color story. The dining room wall color was custom mixed to match the blue undertones of the curtains in the adjacent living room.
Opt for Oversized Lighting
Design by Chango & Co. / Photo by Raquel Langworthy
In this spacious dining room, three large pendant lights suspended from the beam above the 12-seat table create a sense of intimacy and add a stylish focal point.
Create a Cozy Banquette
Frank Frances StudioFor a combination of a banquette and a traditional table, consider incorporating both. This approach, as seen in a Brooklyn project by Ishka Designs, allows for a cozy dining experience.
Add Character with Salvaged Wood
Photo by: Helen Norman, Styling by: Rebecca Omweg
Using salvaged wood can add a unique warmth and texture to your dining room. The locally salvaged wood floors in this dining room create a distinctive look.
Hang Striking Wallpaper
Design by Leclair Decor
In this coastal San Francisco dining room designed by Leclair Decor, black-and-white wallpaper with a soft modern graphic element adds texture and preserves the open and airy feel of the space.
Create a Conversational Atmosphere
Nathan SchroederAccording to Corey Damen Jenkins, his regal dining room at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas is all about fostering meaningful conversations. The sapphire tent adds a "wow factor" while providing great acoustics.
Add a Floor Mirror
Decorating with mirrors in the dining room can add depth and visual interest. A tall, gold-trimmed floor mirror leaning against the wall reflects natural light and enhances the perception of space.
Create an Entertaining Space
Paul CostelloTo differentiate the dining room in the Faulkner House Books living quarters, designers Bill Brockschmidt and Courtney Coleman painted it in a deeper shade of blue. This mid-tone shade carries over onto the cushions of the chairs.
Add Built-In Storage
Design by Leclair Decor
Built-in storage cabinets in a contemporary sideboard wall can maximize storage space while providing a sleek and organized look.
Take Advantage of the View
Photo: Alexandra Rowley
If you have a beautiful view outside your dining space, keep your furnishings and accessories minimal to highlight it. Simple curtains can soften and frame the space.
Choose Airy Light Fixtures
Design by Chango & Co. / Photo by Raquel Langworthy
Suspended Danish wood pendant lights add a natural and semi-transparent sculptural element to a light-filled dining room, creating a voluminous and airy atmosphere.
Go for Colorful Chairs
Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Erin Kelly
In a sunroom dining room with wraparound windows, adding a set of buttercup yellow chairs can infuse the space with a pop of color and a sense of fun.
Choose a Neutral Palette
Even without bold colors, a neutral dining room can still be visually striking. Multiple fabrics and rich browns complemented by small colorful accents create a warm and inviting look. The natural light prevents the dark brown walls from making the space feel cramped.
Mix Upholstery for Variety
Frank FrancesIf you like the idea of mixed dining chairs, using the same chair in different colors and finishes can provide a cohesive yet varied look. In this dining room by Cortney and Robert Novogratz, different neutral fabrics and wood finishes were used for the chairs, creating an interesting visual contrast.
Coordinate Drapes and Tablecloth
To create a cozy atmosphere in the dining room, consider using a natural linen tablecloth that matches the window treatment fabric. This Scandinavian dining room from Fantastic Frank showcases this approach.
Plan for Flexibility
Photos by Jean Allsopp
Adding shelves to your dining room can provide greater flexibility. They can contribute to the cozy cabin feel while offering the option to convert the space into an office or reading nook.
Design for All Occasions
Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Page Mullins
To strike a balance between formal and casual, pairing a farm table with wicker chairs creates a versatile dining room that can accommodate various occasions.
Create a Gallery Wall
Design by Velinda Hellen For Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
A gallery wall featuring a mix of modern and vintage prints can add a fresh and modern feel to a dining room. Combined with a set of French bistro chairs, it creates a space that feels timeless yet contemporary.
Repeat a Motif
The whimsical botanical wallpaper in this dining room is echoed in the organic shapes of the chandelier, while the chair upholstery features a subtle zig-zag pattern that is mirrored in the rug.
Incorporate an Arched Buffet
Adding an arched buffet painted in a feel-good shade of pink can infuse your dining room with a touch of nostalgia. Floating shelves matching the warm tones of the chairs and table provide additional storage and display space.
