As a new year begins, I love turning to my favorite designers to see what’s ahead – what trends we’ll leave behind and what’s poised to surprise us. When it comes to entertaining, Shea McGee’s top design predictions for 2026 point to one thing: fancy tablescapes. I don’t know about you, but I’m more than ready to embrace a little extravagance this year.

'While I don't love the word "trend", I do think there are details that keep design feeling fresh,' explains Shea in a recent video. 'I've identified ones that are still rooted in tradition and are very much a part of our new heritage aesthetic.'

Plenty of design elements receive honorable mentions in the video, from dark wood to silver accents and blue tones – but tying it all together is the 'fancy tablescape' look, which Shea has named one of the biggest table decor trends of 2026. It's part of what she calls the 'Hollywood cottage' aesthetic, and it's about to bring plenty of old-world glamor to dining spaces this year.

My favorite designers aren’t just trend followers – they set the trends themselves. Shea McGee has done exactly that with the 'Hollywood cottage' look. It perfectly captures all of her 2026 predictions, creating what she calls an 'elegant and curated' aesthetic. Translated to tablescapes, that means antique-inspired pieces, paired with silver serveware and sumptuous linens, for a look that feels effortlessly luxurious.

Naturally, there's plenty of inspiration to be found at McGee & Co, from the vintage-inspired Artois silver flatware set to a wonderfully glamorous clamshell serving dish and 3-tier glass serving tray. It looks like the tableware in my hosting closet is about to get a Hollywood-inspired makeover – and I can't wait to channel the 'fancy tablescape' trend at my future dinner parties. If you're keen to do the same, you can shop a selection of my favorite McGee & Co pieces below.

Shop Shea McGee's 'Fancy Tablescape' Look at McGee & Co

For those seeking further inspiration from leading designers, Shea McGee has also unveiled her top kitchen trends for 2026 – all focused on cultivating spaces that are timeless, inviting, and effortlessly sophisticated.

If there's one room in your home that could probably do with a bit of care and attention in 2026, it's the dining room. Often overlooked and underused, a few simple swaps and changes can bring this social room back to life and turn into a space you want to spend time – especially if you take inspiration from this year's dining room trends.

Whether you have a large dining room or a small nook within your kitchen, there are designs and features to suit. And according to designers, there are a few looks they predict will be most coveted in this year's interior trends.

From playful patterns to blending dining with other functional rooms, these are the dining room trends to know about in 2026, and how to make them a reality in your home.

8 Dining Room Trends for 2026

There's been a noticeable shift back towards dedicated dining rooms compared to past years, when it was all about open-plan. As such, the trends for these rooms have changed significantly. Whether you're looking for a new dining room layout or simply want to breathe new life into your previously unloved scheme, these are the trends to take inspiration from.

1. Architectural Warmth and Old-World Craftsmanship

There's a real focus on architectural interest in dining rooms as we head into a new year, creating depth and interest in these rooms that are designed for people to spend extended amounts of time in. It's a trend that reintroduces character and tactility to rooms that have often lost those striking details.

'Dining room trends in 2026 will lean toward richer, more architectural environments. Think paneled walls, plaster finishes, walnut tones, statement millwork, and warm, layered lighting,' says interior designer Rebekah Murphy of Murphy & Moore Design.

'As open-concept homes shift back toward defined spaces, the dining room becomes a place of ceremony again. Homeowners are craving depth, character, and materials that feel storied. Architectural detailing makes the room feel both grounding and elevated. A setting designed for intentional gatherings.'

2. Statement Lighting with Softer, Warmer Illumination

The way we approach dining room lighting is shifting in 2026. It's more about warmth and ambiance than bright lighting that fills the room with a stark glow. And layered lighting is key.

'Chandeliers in aged brass, linen, alabaster, or sculptural forms, paired with layered lighting from picture lights or sconces, are becoming central to the dining experience,' says Rebekah, whose firm designed this scheme to feature multiple light sources with statement fixtures.

'Warm lighting transforms the emotional feel of the room. People want dining environments that feel intimate, flattering, and atmospheric. The chandelier becomes both sculpture and ambiance, setting the tone for how the room is used.'

3. Playfully Patterned Schemes

The formality of the traditional dining room is out, with more characterful, personality-filled designs taking their place. This dining room trend is about creating a joyful, uplifting room to gather with guests and showcase your favorite art and decor.

'I think we’ll see a move towards high-octane, playful and joyful dining rooms, full of pattern, texture and depth. These spaces lend themselves beautifully to personality – they’re wonderful rooms for hanging unique collections, whether that’s plaster casts, art, or even collections of boats,' says interior designer Octavia Dickinson.

'Because dining rooms aren’t used every day, people are keen to make them feel special, with bolder choices such as glossed walls, wallpaper and playful artwork,' she adds. In this design, a bright, floral dining room wallpaper is layered with vintage framed art, creating a characterful scheme.

4. The Rise Of Casual Dining Nooks

Not every home has the space for a dedicated dining room, but casual nooks in the kitchen, living room, or multi-functional zones will continue to trend. Think charming little eat-in areas and comfortable dining nooks.

'I'm seeing less of large formal dining rooms and seeing more casual dining areas or breakfast nooks. I love being able to create a space that is both comfortable, functional, and aesthetically interesting. A smaller space can feel cozier and make the most of a home that has space constraints,' says Yena Jung, of By Yena Designs.

Natasia Smith and Sandy Baisley, co-founders of Re-Find, have also highlighted this trend. 'Built-in seating paired with smaller bistro or café-style tables, particularly in kitchen nooks, is becoming increasingly popular. These setups encourage casual, everyday togetherness and allow family members to gather in the same space even if everyone isn’t seated at once,' they explain.

5. Hallway Dining Rooms

There's an old-school dining room trend making a comeback in 2026, and it's not one you might have expected, or even ever heard of. Hallway dining rooms were favored by those with large entryways, especially for easy hosting, and it's a look some designers say will be returning this year.

'I also think the hall-dining room, which I’ve always loved, will become much more prevalent again. The hall-dining room is a particularly clever solution: it creates a sense of occasion without dedicating a rarely used room solely to dining,' says Octavia.

'I have one in my own house, and it’s always my favourite place to host – lit with candles, a fire going, and the kitchen next door acting as a practical serving space,' she adds.

Here, the dining table has been placed at the center of the entryway. It can be used as a display table, and then transformed into a dining space when needed. This only really works if you have a large hall or entryway, but it effectively utilizes an otherwise underutilized space.

6. Rooms that Blend dining with Other Functions

In a similar vein, dining rooms will be mixed with other functional rooms in 2026, transforming them into something more loved and utilized. Think dining merged with a home library, or even a fun-filled games room tied in.

'We see the rise of the truly multi-purpose dining room continuing well into 2026. As homes prioritize efficiency and flexibility, especially in smaller footprints, dedicating an entire room solely to formal dining no longer makes sense for many families,' says Natasia and Sandy.

'Instead, dining spaces are being layered with functions: libraries, work-from-home zones, built-in storage, and even creative areas for crafting or homework. At its core, this shift is about personalization and connection. Multi-functional dining spaces allow clients to express their personality through art, books, and thoughtfully curated built-ins that evolve over time.'

7. Moody Color Palettes

There's always been a sense that dining rooms should be light and bright, but as we head into 2026, things are getting a little darker. Decorating with moody color palettes will dominate, creating a sense of drama and bold design.

'We’re also seeing an uptick in moody dining rooms, which feels like a natural evolution. Because dining rooms are most often used in the evening, they’re the perfect place to experiment with deeper, more saturated colors without the concern of living in a dark space all day,' says Natasia and Sandy.

'Dining rooms are becoming more atmospheric and intentional. The biggest shift is toward spaces that feel moody, alluring, and designed for lingering rather than formality. Darker, rich hues are setting the tone, drawing from nature to ground the room while adding quiet drama,' adds Lauren Coburn, designer at NextHaus Alliance and owner of Lauren Coburn LLC.

8. The Round Table Revival

When you're designing a dining room, there's always the question of which dining table shape is best. And while rectangular and even long oval examples have proved popular over the years, 2026 marks the comeback of the humble round table.

'One of our favorite trends for 2026 is the return of the round dining table. Visually striking and naturally grounding, it acts as a true centerpiece while subtly reshaping how we gather,' says Miranda Cullen, principal designer and owner of Inside Stories.

'By eliminating edges and hierarchy, round tables invite conversation, equality, and connection – reflecting a broader shift toward homes designed to bring people together rather than set them apart.'

Shop the 2026 Dining Room Trends

Dining room trends for 2026 are signalling a shift towards dynamic, lived-in spaces that feel more casual and multi-functional than ever before. Decor is becoming more playful and experimental, while architecture is embracing character and history. They are the antithesis of dining room cliches, and offer a welcome change from the outdated dining room trends we are all tired of seeing.

Pendant lights, often dubbed the jewelry of the ceiling, hover at their metaphorical peak as dining room lighting, where they cast a soft glow over long, leisurely dinners with your cast of collected characters (and whatever culinary masterpiece you’ve decided to plate).

You could opt for a flush mount. You could go full chandelier. But if you want elegance without the obvious, and sophistication without the theatrics, a single pendant – or a strategic series scaled to your table – is the dining-room lighting formula designers decidedly swear by.

Whether you’re prepping for entertaining season or simply elevating an ordinary Wednesday, Homes & Gardens has curated 18 dining room pendant lights that bring discreet, decorator-level polish and satisfy even the most selective design appetites.

It feels like we've all been having a very up-and-down relationship with dining rooms. At first, a formal space was a must-have feature, then casual dining in the kitchen was most stylish, and now, a blend of the two is the most fashionable.

And as dining room ideas have changed, evolved, and become more multi-functional spaces, there are a few features and design decisions widely considered clichés – they are out of style and outdated.

The dining room might not be the highest-traffic space in your home, but it gets plenty of stage time during the hosting season and is often one of the rooms your guests see most. That’s why it’s key for this area to look timeless yet on-trend, functional yet aesthetic, relaxed but still occasion-ready.

So what are the dining room clichés designers warn will make your space look dated in 2025 and beyond?

1. Banquettes in Formal Dining Rooms

It's fair to say we've all become slightly obsessed with banquette seating. It feels a bit cooler, comfier, and adds additional storage, which is always a bonus. But in a formal dining room, designers say it feels misplaced.

'Banquettes in formal dining rooms are losing steam. They look great in photos but rarely work in real life, especially when guests are climbing in and out during a dinner party,' says interior designer Ellie Christopher.

'Fully upholstered dining chairs are making a comeback. They add softness, texture, and a sense of ease. I also love the idea of giving heirloom pieces a modern update: slipcovered dining chairs in linen or cotton instantly tone down the formality and feel fresh again,' she explains.

Reupholstering an inherited or vintage chair is a great way to modernize antique furniture and give it a more unique look that feels tailored to your style and lifestyle. And the fabric you choose is key.

'For families, laminated or wipeable fabrics like leather keep things beautiful and livable. The goal now is a dining space that’s elegant but approachable – somewhere people actually want to linger.'

If you want something timeless and comfy, the Threshold™ Ingleside Open Back Upholstered Wood Frame Dining Chair from Target is a great choice, or for something a little bolder, Lulu and Georgia's Haddan Slipcover Dining Arm Chair is fully upholstered with a range of fabric patterns and colors to choose from.

2. Oversized Chandeliers

In years past, no formal dining room was complete without a beautiful lighting fixture – usually a grand chandelier. It created a sense of decadence and status that made the dining room feel more formal. But it's a look designers are gravitating towards less and less.

'Large and heavy chandeliers are on their way out for dining rooms. The days of having a chandelier with dripping crystals to create a very formal look in a dining room aren’t what people are looking for now,' says Yena Jung, of By Yena Designs.

Something more unexpected and contemporary in style can create a beautiful design feature that feels far from dated. This Curie Polished Champagne Chandelier from CB2 is a perfect example of a modern interpretation of a chandelier, or for something more subtle and soft, Bruck Lighting's Federica Pendant from Wayfair is so chic.

'Many formal dining rooms are being turned into completely new spaces like play rooms, laundry rooms, but more commonly, dining rooms are being combined with semi-open concept kitchens. You don’t need statement kitchen pendant lights and a heavy dining room chandelier in a combined space,' she explains.

In fact, open plan spaces can instantly feel overwhelmed with too many statement lighting features, and can take your dining space from elevated and luxurious to completely overwhelmed. So, instead of embracing the traditional, oversized designs, Yena recommends choosing more unique designs.

'I’m using more artistic chandeliers that are asymmetrical and odd-shaped. I’ve also been adding color to the light fixtures, where traditionally you only ever saw glass, black, white, silver, and gold. Light fixtures bring warmth to a room, but doing a fixture in a dark mulberry color or aged bronze brings another dimension and something more interesting to look at besides too many hanging crystals.'

3. Single-Use Dining Rooms

There's a reason separate dining rooms fell out of style – most of us simply weren't using them outside of one or two holiday meals. As such, they became dumping grounds and dust collectors, rather than the hub of the home we expected them to be. And it's a cliché that designers say it's time to give up on.

'The single-use formal dining room is on its way out. Today’s dining spaces are evolving into multifunctional rooms that reflect how people actually live – not just where they eat a few times a year,' says Sandy Baisley and Natasia Smith, co-founders of Re-Find.

It's a bit like when fashion people say an expensive coat or luxury perfume shouldn't be saved just for best, but worn and loved all the time. And your dining space should be approached in the same way – designed to be used every day and enjoyed. And multi-purpose is the way to do it.

'We’re designing dining rooms that double as home libraries, lounges, or game rooms – places you want to spend time in. The key is comfort: plush chairs, layered lighting, and a mix of textures that invite you to linger long after the meal is over,' they explain. Blending dining with these unexpected rooms creates a natural evolution – once you've finished eating, dining can flow into evening entertainment.

Introducing multiple functions to your dining room doesn't require a full remodel. You can simply add some bookshelves, such as the Ashwood Road 5 Shelf Bookcase from Walmart or the Higgs Bottom Arch Cane Paneling Bookcase from Anthropologie, for book and game storage, or even add a casual seating area at one end of the room.

4. 'Museum-Piece' Designs

In many ways, the dining room is the one space where people often default to what they think it should look like, rather than curating a space that feels like their own, is comfortable for family meals, and is filled with personal details. But it's something designers say we should absolutely change as we head into 2026.

'One trend we see fading is the overly formal, museum-piece dining room, the kind that’s used twice a year and feels stiff. Heavy matching furniture sets and generic builder lighting are losing steam because they don’t reflect how people live today,' explains Rebekah Murphy, co-founder and principal designer at Murphy & Moore Design.

In essence, it's become a cliché to fill your dining room with clichés, rather than designing a space that reflects your interior design style and the way you and your family would actually use the space. But it's exactly how Rebekah says you should be approaching your dining room design.

'Homeowners are embracing character-driven, lived-in elegance: dining rooms that feel collected, personal, and integrated with the rest of the home. We’re seeing historic architectural details, interesting color stories, statement lighting, and a mix of vintage pieces become central to the space,' she explains.

'Instead of perfection, people want patina, warmth, and rooms that invite conversation. A beautifully layered dining room with thoughtful millwork and sculptural lighting feels far more relevant for the way families gather now.'

5. Matching Dining Chair Sets

It's become very well-known that in a bedroom, you should never decorate with a full matching suite, where the wardrobes, drawers, and bedside tables are all the same. And this same ethos applies to the dining room – all-matching furniture lacks character and misses the cohesive mark.

'Formal dining rooms with perfectly matched chair sets are falling out of favor,' says Kate Hartman of Kate Hartman Interiors. 'In their place, we’re seeing intimate, banquette-style nooks that feel softer, cozier, and far more conducive to lingering over long, elegant meals.'

A banquette is a chic choice in an open-plan space, but in more formal dining rooms, chairs are still a favored choice. In these instances, either introduce a different chair at each head of the table (this Halbrook Dining Chair Set of 2 by Sarah Sherman Samuel is perfect for this) or go for a fully mismatched look.

Shopping vintage is a great option for this look – your dining room will instantly feel collected and characterful, as long as you maintain a common thread for each chair, whether it's the material they are made from or the upholstery color and pattern. Chairish has some brilliant examples, including this selection of 1950s Vintage Dining Chairs.

In short, dining rooms are supposed to be lived-in, characterful spaces, rather than the showroom designs you are so used to seeing. It's about ditching the features you think you should introduce, replacing them with pieces you love, and adhering to your unique style. Remember, this is a room for spending quality time, not a time capsule of traditions passed.

A careful balance is required when lighting a dining room. It needs elements of functional lighting, yet depends on ambiance and a softer glow to create the perfect atmosphere for hosting, dining, and quiet evenings.

Which is why your dining room lighting ideas can be some of the trickiest to get right. You want to create the same warmth and coziness as a living space, but ditching the big light is a big no when it comes to functionality. So what's the solution?

It turns out, interior designers have mastered the perfect formula for lighting a dining room that combines the best of cozy ambiance and function for the perfect hosting space.

1. Start With Layers

For most people, the dining room is the heart of the hosting season. It's where you gather with loved ones and enjoy a home-cooked meal together. But as a social and dining space, how can you get the lighting scheme right?

'I always start with layers. Layers in lighting are crucial to having a well-planned lighting formula,' says Michelle Murphy, founder and designer at DEMI RYAN, who emphasizes the need for different sources to balance function with softer ambiance.

'Overhead, ambient, and accent lighting, a chandelier or statement pendant anchors the space, while sconces, picture lights, or even small lamps on a console soften the room. I find a 2:1 ratio of ambient to accent lighting creates a balanced glow that feels both intentional and inviting,' she explains.

As well as layering these three different types of lighting, Kate Aslangul, founder and creative director of Oakley Moore, explains that layering fixtures at different heights within the dining room is important, too.

'I like to layer light at different heights: wall lights, table lamps, and either a single central pendant over a small table, or an uneven multiple of pendants for one that is longer, to add depth and warmth. Pendants should hang around 90cm (35") above the table to create intimacy.'

2. Choose a Soft but Statement Ceiling Light

One of the biggest factors in dining room lighting is that the ceiling light plays a huge role in a successful scheme – it makes a strong case for keeping the controversial big light in this cozy-meets-practical room. And there are plenty of ways to make it a beautiful focal point.

'I'm a big fan of a chandelier as a focal point in the dining room, so I definitely do not ditch the overhead light here. Chandeliers with glass drops and candles creating reflections in the glass have been used to light dining spaces for centuries, and we still try to create that same intimate atmosphere today,' explains Jo Plant, Pooky Lighting's chief creative director.

For a dappled lighting effect, the Glacier Chandelier by Regina Andrew is a stylish choice, or for something more classic, the Rita Chandelier from Pooky would look beautiful above a dining table.

It's also worth considering how the light diffuses from your chosen fixture. 'The key is to soften it. If the pendant is directly above the table, choose a shade that diffuses rather than exposes light,' says Pia Pelkonen, creative director at Pia Design.

'A frosted glass globe or a fabric shade creates a gentle glow instead of harsh shadows. Bringing the pendant lower to the table also instantly makes the space feel more intimate and connected,' she explains.

3. Use the Right Bulb Temperature and Make Light Dimmable

It's easy to focus on the fixtures you introduce and where you locate them, but there is much more to a strong lighting formula that makes it soft, warm, and ambient. For designers, installing dimmers and choosing the right bulb warmth is key.