Mix Black and White with Pale Wood
Design by Forbes Masters
Combining a chunky blond wood dining table with striking black chairs and decorative accents creates a modern and sleek look. Black tapered candlesticks of varying heights add interest and prevent the table from feeling stark.
Add a Corner Banquette
Design by Alvin Wayne
To create a cozy and intimate feel, consider adding an olive green corner banquette to your dining room. Pair it with a round table, a few chairs for extra seating, and wallpaper featuring tropical leaf patterns for an earthy and inviting atmosphere.
Embrace Retro Style
Adding a vintage wood and glass front china cabinet to a modern dining room can bring nostalgic vibes. Combined with a sculptural round table, a simple globe pendant light, and rattan chairs, it creates a neo retro look.
Create a Tasting Room
Ngoc Minh NgoIf you're a wine enthusiast and lack space for a separate cellar, consider incorporating wine storage into your dining room. Built-in cubbies along one wall can provide storage and maintain a cozy atmosphere.
Select Appropriate Lighting
Choose a light fixture that suits the scale of your dining room. A large rustic chandelier can match the personality and size of a lofty dining space.
Opt for a Round Table
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Barbara Schmidt
A round table can encourage conversations and create a more intimate dining experience. In a dining room with multiple doorways, a round table can also help open up space.
Create a Relaxed Look
Photo by: Tria Giovan, Styling by: Matthew Gleason
Even in a traditionally formal dining room, you can achieve a more casual feel. Combining high-back upholstered seating with low, slipcovered chairs breaks away from the expected formula of matching chairs and table.
Utilize Bench Seating
Design by Kara Mann
If space is limited, consider adding a bench on one or both sides of the dining table. This reduces visual clutter and eliminates the need to constantly move chairs, as seen in this historic farmhouse renovation in Westchester County, New York by Kara Mann.
Mix and Mingle
Brie Williams; Styling by Kate Malpeli
Embrace an eclectic style by combining mid-century modern and Southwestern pieces in your dining room.
Add Classic Wainscoting
Incorporating classic wainscoting around the perimeter of the room adds a touch of history to a Swedish country dining room from Fantastic Frank. Sparse decoration on a picture ledge maintains a modern look.
Go for an Eclectic Retro Look
Combining vintage elements like a wood and glass front china cabinet with modern design elements can create an eclectic retro look. A sculptural round table, globe pendant light, and rattan chairs complete the aesthetic.
Transform Into a Wine Tasting Room
Ngoc Minh NgoFor wine enthusiasts without a separate cellar, consider utilizing your dining room as a wine storage area. Built-in cubbies along one wall can provide space for your collection, as seen in this room designed by Pam Schneider and Pospisil & Brown Architects.
Consider Scale
Choose a lighting fixture that complements the size of your dining space. A large rustic chandelier can add personality to a lofty dining area.
Enjoy a Round Table
Encourage intimate conversations by opting for a round dining table. Keep the table diameter under 40 inches to create a cozy atmosphere. Round tables can also help open up space in dining rooms with multiple doorways.
Create a Cozy and Relaxed Look
Photo by: Tria Giovan, Styling by: Matthew Gleason
Don't be afraid to create a relaxed atmosphere in your dining room, even in traditionally formal spaces. Mixing high-back upholstered seating with low, slipcovered chairs adds a touch of informality to the room.
Utilize Bench Seating
Design by Kara Mann
In narrow or limited spaces, consider incorporating bench seating on one or both sides of the dining table. This reduces visual clutter and provides a convenient seating solution, as demonstrated in this renovation by interior designer Kara Mann.
Hang Floor-to-Ceiling Drapes
Design by Tyler Karu
This dining room designed by interior designer Tyler Karu is warm and inviting. It features honey-colored wood tones, leather seat covers, a dramatic woven pendant light, and a homey table lamp with a warm fabric shade set on the sideboard. The pale butterscotch-colored floor-to-ceiling drapes add coziness and provide both light control and privacy. They are particularly useful for evening dinner parties or if your dining room is visible from the street.
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Celebrate Midcentury Style
Design by Jenn Pablo Studio
This sunny California dining room designed by Jenn Pablo Studio mixes warm wood, natural sheepskin, a vintage metal pendant light, and a round midcentury modern style dining table. It also incorporates plenty of greenery and flowers both inside and outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a chic and laid-back space for meals, drinks, card games, and conversations with a timeless midcentury modern appeal.