'Since dining rooms come into their own in the evening, lighting is the key to creating atmosphere. Every circuit should be on a dimmer as it’s the only way to achieve that sense of mood and flexibility,' says Kate.

'Dimmers and correct bulb temperatures are key in dining areas,' Jo agrees. 'Always have your lights on a central dimmer and never use a bulb with more than 2700K for a warm and inviting atmosphere. This is definitely the most flattering light for late-night dinner party conversation!'

And while it's most typical to just have a dimmer for the overhead or ceiling light, which is often considered the most harsh, Michelle explains that it can actually be more beneficial to make all hard-wired lighting dimmable.

'To me, dimmers are non-negotiable; they let you sculpt the light depending on the mood. Layering multiple dimmable sources creates a space that feels alive and flexible rather than static. We encourage our clients to always add them; you will never be sorry that a light fixture is on a dimmer.'

Make sure you buy fixtures that are compatible with dimmers. This Brushed Gold Chandelier from Wayfair is a chic choice, and if you're looking for a warmer glow, these GE Soft White Lightbulbs come well-reviewed.

4. Don't Forget to Add Candlelight and Decorative Lighting

Once you've combed through the dos and don'ts of choosing fixtures, installing dimmers, and selecting the right bulb temperatures, it's finally time to focus on decorative lighting. It's those small details that are less about function and more about atmosphere and aesthetics. In short, it's the fun part.

'The essential finishing touch and the most flattering light of all on any dining table is candlelight; don’t hold back, position the candles at differing heights on the table, and there should be lots of them, it looks generous and makes guests feel special and welcome,' says Kate.

You can add any style of candles to your dining room, but there's something so timeless and warming about taper candles. Classic white designs, like these Dripless White Candles, work, but as we head into hosting season, the moodier shade of these Taupe Taper Candles from McGee & Co. really appeals.

It's not just candles to think about, either, although they are among the most impactful, especially as part of a table centerpiece. Wall lights that aren't part of the functional lighting scheme also come into play here.

'Wall sconces or art lights bring a beautiful perimeter glow, while candles add intimacy at eye level. I often place a lamp or lamps on a sideboard to reflect light off nearby mirrors or artwork, which doubles the visual warmth,' explains Michelle.

Picture lights are an unexpected addition, but they are so effective if you want to highlight wall decor, whether it's a beautiful piece of artwork or open shelving. 'Picture lights draw attention to artwork and vertical surfaces, creating focal points and making the room feel richer,' adds Pia.

How you light a dining room is as much a stylistic choice as it is a functional one. In many ways, it's quite similar to kitchen lighting – you could even experiment with the lighting rule of three in your dining room for the best blend of soft light and function as we head into hosting season. It's also a great feature to switch up if you want to prepare your dining room for Christmas.

Whether you have a separate dining room, a cozy kitchen eating nook, or an open-plan room, choosing the right dining table shape is key to the room's success, both aesthetically and functionally.

The table is the beating heart of your dining room ideas – and there's more to consider than the style of the furniture, or how many people it can seat, even though these things are still important.

But if you choose the wrong dining table shape, your entire room will feel off, and the flow will feel disjointed and awkward. But it turns out, designers have a fail-safe approach to choosing the right table shape. Here's their advice.

What's the Best Dining Table Shape?

Your dining table really is the heart of the space, dominating the majority of the floor space and the main furniture piece. So, choosing the right shape for your dining room is the most important part of the design process. But it's not as simple as one shape fits all.

'The correct shape of the dining table you select depends largely on the shape of the room you are putting it in. A long, rectangular room should have a long, rectangular or oval table. A square room looks best with a round table,' says interior designer Bethany Adams.

There's more to consider when choosing a dining table than just the shape of the room and table itself. Proportions, scale, and walkway space are all important factors that greatly impact the overall look and functionality of your space.

'Start by considering the dimensions of the room and the number of people you usually want to seat. Ensure there is enough circulation space around the table – at least one meter between the edge of the table and the walls or furniture,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

Bethany agrees, adding, 'You must imagine the chairs pulled out 18" from the table, and then leave a minimum of 24" behind the chairs for people to pass behind for the room to feel gracious, not cramped.'

'Take note that the shape of the room could be affected by built-ins or other large pieces of furniture, and that's what you want to base your table shape on – the leftover floor area,' she adds.

The rectangular dining room above is a great example, which, due to the built-ins and hutch, actually becomes more of a square-shaped room, thus affecting the optimal dining table shape for the room.

Here's a simple and easy-to-follow breakdown of the different table shapes, and when best to use them, depending on the shape and size of your dining room.

A Rectangular or Oval Dining Table

A rectangular dining table is perhaps the most popular design. 'Most dining rooms are rectangular, and it makes sense for the table to echo its surroundings,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

If you have a long dining room, a table that follows those same proportions looks the most cohesive and creates the most practical floor and seating arrangement, especially if you want to accommodate more guests.

'Rectangular tables are best suited for spaces where you plan to seat more than ten people, making them ideal for large gatherings or holiday meals. They naturally fit well in longer rooms and provide a sense of formality while still feeling versatile,' says interior designer Tracy Morris.

'Many rectangular tables include leaves, allowing you to extend the length and adjust the size depending on the occasion. This flexibility makes them a timeless and practical choice for anyone who loves to entertain,' she adds. The Azzedine Extendable Dining Table from Wayfair is a great example.

If you have an open plan kitchen, living, and dining area, you'll usually find that a rectangular table works best, creating a more zoned feel and fitting seamlessly into a small section of one great room.

'They work well in rooms with multiple entrances or in open-plan layouts, and they make it easy to place benches along one side for flexible seating,' explains Lauren, who has designed several open-plan spaces with this approach.

'Rectangular tables also provide a clear line for decorative centerpieces, candles, or a runner. In smaller rooms, a rectangular table can also be paired with banquette seating along one wall to save space while keeping the seating comfortable and visually appealing,' she adds, highlighting their versatility.

And your dining room area doesn't necessarily have to be rectangular for this table shape to be the best fit, as Bethany explains. 'My own dining room in a 1897 eclectic Victorian has, I kid you not, 9 sides, but as it is longer than it is wide, I've had a rectangular and oval dining table in there and both looked great.'

And she makes a very valid point here – an oval dining table is often suited to the same spaces as rectangular ones because they, too, are long and narrow in form. But there's something about an oval that feels a touch more social, with better visual lines between every diner, and the traditional head of the table is less enforced, creating a more casual atmosphere.

'An oval dining table offers the most comfortable shape for conversation, whilst also being versatile, working well with a varied number of seats. This shape also lends itself beautifully to different styles of architecture without interrupting the flow of the room,' says Fred Horlock, design director at Neptune.

'Oval is a lovely option between round and rectangular, and it’s the dining table shape I opted for in my petite NYC dining room. I love the elegant contours and versatility of its gently curved silhouette,' adds Kathy.

A Round or Square Dining Table

If you're dining room doesn't meet the criteria for a rectangular or oval table, it's time to consider a round table. Often smaller, they are best suited to more compact rooms, smaller eat-in areas, and even spacious but square dining rooms, as it helps to level out the proportions of the room.

And Tracy agrees, explaining that, 'Round tables are perfect for seating eight or fewer guests, as they naturally encourage conversation and connection without anyone feeling left out.' And, as Fred notes, 'Round tables are easier to move around, making them great options for smaller, awkward spaces or corners.'

'They also work beautifully in square rooms, where the curved edges help soften the space and break up all the right angles. The shape feels inviting and relaxed, making it ideal for both everyday meals and more intimate gatherings. It’s a timeless choice that brings people together in the best way,' Tracy adds.

It's the intimacy and conversational layout of a round table that makes them so appealing. Especially when you're dining with smaller numbers, a round table removes the divide from one end of the table to another, so everyone feels involved.

'Round tables are ideal for smaller rooms or more intimate settings. They encourage conversation because everyone is at an equal distance, and there are no “ends” of the table, which can make a space feel more relaxed,' explains Lauren.

'They also work well in a bay window or cozy dining nook, where a rectangular table might feel too formal or imposing. Round tables can also pair beautifully with a curved banquette, creating a snug corner for seating that maximizes both comfort and space.'

But they are also perfect for a square-shaped dining room, and it's in these circumstances that you have the choice between a round or a square table. 'Square tables can look beautiful in smaller, more balanced spaces and feel modern when styled with clean lines,' says Tracy.

Choosing the right dining table shape for your home has never been easier. Work with the shape and layout of your dining room, and consider the flow and atmosphere you want to recreate – your dining room furniture really is crucial to the success of your design.

As the busy winter hosting season approaches and calendars start to fill with dinner parties, family gatherings, and festive celebrations, the dining room, more than ever, becomes the heart of the home. Your dining table decor ideas should feel like a true statement – elevating the room while setting the stage for memorable meals.

However, according to designers, a chic table isn’t just about what you add – it’s also about what you leave off. Some items, while practical or sentimental, can instantly disrupt the flow, make guests uncomfortable, or distract from the overall aesthetic of your dining room ideas. Whether your table stands in a formal dining room or anchors an open-concept living space, striking the balance between beauty and functionality is key.

So, what belongs on the table, and what should be placed elsewhere before the guests arrive? We asked top interior designers to share the common culprits to clear away – and the elegant alternatives to style with instead.

1. Overpowering centerpieces

When you’re hosting, it can be tempting to crown your table with a dramatic, oversized centerpiece. After all, a bold floral arrangement feels festive and grand. But designers caution that bigger isn’t always better – especially when it comes to dining tables.

‘One item that people tend to use on the dining room table improperly is also considered one of its main attractions, which is the floral centerpiece,’ says culinary expert and French chef Elle Philippe, who worked with designers Marvin Miller and Leslie Rinehardt of Rinehardt Miller Interiors on the tablescape shown here.

The problem? Scale. ‘A big, overpowering centerpiece is more cumbersome and awkward than not,’ she explains. ‘Large centerpieces tend to block the view of the opposite side of the table and also take up space that’s usually needed for food dishes.’

Instead, Elle recommends breaking up a single showpiece into smaller, more playful moments. ‘Most people choose to move the large arrangements off the table for dinner, however, we feel a good alternative is to create a grouping of smaller flower arrangements. Cut the stems down and arrange them in petite vases, or even mismatched cocktail glasses, for a more whimsical, guest-friendly look.’

And this advice applies beyond flowers. Colleen Bennett of CBB Designs adds, ‘a well-styled dining table benefits from a clear, open surface with a striking but understated centerpiece, like a low bowl of seasonal fruits or a single large candle, leaving plenty of room for dining.’

2. Tall floral arrangements

While lush blooms are a seasonal staple, height is another common pitfall.

‘We all love the look of a gorgeous, tall bouquet as a centerpiece, but they can affect how your guests are able to converse over dinner,’ says Laura Cassell Fischer, vice president of merchandise and product development at tableware brand over&back.

If your flowers block sightlines, they block conversation, too. And nothing kills the mood at Thanksgiving or Christmas faster than a table where guests can’t chat comfortably with the people across from them.

Laura’s solution? Keep it low. ‘We always suggest bud vases or even a small glass filled with shorter florals or greenery. These will still add color to your table but will not impact your ability to have a lively conversation.’

Make sure you’ve calculated how many people can sit around your table with ease, too, so everyone has both space and visibility. We explore how many people can sit around your dining table in our dedicated feature.

3. Placemats

It may sound surprising, but many designers advise against leaving placemats out as a permanent feature.

‘Accessories that I would stay away from would be placemats,’ says Melanie Olson, founder of Melanie Olson Design Group. ‘Specifically, when the table isn’t set. This look always feels messy and unfinished. It’s an unnecessary accessory to always have out and should be stored away until the table needs to be set.’

Instead of layering with linens year-round, Melanie suggests keeping the table streamlined when it’s not in use. ‘When the table isn’t set for a dinner party or gathering, my advice is to always keep it effortless. A simple centerpiece is all you need.’

4. Small accents

The dining table’s generous surface often tempts hosts to scatter it with lots of small trinkets and décor. But restraint, experts say, is key.

‘The most appealing tables, in my opinion, have pieces that have a bit of weight to ground the look and then other smaller accent elements,’ says Purvi Padia, creative director and founder of Purvi Padia Interiors and creator of tabletop collection REVELRY. ‘Too many small accents can look cluttered and confuse the eye.’

What you can layer in abundance, though, are materials. ‘I am drawn to the idea of mixing all materials – bone china, hand-blown glass, stone, wood, metals. Everything is fair game, but be sure to use at least three different materials,’ she suggests. The mix adds interest, while the edit keeps things polished.

5. Faux flowers

There’s one final floral faux pas to avoid this season: artificial blooms.

‘I avoid faux florals where I can,’ says Whitney Ray of Wyeth Ray Interiors. While they may be low-maintenance, they rarely deliver the fresh, vibrant look you want when hosting for the holidays.

For a longer-lasting alternative, Whitney suggests turning to preserved greenery. ‘A great way to always have a fresh dining table is to buy a bowl or vessel you love and have your local florist add preserved moss. It will always stay green, is lightweight to move if needed, and is a way better alternative to faux floral arrangements.’

Melanie Olson also adds, 'other natural elements – including citrus fruits in a marble bowl or greenery in a ceramic vase – can add dimension and texture while keeping the table design clean and intentional.'

6. Everyday clutter

While modern dining tables often serve as temporary work-from-home desks or landing zones for mail and other everyday clutter, allowing these spaces to become a catch-all for mess detracts from their primary purpose.

A table piled with laptops, charging cords, or bills not only looks messy but also prevents the space from feeling special and ready for a meal.

Ensure to incorporate plenty of useful dining room storage ideas or embrace storage ideas in another room in the house close by so you can easily store things away and keep your dining room table looking presentable, inviting, and ready to use.

The golden rule for a beautiful dining table is restraint. ‘A common mistake people make when styling is overloading it with excessive table settings or décor – too many plates, layers of glassware, or oversized objects,’ says Colleen Bennett of CBB Designs. ‘This overwhelms the space and makes the table feel cramped. Instead, focus on fewer, carefully chosen pieces that create impact without clutter.’

With the holiday season ahead, the less-is-more approach not only keeps your table looking chic, but also leaves plenty of room for the dishes, drinks, and conversations that make this busy time of the year so special.

For more tips, we explore how to set a table in our dedicated piece.

Thrift stores are like treasure troves; you never know what you're going to get, but when you do stumble across something, it's usually a gem. I like to head to my local store for all kinds of trinkets, but there's one room I had in mind on my last trip – the dining room.

So before I headed to my local store with no clear plan of the exact pieces I was after, I asked designers what I should be looking out for when it comes to finding second-hand furniture and decor to decorate with vintage in the dining room.

From vintage wood furniture to high-quality tableware, these are the pieces designers told me to pick up if I could find them.

1. Vintage china

If you've ever set foot in a thrift store, you'll know that they're usually filled with china and ceramics. From dainty floral tea sets to farmhouse style lusterware, it's easy to decorate with vintage ceramics with this vast selection.

Sharing the best dishware brands to shop secondhand, interior designer Nina Watson says, 'If you look at the oldest, most established brands like Spode, you can trust that their porcelain china will be of the finest quality. You can find whole vintage dining sets, or add to a collection bit by bit, and it's lovely when you mix it up a little, it doesn't all have to match!'

Explaining how to display collections in your dining room, Nina says, 'We have some gorgeous terrines and serving dishes, some were inherited, some from thrift shops, some online, and we've even found them in thrift stores. We display our favorite pieces on our shelves as we love to see them in our dining room, even if we're not using them.'

2. Artwork

A cheap thing to thrift that will make your home look more expensive, art comes in many forms at the thrift store.

There are stacks of prints, paintings, and illustrations in frames at my local thrift store. Admittedly, these random piles can work to get through, but they're worth having a look through, as these vintage pieces are often one-of-a-kind and give your dining room not only eclecticism but also individuality.

Whether you're creating a traditional dining room or a more pared-back, minimalist space, one simple framed picture can make all the difference to a scheme lacking character. Jessica Lev, founder of Jessica Lev Antiques, says, 'Vintage and antique prints and paintings are typically found while thrifting for a fraction of retail price, and can bring depth and interest to your walls! I always look for interesting frames and matting to bring additional interest.'

3. Vintage tablecloth

Don't neglect the pile of preloved linen at the thrift store; the range of textiles can be used in the dining room in plenty of ways.

Decorating with vintage fabrics comes in many forms, but one of the best ways to use them in the dining room is on the table. Whether it's an embroidered set of dollies or a linen tablecloth, these pieces are often cheap to buy and can elevate a tablescape.

Nina says, 'A vintage tablecloth can be a lovely way to transform your dining room. You can use different ones for each season and if you can find a really large one you can cover a few tables with it if you're hosting and don't have a long enough table (we use my grandmother's that was originally white, but very marked. We dyed it a dark grey which brings extra drama and provides added contrast against the vintage tableware).'

4. Affordable dining tables

When I spoke with designers about the best furniture to buy at thrift stores, wooden dinint tables came up in a few conversations. Shopping second hand can be a great way to get large, quality pieces at an affordable price.

Interior designer Lindsey Herod often decorates her projects with thrifted pieces, such as the room pictured above. She says, 'Large traditional wood dining tables are often the highest price item in a dining room, so we often look to consignment stores and vintage dealers for beautiful, quality tables that don't break the bank while anchoring the entire room.'

To go with her thrifted dining furniture, Lindsey often seeks out classically elegant decor, like ornate mirrors. She adds, 'Mirrors and accessories are great items to source from thrift stores, as well as china and silver tea sets and serving pieces.'

5. Bar carts and cabinets

If you're a fan of bar cart ideas, you'll want to check out the thrift store. From glassware to cocktail equipment, you can almost always find a home bar essential that will level up your hosting game and give your dining room a retro edge.

Nina says, 'As far as furniture goes, a vintage cocktail cabinet or sideboard is beautiful as well as useful and doesn't have to cost the earth, plus it adds instant personality to your room. Make sure if you're adding wooden pieces to a room, that the tones are similar, maple and mahogany can jar if they're too close together.'

Referring to her own bar cabinet (pictured above) she adds, 'Our Art Deco drinks cabinet was originally my grandmother's wardrobe. We put antique glass in the door, added glass shelves, and wired it up so that it's lit inside – it looks magical now and is my favorite upcycled item in the house!'

Interior designer Whitney Schones also hunts for bar accessories at a thrift store. 'One of our favorite second-hand finds for a dining room is a bar cart. Because tables typically flow in the center of the room, there are often empty corners that are perfect for a stylish yet functional piece.'

'I love incorporating items that serve a purpose- bar carts allow for an edited drink set up, so hosts do not have to disappear to the kitchen. The vintage versions add character, like brass, glass, or acrylic, and give the room depth. You can often find ones from the '70s and even '80s at the thrift store that still feel collected without breaking the bank.'

If you are looking to add character to your dining room, and not spend too much either, having a look around thrift stores will always prove fruitful – even a small piece of unique artwork or a vintage crockery set you can put on display will add some interest.

'What I love most about using vintage and antique finds in the dining room (and it is true of them all) is the feeling you get that something has lived before you and still wants to continue telling their story,' adds Nina.

While Joanna Gaines will always be known for her big impact, big budget, big bulldozing transformations, her latest series, 'Mini Reni', which focuses on more bijoux spaces, might just be my favorite yet.