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Go For a Darker Hue
In lieu of a grand chandelier, the designer chose a warm, antique-style lantern from Visual Comfort & Co.
In designer Catherine Branstetter's 1920s Tudor home, the dining room was the perfect place to experiment with a mercurial hue. She used Farrow & Ball’s Inchyra Blue (No. 289) and sees it as "its own little jewel box,” she says. The contrast, which benefits from the space’s abundant natural light, also plays up an arch detail original to the home.
Choose a Mural Wallcovering
Frank FrancesTell a story or make a bolder impact with a mural wallcovering, like this one called Menagerie Chinoiserie in a custom colorway by Voutsa. Designer Courtney McLeod included a table with an acrylic topper and chairs in performance velvet that “shimmers and adds glam."
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Add a Coffee Bar
Blogger Annie Diamond from Most Lovely Things added a self-serve coffee bar station adjacent to her dining room. This setup is convenient for morning coffee and after-dinner espressos, and it helps free up space in the adjacent kitchen. Open storage and floating shelves house mugs, table linens, and other essentials.
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Make Room for a Kids' Table
Roger DaviesKids' tables can certainly be cozy and chic. Just take it from the small seating area in a California home's dining room designed by Alexandra Loew. Situated in the bay window, the setup serves as the kids’ table during big gatherings.
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Embrace Minimalism
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Christy Q. Photo
Cathie Hong Interiors created a soft minimalist San Francisco dining room with clean lines and warm wood tones. From the herringbone floors to the dining table and chairs, the design reflects her clients' Asian heritage and love of Danish design inspired by a trip to Copenhagen.
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Add Sculptural Elements
Design by Atelier Davis / Photo by Heidi Harris
Interior designer Jessica Davis of Atelier Davis added a set of dining chairs upholstered in matching blue ultrasuede, which creates a formal look for this dining room space. But she styled it for off-duty days with a voluptuous glass vase filled with branches and a collection of small sculptural objects on the table. These elements carry over to the sideboard, which is styled with books and art on the walls.
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Panel Discussion
Douglas Friedman
To add a sense of history to this Sonoma, California, estate, designer Ken Fulk covered the dining room walls in ornate timber paneling and set a large 19th-century French table in the middle. The wood features a silvery finish, and the table is topped by feathery fronds to keep the look from getting too heavy.
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Add Drama With an Accent Wall
This dining room designed by Michelle Berwick Design is defined by a multicolored flower bomb accent wallpaper wall. It serves as a conversation starter and a mood booster that's easy to achieve and simple to change out when it's time for something new. The same wallpaper is used in the adjacent breakfast nook to tie the spaces together.
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Add a Quirky Chandelier
Dining room pendant lighting can be used to anchor the table, define the space in an open area, add ambient light, or start a conversation. This Scandi dining room designed by Fantastic Frank has classic black wood spindle back chairs, a simple white table, and a playful pair of wineglass chandeliers that are quirky and fun.
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Add a Living Wall
Design by Maite Granda
This Florida dining room designed by Maite Granda has a floor-to-ceiling living wall that brings some scene-stealing, feel-good outdoor vibes into the contemporary space. If you don't have the budget for a floor-to-ceiling green wall, adding plants or a preserved moss wall hanging will create a similar if less dramatic effect.
Make It Cozy
Design by Ryann Miller For Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
This small dining room designed by Ryann Miller For Emily Henderson Design is located just off of the kitchen, making it a pass-through space. While it can be a mistake in a small space to push the furniture against the wall, in this case it makes sense since the table is set for two most days. And on those occasions when there are more people at the table, it can be pulled away from the wall and floated in the center of the room to provide space for extra seating.
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Mix Upholstery
Add textural depth by mixing upholstery fabrics. These dining chairs sport patterned upholstery cushions while the backs are covered in a coordinating solid.
Keep It Traditional
Design by Nile Johnson Interior Design
This dining room from Nile Johnson Interior Design is a lively take on traditional style. It mixes soft pistachio green wall paint with a crystal chandelier, a red and blue toned vintage rug, antique carved wood sideboards, and a mix of comfortable upholstered chairs in shades of blue and white. The result is a well-appointed and memorable spot for gathering with friends and family.
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Go Coastal
Carmel Brantley
Designer Kara Miller opted for a banquette to make the most of her small dining space. She paired shades of greens with pops of coral and a few grounding neutrals to give the room a cheery and tropical feel.
Cozy Cove
Winnie Au
Everyday’s a picnic in this mealtime niche in a Brooklyn home designed by Office of Tangible Space. Lime-washed walls accentuate the coziness.
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Build a Banquette
Built-in banquette seating is a great option if you're short on space. It not only adds seating, but the space beneath the seat can also be used for storage. Using the same upholstery fabric helps tie together the bench and chairs.
Double Up
Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Page Mullins
Designer Sarah Bartholomew used the same fabric for the wallcovering and window treatments to create a cohesive space.
Hang Plush Drapery
Laurey W. Glenn; Styling by Lindsey Ellis Beatty
The scenic wallpaper and repetition of blues tie modern and old-school together in this cheery dining space. Luxurious curtains hung near the ceiling give grand scale to the room.
Select for Scale
Select a light fixture that fits the scale of your space. A large rustic chandelier fits both the personality and size of this lofty dining space.
Take Advantage of the View
Photo: Alexandra Rowley
If you want to highlight the view outside of your dining space, keep your furnishings and accessories minimal. This dining table is centered in front of a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows with simple curtains to soften and frame the space.
Fit for a Statesman
Thomas Loof
Les Ensembliers reimagined an urban Montreal chapel into an art-filled penthouse for a former prime minister. The design team divided the main living space into three sections, including this corner dining area where more formal entertaining happens. Light from the majestic antique crystal chandelier reflects onto the showstopping painting by Larry Poons.
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Gustavian Glamour
Kelly Marshall
On the menu? Elegance. And we wouldn’t expect anything less from Lauren Buxbaum Gordon, Nate Berkus’s design partner. For this recent New York project, she surrounded an antique Gustavian dining table with a set of French Louis XVI–style dining chairs. The look is topped off with a pendant by Rose Uniacke.
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Add an Unexpected Detail
Kelly Marshall
Designer Keita Turner livened up the dining room in this Brooklyn apartment by giving it unexpected details, like one mismatched chair out of four and a geometric mural that plays nicely with the burnt orange walls that surround it.
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Use Different Upholstery
Frank Frances
If you like the idea of mixed dining chairs but still appreciate cohesiveness, use the same chair in different colors and finishes. Here, design duo Cortney and Robert Novogratz added the same chair in different neutral fabrics and wood finishes to the 12-foot-long dining table in their West Village home.
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Incorporate an Arched Buffet
This built-in buffet with an arched opening from A Beautiful Mess is painted in a feel-good shade of pink. Thick wood floating shelves that match the warm tones of the dining room chairs and table are lined with a collection of tableware, and the sideboard is a nice spot for flowers and setting out dishes for family-style eating or as a dessert bar.
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Add a Personal Touch
From the chandelier above the dining table, interior designer Sara Hillery suspends ornaments handed down from her mother to add a personal touch to the space.
Layer Window Treatments
Mix your window treatments for flexibility. Matchstick blinds with curtain panels control the level of light and privacy in this dining room.
Emphasize Architectural Details
Andreas von Einsiedel
Highlight architectural features with paint. The pastel green walls draw attention to the design elements of the woodwork.
Go Retro
This vintage wood, glass front china cabinet from A Beautiful Mess adds some nostalgic vibes to a modern dining room and houses a collection of colored glassware. A sculptural round table, a simple globe pendant light, and rattan chairs complete the neo-retro look.
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Select a Signature Style Item
Have at least one unique conversation piece in your dining room. A whimsical light fixture becomes a focal point over this dining table and speaks to the design sense of the homeowner.
Dressed To Impress
ALISON GOOTEE; Styling by Dakota Willimon
Layers, textures, and mixing old with new are the secret sauce for this spectacular tablescape. The space features a vintage table and cane chairs she scored for a song at a local thrift store. The table is complemented by an Amanda Lindroth tablecloth, Cailíní Coastal wicker place mats, Addison Ross lacquered blue chargers, and Ginori 1735 plates.