The first glow-up in Joanna Gaines' Mini Reni series is a beautifully organic modern space that stopped me in my tracks. But if you missed the premiere episode, don't fret.

Posting on Instagram earlier this week, the designer and Fixer Upper star shared a behind-the-scenes tour of the earthy yet elevated Southwestern-inspired foyer and dining room. It’s warm, textured, and layered in that effortlessly Joanna way – and the best part? It is entirely shoppable in the Magnolia Memorial Day sale.

As someone deep in the trenches of my own home renovation (though nowhere near Joanna's scale), I love a good reno series to follow along with. But sometimes you can't always relate to such dramatic renovation ideas, which is what makes 'Mini Reni' feel so aspirational.

I’m constantly looking for ways to update my spaces without starting from scratch, and Joanna's proved that sometimes, all it takes is a lick of paint, some lovely terracotta tile, and an eye for styling.

'This was our entryway and dining room project that we just finished,' Joanna explains in the video. 'Some of my favorite things in this space [include] this green – this is Remote Trail Green, one of my favorite green paints. This was an existing built-in that just needed a little bit of an update, so we added these beautiful cabinet door fronts, added some hardware, a little bench moment here, added in some pillows,' she says, taking us through the small tweaks she did on this relaxing entryway.

In just a few key updates, Joanna completely reimagines the vibe of this previously underused entry, transforming it into a space that feels lived-in and welcoming. 'What I love about this space is it feels so much bigger, it feels organic, it feels natural,' she adds.

Taking a closer look at the space, it shows that design doesn’t always have to mean a full gut job. Sometimes, it’s about letting the space evolve by bringing in some added texture, color, and a little storytelling piece by piece.

'What I love about 'Mini 'Reni' is it shows that you can do a little and have a really big impact and for me, I think that design is more than just what it looks like, its what it feels like, and it feels right when I'm standing here in this space,' says Joanna in another recent post.

In the dining room, seen above, Joanna created the perfect balance between curated and casual. It's the kind of room that invites you to stay a while, and if you're wondering how to decorate connecting rooms like this foyer and dining space, you ought to take notes on the tonal thread that weaves throughout the two spaces.

'The dining room, to me, what I love about it is that it's showing people that a simple paint refresh and just some added texture and detail really doesn't cost you a ton of money,' says Joanna via Instagram. She explains how they bought a simple 4x4 post from a lumber store and used it to create a refined ceiling beam above the dining table. The final touch was hanging the Calder Chandelier above, which has set Magnolia's comments alight with requests for links to shop the statement dining room lighting idea.

Shop Joanna Gaines' 'Mini Reni' dining room and foyer makeover

'I wanted to show you some of the things I grabbed from the Magnolia store to style the space with,' says Joanna in the video. 'The Ollie Dining Table, the buffet a.k.a the Suri Sideboard, all of the chairs, everything I styled this space with is very tonal, very earthy, and organic.'

If you're as inspired as I was, below are just a few of the pieces from the 'Mini Reni' inviting dining room and foyer that you can bring home to create the look for yourself. And with 20% off sitewide in the Memorial Day home sales, there's really no better time than now to recreate her shoppable scheme.

I've always admired Joanna Gaines's ability to create spaces that feel design-led yet welcoming and liveable, which is exactly what she achieves in these mini makeovers – every detail feels thoughtful and warm without being overdone.

The best part is, every key piece is available to shop from Magnolia in the sale, so if you've been waiting for a sign to refresh your space, this might just be it. And if you're looking for further inspo, 'Mini Reni' is available to watch now on Magnolia Network and Max, airing each Wednesday through July 9.

No dining room is complete without a few staple pieces and this trio of essential furniture first comes to mind. First, there's the all-important dining table, then the set of dining chairs, and of course, the overhead lighting that all works together to make the space functional.

Shea McGee's The Oaks house tour is a fresh take on tradition as it features a unique dining room arrangement with an unexpected statement couch. While we're all familiar with classic dining room furniture ideas, interior designer Shea McGee is not afraid to mix and match by bringing a piece of living room furniture into the dining space, proving that casual seating can provide comfort, practicality, and style.

We delve deeper into the elevated yet achievable dining look and discuss Shea's clever use of dynamic seating.

Every year dining room furniture trends change and designer Shea McGee is always at the forefront of these exciting ideas. The Oaks dining room is no different.

A fine balance has been perfected in the space, the textured wood and boucle dining chairs provide a formality that's matched by the glass pendant lights. Both are fairly traditional choices in a dining space, but the couch throws this vibe off in the best way possible, contrasting the formal chairs and giving the space a more relaxed, sociable feel.

A couch in the dining room may initially feel a little unfamiliar but when you consider the practical perks of the arrangement it makes sense. A sofa houses more guests and is far more comfortable for long dinner parties. It's also a transitional piece that blends the dining and living room, blurring the lines of tradition by creating a dynamic and liveable space.

It's not only the mix of seating and the informal feel that a couch adds to the space. Bringing this unexpected piece into the dining room allows for more layers of textures and softer finishes in a room that is so often filled with hard materials and clean lines. The linen adds a relaxed feel, both contrasting and complementing the mix of woods used throughout the room.

Shea loves to decorate with neutrals, and a lesson we always learn from her spaces is if you are going to keep things simple with the color scheme, you need to add that interest with the textures. The couch does just that.

Shop Shea's dining room style

Shea understands the importance of blending practicality with style, creating enviable spaces that make everyday living an exciting and inspiring venture. We love that she's strayed from tradition and created an elevated yet comfortable dining room that works for all occasions. Would you ever try adding a couch to your dining room?

As more designers opt for curating spaces with warming, eclectic character, ditching the once-popular minimalist style, the latest looks champion rustic, homely, and eclectic designs that all showcase a unique artisanal quality.

This year's interior design trends have embraced a truly eclectic mix of influences from times gone by, but one designer has long taken inspiration from the past by designing homes filled with antique charm. Amber Lewis, interior designer, and Shoppe Amber Interiors founder, is not afraid to mix styles and creates refreshingly contemporary yet enviably cozy homes that channel her love for vintage.

Most recently, Amber took to Instagram to give us a peek at her home, sharing the details of her transitional kitchen, dining room, and breakfast nook. All three rooms are (of course) beautiful and have made us want to try our hand at mixing the old with the new.

The kitchen

Combining slick marble with warm wood, it's clear that Amber has not been afraid to mix textures and finishes. Reminiscent of the ever-popular modern farmhouse style, Amber has mixed contrasting finishes making the kitchen ideas feel welcoming yet high-end.

Amber took to her blog All Sorts Of to spill the secrets of the design process. 'One of my favorite places in the house is the kitchen', she says. 'I wanted it to be warm, yet spacious and welcoming. I completely transformed this space, trading the crisp white cabinet paint color for a rich, warm brown and the shiny wood floors for rustic brick pavers.'

The mix of old decor and polished finishes creates a cozy yet airy effect (a combination not always easy to perfect). Everything in the kitchen is beautiful, but our eyes first turned to the unexpected kitchen island ideas. With its apothecary style drawers, it feels modern yet old. 'This custom kitchen island is the true centerpiece of the kitchen. Designed for both function and connection, it offers ample space for cooking while doubling as a hub for hanging with the family,' says Amber. Combine this with the characterful table area fitted underneath the island's overhang, it's a clever use of materials, ticking both the functional and aesthetic boxes.

From the upholstered wooden stools to the smaller details like the rustic wood chopping boards, Amber is a pro at mixing different wood tones. She continues to decorate with vintage by adding loads of classic kitchenware, such as a copper kettle and rustic earthenware.

The breakfast nook

Situated in a corner of the kitchen is the breakfast nook. The nook has been separated from the kitchen through the use of a different paint shade; creating a cozy and snug dining space that is wonderfully inviting.

'I wanted to make this an intentional place where we could sit and eat, hang, or I could enjoy a cup o’ joe before running out the door in the AM,' says Amber.

Channeling the trendy French bistro kitchen look, The café curtains on the little window above the area bring a softness that counteracts the dark paint hue, the look's success is down to even the smallest details.

Despite being separate from the kitchen, Amber has made the breakfast nook and kitchen feel cohesive and of the same style. 'What worked here was giving it all a fresh coat of paint and installing a textured grasscloth wallpaper. This not only added some much-needed dimension but offered a modern twist to balance out the more traditional elements within the space,' she says.

To soften the look Amber has scattered plenty of plush cushions along the banquette, providing the nook with new textures and a crucial cozy element. Following recent rug trends, she opts for a vintage-style rug that does a great job framing the area while bringing some antique character.

The dining room

While the dining room is filled with beautiful objects, one stand-out item makes the space feel eclectic and curated.

'The best part of this space is the gorgeous and ginormous vintage apothecary cabinet along the back wall.' Amber adds that 'the piece itself is one of my very favorite vintage finds, but I’ve had so much fun styling the top with some of my favorite art, trinkets, and décor.'

Teaching us how to style shelves, Amber has decorated the chest of drawers using a layering approach, filling gaps with small ornaments and placing big pieces at the back. Although adorned with lots of decor, the chest doesn't look cluttered. It's been transformed into a feature piece that frames the room.

Interestingly, Amber doesn't hang the artwork on the wall but chooses to prop the pieces against the drawers, resulting in a paired-back, effortless feel that makes a once-traditional space feel welcoming and relaxing.

Decorating with antiques has brought in many vintage elements, from the glass pendant light to the Persian-style rug. These pieces elevate the room and bring a charm that's matched with the dark wood dining table and the series of light wood chairs.

Amber's clearly a master at mixing textures and combining the old and new. Mixing sophistication and coziness, all three spaces feel elegant yet approachable, making them perfect for everyday use.

For more beautiful kitchen inspiration from Amber, we explore an Amber Interiors Montana Kitchen project in our separate piece.