Keep It Stylish & Practical
Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
In this Nashville home, the dining room serves as a pass-through between the living room and the kitchen. Designer Ashley Gilbreath decorated the space to complement both areas. She used a playful, soft wallpaper with traditional furnishings that will feel stylish forever.
Design for Durability
Photo by: Laurey W. Glenn, Styling by: Elizabeth Demos
When selecting your finishes, think about the wear and tear that your dining room may experience beyond spills. The white oak plank flooring with a limed finish in this coastal cottage dining room is perfect for disguising sand tracked in from the beach. A clear wax on top keeps it sealed and hardy.
French Flora
In Los Angeles, the French-American villa designed by Brooke and Steve Giannetti features a dining room that is conveniently located at the front of the home, allowing easy access to the outdoor terraces. The room is adorned with a woodland wall mural by Maria Trimbell and mossy green velvet from Colefax and Fowler, creating a seamless connection to the natural surroundings.
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Use a Mural to Set the Mood
Designer Molly Williams took inspiration from Williamsburg to design the dining room in her home. She chose a mural from Anewall that adds an abstract, modern twist to the classical oil-painted versions. The mural complements the vintage tone and decor of the room.
Repeat a Motif
The whimsical botanical wallpaper in this room is mirrored in the organic shapes of the chandelier, while the zig-zag pattern of the chair upholstery is repeated in the rug.
Plan Ahead for Flexibility
Photos by Jean Allsopp
To enhance the cozy cabin feel of this dining room, shelves have been added to provide greater flexibility. These shelves not only add character but also offer the option of converting the space into an office or a cozy reading nook.
Use a Calming Palette
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
The walls in this dining room are covered in a subtle blue grass cloth, creating a serene atmosphere. Blush window treatments and slipcovered chairs bring warmth to the space.
Go Coastal
Carmel Brantley
Designer Kara Miller utilized a banquette to maximize the small dining space. The room is adorned with shades of greens, pops of coral, and grounding neutrals, evoking a cheery and tropical ambiance.
Take Your Cue from the Natural Surroundings
Laurey W. Glenn
This house, located in a mountainous area, showcases a variety of natural materials such as rough-hewn beams and rustic furniture made from branches, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Create Privacy with Pocket Doors
Photo: Tria Giovan, Styling: Olga Naiman
For a free traffic flow combined with the intimacy of a closed dining room, sliding pocket doors have been installed. These reclaimed heart-pine pocket doors on one side of the room can be closed to hide the kitchen.
Add Character with Salvage Materials
Photo by: Helen Norman, Styling by: Rebecca Omweg
The wood floors in this dining room have been salvaged locally, adding a distinct warmth and texture that cannot be replicated with new wood.
Include Family Pieces
Photo: Erica George Dines
Formal dining rooms are perfect for displaying family heirlooms. In this elegant dining room, a portrait of the homeowner's late mother, who taught her how to entertain, takes pride of place.
Add a Modern Touch
Jonny Valiant; Styling: Elizabeth Demos
To incorporate a modern touch, the dining room features a vintage dining table paired with a deconstructed rug and Windsor chairs.
Make a Small Dining Room Look Larger
Laurey W. Glenn
In order to visually expand a small dining room, a monochromatic palette has been used, along with the addition of tall art or plants to create height. A narrow table and armless dining chairs have been chosen to maximize space, giving the room an airy and open feel.
Hang Oversized Lighting
Three large modern pendant lights have been suspended from the beam in this spacious dining room, creating a sense of intimacy and comfort for guests.
Continue to 20 of 50 below.
Hang a Gallery Wall
Design by Velinda Hellen For Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
This dining room designed by Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design has a fresh modern feel with its white walls and natural materials like wood and rattan. The gallery wall, featuring a mix of modern and vintage prints, along with the French bistro chairs, gives the space a timeless appeal.
Continue to 6 of 50 below.
Mix Color and Style
Photography Van Chaplin, Charles Walton IV / Styling Buffy Hargett
Incorporating a mix of furniture styles can be done successfully by keeping color as a constant. In this dining room, red lacquer bamboo-style side chairs add a bold pop of color that coordinates with the cabinet interiors, drapery, and upholstery fabrics.