If you want a space with style, there are definitely things to keep out of your dining room. These are the items that interior experts often see featuring in these rooms but in their opinions are definite no-nos.

The reason is that they can compromise your dining room ideas, leaving the space looking flat or dated, or leaving guests feeling uncomfortable. Along with the items that clutter up the room, the things that compromise its appearance or its atmosphere are the ones to locate elsewhere.

What are the offending items? Here interior designers reveal what they’ve seen and advised against in order to make a dining room chic.

10 things to keep out of your dining room

For an elegant dining room layout and a room that feels both welcoming and comfortable to guests as well as family, there are some things that really shouldn’t have a place. These are the trespassers designers warn to avoid and the reasons why they don’t fit in.

1. Furniture sets

Furniture sets do make buying easy, but you’ll create a better atmosphere for the room if you don’t match dining room furniture in this way.

‘Matching sets of everything can create some boring (dining) rooms,’ says interior designer Leigh Spicher, national director of design studios for Ashton Woods. ‘Chances are you want your dining space to foster stories and interesting conversation, so make sure your design/decor sets the stage.

Instead? ‘Apply the design principle of harmony (blending of different elements),’ she says. ‘For example, if you choose a wood table, opt for metal or wood upholstered chairs. Leather would be great, too.’

Joyce Huston, lead interior designer and co-founder at Decorilla Online Interior Design, agrees. ‘I find that matching furniture really seeps the life and dimension out of a dining space,’ she says. ‘I love an eclectic mix of pieces that fits the style I’m looking to achieve. I find this really makes the unique character shine and makes a dining room so much more interesting.’

2. Large family photos

Large family photos have a place, but not in the dining room, suggests Jessica Moran of Chicago-based boutique firm Jessica Moran Interiors.

‘Dining rooms are a great place to showcase your artwork and collectibles, but I'd suggest leaving the large family photos for a different room since they can be intimate and personal and potentially make your guests feel uncomfortable,’ she explains. ‘Instead, opt for decorating with art and mirrors that make sense with your overall design.’

3. Fake greenery

Say yes to the best indoor plants, but keep faux foliage and flowers out of the dining room, says Jennifer Jones, principal designer at San Francisco-based Niche Interiors.

‘Fake trees or plants are such a buzzkill,’ she explains. ‘Not only do they look cheap, the leaves tend to attract dust and are hard to keep clean. Real plants on the other hand are a welcome addition and can add life and color to your dining room.’

4. Randomly mismatched dining chairs

No, dining chairs don’t have to all be the same – but they do have to work together. ‘Mismatched chairs can be a cool design moment, but they need to feel cohesive,’ explains Los Angeles-based interior designer Victoria Holly of Victoria Holly Interiors.

‘Randomly adding different chairs together without considering proportions, materials, or style can make the dining room feel disjointed. Keep mismatching intentional and balanced.’ (And note that this is important if you’re asking similarly do living room chairs need to match?)

5. Office desks or accessories

If you want to preserve the ambiance of a dining room, make it a dual-purpose space with caution.

‘Dining rooms often double as temporary home offices but bringing in full workstations or office-related items creates a cluttered and stressed environment, detracting from the room's primary function,’ says Alan Berman, president of Archetype Architecture.

‘If work must be done in the dining room, consider compact, unobtrusive storage solutions, and keep work items out of sight when dining.’

6. Screens

If you want quality time in the dining room, keep TVs out, recommends Joyce Huston.

‘The last thing I ever want to see in a dining room is a television,’ she says. ‘We’re already constantly bombarded with screens, and having these infringe on meal times is borderline sacrilege.'

‘Interior design is about the mental and emotional experience as much as the visual one, and dining rooms are renowned as a place for people to gather and spend uninterrupted quality time with their loved ones. Screens like televisions totally destroy that, which is why I think they should be forbidden in a dining room.’

7. Stuffed china cabinet

The dining room might seem like a space to show off trinkets, but designers say to think again.

‘I’ve seen Grandma’s china cabinet stuffed with tchotchkes one too many times,’ says Jennifer Jones. ‘Typically, they just gather dust and take up valuable space in the dining room, oftentimes making the room feel cramped and cluttered.’

Bear in mind that this doesn’t mean you can’t showcase stuff in your home; you just need to follow the guidelines on how to display collections without clutter.

8. Oversized or dark area rugs

Be mindful of the rules of choosing a dining room rug as there are some that should be kept out of the space.

‘While an area rug can anchor a dining room, one that’s too big can feel like it’s swallowing the space or make the room feel off-balance,’ explains Victoria Holly.

‘That’s rugs that extend so far beyond the dining set that they make the layout feel awkward (and allow for spilling when you’re bringing in food!) Stick with a size that allows the chairs to remain on the rug even when pulled out, but doesn’t overwhelm the space.’

Think about the rug’s color and texture, too, advises Alan Berman. ‘Dark, heavy rugs can make a dining room feel smaller and absorb too much light,’ he says. ‘Rugs that are too thick also make it difficult to pull chairs in and out. A low-pile, lighter-toned rug with easy maintenance in mind (like polypropylene or jute) is more practical.’

9. Large pieces of furniture

There are some furniture pieces that are often added to the dining room that should be on the keep-out list.

‘While comfort is essential, large sofas or lounge chairs belong more in living rooms than dining rooms,’ says Alan Berman. ‘They can take up too much space, interrupting flow and making the room feel cluttered. Dining rooms benefit from a layout that allows people to move around freely and easily access dining chairs and tables.’

Also best kept elsewhere are bulky storage cabinets or dressers, he says. ‘Large storage pieces, especially those with deep drawers or cabinets, can overwhelm a dining room and make it feel cramped,’ Alan says. ‘Instead, opt for a slim credenza or sideboard that offers storage without taking up excess space. This allows more room for chairs to be pulled out comfortably.’

10. Non-essentials

It’s a temptation many people fall into, but putting non-essentials in the dining room equals clutter.

‘In today’s homes, the dining room often doubles as a multipurpose space,’ says Victoria Holly. ‘But using it as a space for homework, mail, or random storage can detract from its purpose. If you need functionality, consider a nearby console or cabinet to keep the clutter hidden but accessible.’

‘Aim to keep the dining room clear of non-essentials, reserving it solely for dining-related items like dishware, table settings, and a few decorative accents,’ advises Alan Berman.

There’s a good reason to keep certain items out of the dining room. ‘These items often make dining rooms feel busier or less purposeful than intended,’ says Alan Berman. ‘Sticking to decor and furnishings that enhance comfort, and socializing keeps the dining room feeling open and inviting.’

Some have heralded the end of the dining room as social lives become less formal. Others believe there remains a place for decanting to a room that's only used for special occasions. Then there's interior designer, entrepreneur, and star of HGTV's Fixer Upper who believes that a dining room is essential for everyday life – you just have to know how to plan, design, and style it for multiple uses.

Whether used for hosting large gatherings or for more intimate family dinners, dining rooms should be inviting, relaxing spaces that have a timeless charm. However, it can be challenging to know where to start. The key to creating a dining room with enduring appeal lies in marrying elements from the past with modern comforts to establish a scheme that perfectly meets your needs and reflects your personal tastes.

Gaines's Lake House dining room – designed by Joanna and her husband, Chip using products from their Magnolia collection – is a masterclass in how to make a dining room look classy and sophisticated. The duo found the perfect balance between chic and calm, and it is one of the best dining spaces I've seen all year.

From walls, floors and window treatments to furniture, storage and lighting – not forgetting the all-important finishing touches – there are multiple elements to consider with each playing their own part in creating a balanced and harmonious scheme.

A restrained color palette can have a calming and elegant effect. For a room that works through the seasons opt for natural simplicity, leaving bold patterns and brighter hues in favor of muted tones, subtle patterns and natural materials.

Here, a traditional round wooden dining table and simplistic chairs continue the calm feel, while candlelight provides an atmospheric glow. Decoration has been kept to a minimum, with a glass vase, foraged greenery, and cream-hued serve ware, while the theme is followed to the wall with a large scenic artwork that mimics the soothing color palette. The scheme is cozy and convivial.

When it comes to deciding between a round, rectangle, or lozenge-shaped dining table, it’s a question of taste and space, believes Simon Temprell, interior design manager at Neptune. ‘Round tables are better for conversation but take up more space. However, round tables create a lovely sense of unity providing the number of people matches the scale of the table. Bigger isn’t always better. You want to be close enough to your friends or guests to hear what they are saying.’

When not in use, dining tables make for the most wonderful display surfaces. With a little effort, they can be transformed into a mini exhibition space for gathered collectibles, which can then be whisked away when the table is called into action for entertaining.

Joanna Gaines demonstrates how to best dress a ‘resting’ table in this scheme. A decorative mix of vases, bowls, ceramics, glass and napkins keep the space visually interesting. Also important to this room is the display of art on the wall, the oversized light fixture above the table, and the tall planting in the corner; the asymmetrical arrangement further enhances the relaxed, informal nature of the room. It is so simple yet so effective.

Shop the look

Wallpaper is a big commitment. A room covered in your favorite design is not only an investment, but it also dictates the overall aesthetic of your space. And when it comes to decorating for the holidays, wallpapering is likely out of the question.

But if you want to elevate your dining room decor (or any room in your home) for this year's holiday season in an unexpected way, Shea McGee's latest idea might just be the solution you've been searching for.

Offering the beautiful texture, softness, and drama of wallpaper without the usual commitment, wallpaper mural panels are the new way to add interest to your space for the holidays and beyond.

Taking to Instagram, Shea revealed mural panels as a more unique way to add something different to your dining room decor for the holidays. Featuring classic designs framed by wood, it instantly adds interest and a greater sense of coziness to the room.

'A holiday dining look I was very excited about was these huge mural panels. It gives you the opportunity to create a wallpaper look without wallpapering your entire room,' Shea says.

In the video, she's stood in front of McGee & Co.'s Neutral Toile No. 1 mural panel, a soft neutral design that will endure far past the holidays. 'They're huge. They're tall and wide and a really beautiful mural scene. I love that they have a soft palette and then you can layer lots with it,' she adds.

It's the layering possibilities that really make this decorating method all the more appealing. Shea has used the mural panel as the backdrop for a bar cart here – a staple during the holidays – but you can also drape garlands over them, or even use it as an unexpected place to hang a Christmas wreath.

Alternatively, if you have a large expanse of empty walls you want to fill, introducing two or three mural panels can add a truly striking display. Introduce a few in the same size and style to give the effect of traditional wall paneling, or opt for a set of three with the central design the biggest to give the look of an art installation.

It's all about adding interest and style to your walls without covering them in wallpaper. Look for mural panels that best fill your walls and offer the aesthetic you want in your holiday dining room. And if you find a design that feels timeless, why not keep it as a permanent addition to your decor?

Shop wallpaper murals

Whether you buy ready-made mural panels, DIY them with your favorite wallpaper designs, or find striking art that gives the same effect, there are plenty of wonderful pieces available to buy in time for the holiday season.

While they're an unexpected way to decorate for the holidays, mural panels have enduring appeal. Opting for a timeless, season-free design means you can keep them on display whether it's the holidays or the height of summer.

A dining room, whether it's part of a kitchen or a room of its own, is a space dedicated to hosting, gathering, and socializing, so creating a scheme that is warm and inviting is key to ensuring it's somewhere you want to spend time.

But for Drew Michael Scott (A.K.A Lone Fox), transforming his dining room required more than a quick spruce up. The project began with a mostly empty room – except for a vintage dining table – which meant he could curate a scheme that truly reflected his style while paying homage to the property's history. A careful balance that he has nailed in the space.

'I wanted the space to feel cohesive with the kitchen and breakfast nook, but still maintain its own identity. I wanted the walls to have movement and include some sort of shelving on one of the walls,' says Drew, the creative also known as Lone Fox.

The large archway that connects the dining room to the kitchen was added by Drew, creating an open flow between spaces and instantly giving the illusion of greater space. 'Before the transformation, the room was very bland! Before moving in, two of the walls opened with an arch to view the coffee bar and breakfast nook, but I wanted the space to feel airier and not so enclosed,' he explains.

Adding character and warmth was the goal from the very beginning of the project, and it started with the walls. 'I chose to apply limewash paint to add subtle texture to the walls, using the color Bistrot by Portola Paints,' he adds.

The textured walls were just the start, and while they added interest and warmth to the dining room, it was the finishes and decor that really brought the space to life.

'The only piece I had in the space before the transformation was my vintage dining table, so I somewhat designed the space around the table,' says Drew, and it's clear to see it became an inspiration point for the rest of the decorative pieces.

'Most of the decor and accents are crafted from natural materials like wood and iron. I aimed to preserve the room's Spanish elements while incorporating my own vintage touches to create a unique and inviting atmosphere,' he adds.

It's the mix of old and new that adds abundant charm to the space. The Spanish-style home came with period features such as the ceiling beams, and all of these various elements needed to work harmoniously in the transformed space.

'The dining room feels warm, inspiring, and collected! I aimed for a warm and curated ambiance, showcasing the unique vintage decor I've collected over the years. I incorporated plenty of natural wood elements, including my 1,000-pound dining table crafted from repurposed shipping containers,' says Drew.

The vintage decor is the perfect finishing touch. It's what creates a truly collected and lived-in feel to the scheme. A framed tapestry on one wall fills the space – a lovely alternative to traditional artwork – while shelving on the opposite side of the room houses a curated selection of his vintage finds.

But if there's one feature that really draws your eye as you enter the dining room, it's the ceiling light that has been installed above the center of the dining table. 'The light fixture is one of my favorite finds. I found it on Facebook Marketplace for only $100, and then I found it online listed for over $5,000,' he explains.

This thoughtful balance of color, texture, and vintage decor has created the dining room design Drew had hoped for. It's warm, welcoming, and feels perfectly placed in his period home, and it's a lesson in how to nail a characterful dining room scheme.

Shop the look

Decorating with vintage is an easy way to add character to a room, and Drew's dining room is proof. With characterful design and a well-thought-out flow between spaces, his transformation is all the inspiration you need for dining room refresh.

By the time we reached our dining room in the great house refurb that cost us all our money and most of our patience, we had lost a lot of steam. We'd spent more than we intended (as is usually the way) on issues we didn't know the house had, like its 150-year-old floor joists. So the idea of having people over, of cooking meals and hosting dinner parties, was not a scenario I could visualize, and the dining room got de-prioritized.

'Let's just paint the walls,' I said to my husband, who was as equally at the end of his tether as I was. 'It'll be cheaper and easier than a mural, and if we go for a rich, dark color it will still feel like a sophisticated space.'

And I was right, it did. Covered in Portcullis, a rich, dark green emulsion by Mylands Paints, it was a bold shade that, by night, took on a warm glow when illuminated by candlelight and sconces turned low.

But every time I go in there I really regret not going for a wall mural, a key decorative dining trend that designers love and regularly favor. And honestly, it's the thing I lament most about the entire renovation.

Ok, so I really love the dining room color I chose. Like all Mylands Paints, its pigments has multiple nuances, changing hue depending on the time of day and the level of the lighting.

The cloud pendants work, hanging dream-like above the table, creating soft orbs of light and a wow moment as soon as you walk in. I'm really happy with the parquet we chose (to go over those replaced floor joists). 

But because the room has no architectural details of its own, no wainscoting or paneling to elevate the walls, I wish we'd done what I had originally intended and gone for a mural wallpaper. It would have added character, drawn people together, and made a space that feels like its own little world. A bubble that invites intimacy and a collective sense of coming together for conversation and good times. As it is, I feel like this room is lacking that, and, as a result, when people come over we invariably eat at the kitchen island.

It's a big interior design trend to use a mural in a dining room. Typically, dining rooms get used less than spaces like kitchens and living rooms, so you can be bolder in them because people are in them for less time – it's the same theory that often get applied to powder rooms.

But murals also have a social fuction, too, not just a decorative one. 'Murals are the perfect wallcovering to create a physical and emotional focal point, which is ideal when setting the scene for a fabulous luncheon or dinner party,' says Rayman Boozer, the New York-based interior designer and founder of the studio Apartment 48. He decorated the dining area above, a nook that has been enlivened by a graphic forest scene. 'Mural artwork tells a story and sparks conversation, often by featuring very specific human or natural imagery that everyone can relate with and discuss.'

The mural I'd had on my wishlist – and still have on my wishlist if I ever get around to redecorating, is the Plantasia wallpaper by House of Hackney. I'd spotted it in the brand's showroom at 200 Lexington in New York, sent pictures to my husband, and surprised myself by getting him on board (we almost never agree on decorative flourishes). It's a fantastical little world full of surprises, the Prism colorway an unexpected jewel-box take not normally applied to forest scenes.

I asked Frieda Gormley, House of Hackney's co-founder, why she thought this approach could be such a successful decorative approach for a dining room.

'I feel that murals work really well to bring art into a room,' Frieda said. 'If you’re sitting at a dining table and have a forest scene around you [on the walls] then you almost feel like you're sitting in the woods – the evening takes on a magically enchanting sense.' 

Frieda has the brand's Arborea mural in her own dining room, and says she enjoys that unexpected delight it brings to dinner parties, instantly putting people into a more convivial mood. 

The designer Enass Mahmoud suggests 'picking patterns that have a softness to them, as these work particularly well in small spaces,' and can be used to zone a dining area within an open-plan space. She says her 'current favorite' is Zoffany’s Hawksmoor in Copper which is a whirl of organic shapes and 'feels very sumptuous.'

The idea of softness can be interpreted in many ways, but what you're trying to create within a dining room is a space where your guests – and you – feel instantly relaxed. So choose colors that aren't too bright or have a neutral base to the pattern, motifs like leaves, trees, or abstract curves that are soothing on the eye, and nothing too jarring or strong - no geometric shapes or zags. 

It's an approach I keep thinking about employing for my own dining room, a space I don't feel like I can justify spending money on because it's one I hardly use. But, then, if I had a mural in it, would I use it more? The eternal question going round and round in my mind, and the biggest regret of my renovation.

Dining rooms have undergone a transformation in the past decade or so. The nation's penchant for open-plan design has meant that many of us must choose dining room decor that blends seamlessly with the kitchen.

While we're big fans of open plan, our dining areas ought to claim their own space too. And this can be achieved through color. Whether you've got a separate dining room, or you're mapping out a dining area within an open plan kitchen, the color combinations you use in your space will completely transform how you use the room and how you feel in it.

Whether it's elegant dinner parties with friends that last well into the night, or weekend lunches with all the family gathered round, our dining room color combinations are the backdrop to some of life's most precious moments – so they are important to get right.

What color combinations work well in a dining room?

When considering which color combinations to choose for your dining room, you must first ask yourself, how will you most often use the space? And then, how do you want to feel when using it?

If your answer is that you want to host elaborate dinner parties, serve up cocktails, and be the social hub of your friendship circle where you feel elegant and luxurious, then dark and sultry shades will work best.

But, if you want a space where your kids can invite all their friends round and play games and enjoy lunch together, then a more vibrant and uplifting palette, such as orange or yellow, will help to achieve this feel.

Or, if relaxation at the end of a long working day is at the top of your dining room wish list, then paler, airy and nature-inspired pairings will do the trick.

We got the experts involved too, asking designers and color experts, what the best color combinations for dining rooms – this is what they said.

1. Crimson and white

The perfect backdrop for intimate dinner parties, crimson walls create an instantly rich, cozy and luxurious feel.