Add a Contemporary Fireplace
Jamie Padgett
To bring warmth to the dining room, a contemporary fireplace has been installed. The sleek design adds a modern touch to the room, while the additional candles on the dining table enhance the ambiance.
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Hang Graphic Wallpaper
Design by Leclair Decor
In this coastal San Francisco dining room designed by Leclair Decor, black-and-white graphic wallpaper has been used to create a soft modern element. The wallpaper complements the white shiplap-clad vaulted ceilings and the neutral color palette, preserving the light and airy indoor/outdoor feel.
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Go For a Darker Hue
Instead of a grand chandelier, a warm, antique-style lantern from Visual Comfort & Co. has been chosen for this dining room. The designer, Catherine Branstetter, experimented with a mercurial hue by using Farrow & Ball’s Inchyra Blue (No. 289). The deep blue shade creates a jewel box-like effect, especially with the abundance of natural light in the space, highlighting an original arch detail.
Install a Plate Rail
To break up the vertical space in this dining room and create a display area, a built-in shelf in the form of a plate rail has been incorporated.
Hang a Lantern
For a more casual look, a wrought-iron lantern fixture has been chosen over a standard chandelier in this laid-back dining space.
Build a Banquette
Built-in banquette seating serves as a space-saving solution in this dining room. It not only adds seating but also offers storage space underneath. The use of the same upholstery fabric on the bench and chairs creates a cohesive look.
Deck Out the Ceiling
Design by Christina Kim Interior Design / Photo by Raquel Langworthy
The reclaimed wood ceiling detail in this dining room adds warmth, texture, and a surprise element, contrasting with the white shiplap walls. Shiny gold pendant lights provide a striking contrast to the dark wood tones, while fluffy seat covers draped on the chairs create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
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Incorporate a Corner Banquette
Design by Alvin Wayne
To create a cozy and intimate feel in this NYC dining room, an olive green corner banquette has been added. The space is completed with a round table, a couple of chairs for additional seating, and large-scale tropical leaf wallpaper in earthy brown and green shades.
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Choose a Mural Wallcovering
Frank Frances
A mural wallcovering called Menagerie Chinoiserie, in a custom colorway by Voutsa, has been used to tell a story and make a bold impact. The dining room also features a table with an acrylic topper and chairs upholstered in performance velvet, adding a touch of glamour.
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Build in a Bar
Design by Raili CA Design / Photo by David Tsay
This handsome black, white, and blond wood dining room from Raili CA Design features a floor-to-ceiling built-in bar that is both functional and decorative. The open shelving displays bottles and glassware, adding a touch of interest to the space.
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Add a Living Wall
Design by Maite Granda
To bring outdoor vibes into this contemporary dining room, a floor-to-ceiling living wall has been installed. If a full living wall is not feasible, incorporating plants or a preserved moss wall hanging can achieve a similar effect, albeit on a smaller scale.
Focus on Texture
Tessa Neustadt
To create a warm atmosphere in the dining room, textured accents such as wicker Roman shades and a handwoven rug have been utilized. The overall look is kept simple with patterned curtains in neutral colors and wood accents, achieving a cozy and inviting ambiance.
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Add a Living Wall
Design by Maite Granda
This Florida dining room features a floor-to-ceiling living wall, bringing a touch of the outdoors into the contemporary space. If a floor-to-ceiling green wall is not possible, incorporating plants or a preserved moss wall hanging can still create a similar effect, albeit on a smaller scale.
Deck Out the Ceiling
Design by Christina Kim Interior Design / Photo by Raquel Langworthy
To add warmth, texture, and a surprise element, a reclaimed wood ceiling detail has been incorporated into this dining room. The dark wood tones are contrasted with shiny gold pendant lights, while fluffy seat covers draped on the chairs create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Continue to 23 of 50 below.
Use Bench Seating
Design by Kara Mann
For narrow or limited spaces, incorporating a bench on one or both sides of the dining table can reduce visual clutter and make it easier to pass through. This historic farmhouse renovation in Westchester County, New York, features a bench alongside a round table, providing additional seating while maximizing space.
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Plan Ahead for Flexibility
Photos by Jean Allsopp
Adding shelves to a dining room can enhance its cozy cabin feel while providing greater flexibility. In this room, a wall of library shelves offers homeowners the option of converting the space into an office or a snug reading nook.
Choose a Wall-to-Wall Rug
Design by Becca Interiors
Opting for a wall-to-wall rug can anchor a dining room and set the tone for a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. In this farmhouse-inspired Southhampton surf retreat, a nearly wall-to-wall striped rug creates a cohesive look.
Continue to 11 of 50 below.
Make It Pink
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10
Wrap in Wood
Photo by: Helen Norman, Styling by: Rebecca Omweg
In this dining room, the walls and ceiling are completely finished with wood, adding a vintage character to the space.
Hang a Lantern
For a more casual look, a wrought-iron lantern fixture has been chosen over a standard chandelier in this laid-back dining space.
Hang a Gallery Wall
Design by Velinda Hellen For Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
To create a fresh and modern feel in this dining room, white walls and natural materials like wood and rattan have been used. The addition of a gallery wall, showcasing a mix of modern and vintage prints, along with French bistro chairs, adds a timeless touch.
Continue to 6 of 50 below.
Select a Signature Style Item
Introducing a unique conversation piece in the dining room can add personality to the space. In this room, a whimsical light fixture becomes the focal point while reflecting the homeowner's design sense.
Take Your Cue from the Natural Surroundings
Laurey W. Glenn
In this mountainous location, the house has been designed with a variety of natural materials, including rough-hewn beams and rustic furniture made from branches, harmonizing with the natural surroundings.
Plan Ahead for Flexibility
Photos by Jean Allsopp
Adding shelves to a dining room enhances its cozy cabin feel while providing flexibility. In this room, a wall of library shelves offers homeowners the option of converting the space into an office or a snug reading nook.
Add a Floor Mirror
In this light-filled dining room, a tall, gold-trimmed floor mirror has been leaned against the wall, reflecting both natural light and the light cast from the large central chandelier. This mirror also creates the illusion of more space by increasing sightlines.
Continue to 17 of 50 below.
Install a Plate Rail
To break up the vertical space in this dining room and create a display area, a built-in shelf in the form of a plate rail has been incorporated.
Choose a Wall-to-Wall Rug
Design by Becca Interiors
In this farmhouse-inspired Southhampton surf retreat, a wall-to-wall striped rug has been chosen to anchor the space and set a relaxed yet stylish tone.
Continue to 11 of 50 below.
Hang Oversized Lighting
Three large modern pendant lights have been suspended from the ceiling beam in this dining room, creating a sense of intimacy and comfort for guests.
Continue to 20 of 50 below.
Use a Calming Palette
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn
In this dining room, the walls are covered in a subtle blue grass cloth, creating a serene atmosphere. Blush window treatments and slipcovered chairs add warmth to the space.
Add Character with Salvage Materials
Photo by: Helen Norman, Styling by: Rebecca Omweg
The wood floors in this dining room have been salvaged locally, adding a distinct warmth and texture that cannot be replicated with new wood.
Make a Small Dining Room Look Larger
Laurey W. Glenn
To visually expand a small dining room, a monochromatic palette has been used. Large art or plants have been added to create height, while a narrow table and armless dining chairs maximize space, giving the room an airy and open feel.
Choose a Transparent Light Fixture
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Margaret Austin Photo
In this light and airy dining room, a glass bubble chandelier with blown glass globes of varying sizes and heights adds light over the dining table. The transparent fixture keeps the focus on the room's clean lines, warm wood tones, and expansive views of the outdoors.
Continue to 13 of 50 below.
Keep It Stylish & Practical
Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller
In this Nashville home, the dining room serves as a pass-through between the living room and kitchen. The space has been decorated to complement both areas, featuring a playful, soft wallpaper and traditional furnishings that will endure in style.
Go Coastal
Carmel Brantley
A banquette has been chosen to maximize the small dining space, giving it a cheery and tropical feel with shades of greens, pops of coral, and grounding neutrals.
Incorporating these tips and ideas into your dining room decor will transform it into a space that is not only visually stunning, but also inviting and functional. Whether you prefer bold colors and eclectic patterns or a more minimalist and serene atmosphere, there are endless possibilities to suit your style. From utilizing architectural details to adding personal touches and taking advantage of the natural surroundings, you can create a dining room that is both stylish and practical. So go ahead, get creative, and make your dining room the ultimate gathering spot for family and friends.
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