‘It’s common practice to use lighter colors for larger surfaces like walls, to keep the space open and airy. But recently we are seeing the opposite of that emerge, with walls showcasing dark, bold colors with a crisp white trim,’ says Philippa Radon, color expert at C2 Paints.

Here the white door and woodwork throughout the room work to balance out the light and create a clear and stark contrast. 'A dining room with a color palette of deep red and white is a great way to be bold and make a statement,' says Sandy Yen, founder and principal designer at Yen Collective. 'Layering in warm woods, leathers and velvets will beautifully round out this color scheme,' she adds.

Philippa also points out that it's important to distribute the shades carefully throughout your space. 'Consider your textiles, artwork, and furniture, as the colors used for each must combine to create a cohesive look.'

Here, the plush velvet chairs, textured table and metallic light fitting all bring warmth and a sense of luxury to the space, enhancing the grandeur and drama brought by the crimson walls.

2. Soft blue and black

Pale blue is an inherently relaxing and airy shade ­– pairing it with black gives the hue a sophisticated and grown up edge.

'I always love to use a soft blue in a dining room, especially in a grasscloth wallpaper that adds a little bit of texture to the space. The calming hue sets the tone to sit down, have a good glass of wine and relax,’ says Annie Delaporte at Annie Delaporte Designs.

‘South or west-facing rooms, which receive more sunlight, can handle cooler colors like soft blues and greens, as these cool tones work to balance out the brightness of the light,’ adds Philippa.

3. Black and white

The classic combination is a fail safe choice for any room, but works especially well in a dining room. ‘One of my favorite combinations is a cool, deep and mysterious charcoal with a soft, warm but balanced white,’ says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin Williams.

‘I love using dark colors in dining rooms and pairing with a lighter white or creamy neutral to balance the look. Dark colors are ideal to lend a touch of elegance and drama in rooms used for entertaining guests,’ says Sue.

Here the glossy white marble fireplace and round table contrast against the matt black walls to create definition and form interest through texture.

4. Orange and blue

If your dining room is set to be a space for lively gatherings, games and sprawling weekend lunches with lots of family and friends packed around the table, create a space that fosters high energy and upbeat vibes.

‘For energizing a space, consider vibrant combinations like orange and teal or pink with gray. These colors stimulate and uplift, making them great for areas where you need a boost of energy,’ says Philippa.

Orange and blue sit opposite each other on the color wheel, making them the perfect, lively combination of warm and cool. Here the deep orange is lightened and brightened by the pale blue door and moulding.

5. White on white

If you’ve ever tried out multiple testers of white paint, you’ll know that there are so many variations of the shade. Combining two or three different shades of white can create a look that’s chic and minimalist, without being boring.

'A white-on-white dining room gives an immediate sense of calm, and creates a relaxing atmosphere for dinners and gatherings,' says Sandy.

Varying shades of white is a tried and tested classic for dining rooms. The trick is to divide up your room into two or three sections and paint them in these variations. Here, the paneling, walls, and glazed door are all painted in slightly different shades, creating a feel of depth and interest, while remaining thoroughly light and airy.

'Just make sure to add that final layer and bring in different materials, textures and colors to warm up the white,' adds Sandy. The white boucle chairs and pale oak wood floors bring in texture to the space and prevent it from feeling clinical or cold.

6. Gray and lime

We’ve all heard of the unexpected red theory, but the same rule can be applied to other stand-out colors, such as lime green. In this heavily textured, modern, grey dining room, the lime green chairs add a zingy burst of warmth in the center of the space.

‘If you imagine a landscape, you can see that green harmonizes beautifully with other natural colors such as greys, blues, and browns,’ says Merli Wright, design director at Plain English. ‘Green is always a popular color for interiors as it is one of the main colors associated with the natural world and, as such, has a calming and positive effect on how we feel.'

7. Muted olive and rose

If you want to be creative with your colors but you still want a calm and pared-back feel, combining two muted hues is a great way to go.

‘The dark olive (Bancha, Farrow & Ball) on the banquette creates a feeling of calm when combined with the red-based neutral (Oxford Stone, Farrow & Ball) which is brimming with warmth. Both earthy colors soften the monochrome marble checkboard floor,’ says Ali Johnson, director at Otta Design.

The soft colors are as close to a neutral as you can get, but with a little more warmth and extra oomph. The black and white flooring creates definition and brings a sharper, more dynamic edge to the scheme. ‘The purple and ochre cushions add a burst of vibrancy,’ adds Ali.

8. Yellow and blue

Combining colors that are in total contrast to each other is a sure way to make a statement in a dining room, and combining primary colors is a fun, failsafe way to do this.

'Primary colors can be used to inject color and add a youthful touch to an interior, especially when used in contrast with more pared-back tones,’ says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. 'Pair vibrant primary colors with neutral hues for a bold yet sophisticated scheme,’ he adds.

Here, the simple wooden dining table and oversized white lampshade work to soften the overall look and bring a grown-up and sophisticated feel to this playful scheme.

Dining room color combinations are such an important part of the overall design of the room. These are often quite practical spaces, dominated by furniture which can leave little room for getting creative with decor, so getting creative with your pairings in the obvious way to elevate a dining room.

A French country dining room is meant to be warm, welcoming, and a little bit rustic. They have a certain je ne sais quoi that can be hard to put your finger on. But fret not, we have managed to nail down what makes the timeless charm of this interior design style quite so special.

Effortlessly blending the feeling of countryside living with more sophisticated, luxury details, French country decor embraces natural materials and soothing hues with gilded antique accents for a scheme that would look as much at home in Paris as in a French farmhouse. The hero of this style is its ability to evoke a sense of casual elegance that feels both comfortable and opulent.

So while you don't have to live in France to add some old-world European charm to your dining room, you do have to tick off certain design rules. Here, we spoke to interior designers to help inspire you to create a beautiful French country dining room.

5 French Country Dining Room Ideas

French country design celebrates the beauty of imperfection to create spaces that exude warmth and authenticity. From weathered wooden tables to intricate accents, every element is thoughtfully chosen to evoke the charm of a quaint French home. Whether you're drawn to the cozy warmth of a Provencal-inspired setting or the sophistication of a Parisian apartment, these 5 French country dining room ideas promise to inspire.

1. Choose a subtle, soft color palette

Like starting a mood board, you want to begin with the color palette and build your scheme around that. For a French country decor style, decorating with neutrals is a failproof way to create a serene space. 

Think soft pastels, creams, off-whites, and warm earth tones like muted blues and greens. These colors reflect the soft, diffused light of the French countryside, creating a sense of authenticity to the design. French country style is all about layering textures, so neutral tones will provide a versatile backdrop for layering color through furnishings and accessories. You can then add softness and warmth with plush upholstery in muted tones, and introduce pops of color through throw pillows, rugs, and artwork.

Wallpaper, pattern, and print are also welcome here. 'Your decor doesn’t need to be pristine – far from it,' says Benji Lewis, an interior designer who works between London and France. 'On the contrary, there’s a big case for not over-renovating a home to achieve a look of rustic charm. So, if you have walls with peeling paper then leave them alone, unless, of course, it’s a vinyl type paper... in which case remove it ASAP,' he advises. 

2. Center the room around a large farmhouse table

The centerpiece of any dining room is undoubtedly the table. For a French country aesthetic, a rustic farmhouse-style table will look sturdy yet inviting and help to entice large gatherings of family and friends. Crafted from reclaimed or distressed wood, these tables exude charm while providing ample seating for parties of all sizes.

'Set the tone for a French country dining room by anchoring the space with a beautiful wooden dining table, complete with details like ornate woodworking and a bit of artful weathering on the wood,' suggests interior designer Kathy Kuo. 'Accent your table with pieces like linen-covered chairs with nailhead trim, an intricate chandelier, and an antiqued wall mirror. Slightly rustic table linen and traditional stoneware vases and pitchers also help to enhance a Provencal aesthetic,' advises Kathy.

Benji agrees. 'You really want your guests to be comfortable and stay at the dining table to make whatever occasion you’re enjoying as lovely as possible, so consider using comfy armchairs as dining chairs,' he suggests. 'An upholstered seat is going to be far more conducive for this than a wooden bench.'

3. Hang dramatic and dynamic lighting

As we all know, lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood for dinner. Too low and no one will be able to see what you're serving up, but too bright and the entire meal will feel sterile and austere. 

'A French country dining room should be warm, welcoming, and casual with dramatic lighting,' says interior designer Gray Walker. 'A hand-painted table, high-backed chairs atop a natural rug with grand lighting, and a few prominent antiques will create this aesthetic,' she advises.

Opt for fixtures that exude character and charm, such as wrought iron chandeliers or vintage-inspired pendant lights, to create a sense of drama and intrigue – but be sure not to overwhelm the space. Combining overhead lighting with wall sconces, table lamps, and candlelight allows you to create an ambient glow for all manner of occasions. 

'Including candlelight on your dining table is imperative,' says Benji. 'I like to position a tea light at each place setting and then I use tall glass candle holders at different heights in the center of the table. However, candlelight alone will likely not suffice for the practical purpose of eating – so back up the ambient lighting with a table lamp or two.'

'I love an antique chandelier, not for the light they give but for the decorative impact they provide,' he adds. 'Position one centrally over the dining table but be sure to have it on a dimmer so that you’re not eating under the glare of overhead light.'

4. All French country dining room should have some antiques

Antique pieces add a sense of authenticity and charm to French country interiors, infusing the space with stories of bygone eras. From weathered chairs to intricately carved buffets, decorating with antiques will anchor the room in tradition.

Look for pieces that showcase unique detailing. Antique furniture with hand-carved accents and distressed finishes adds texture and depth to the space, giving you that sense of rustic-meets-refinement. Incorporating pieces with a rich patina adds character to the room, suggests Benji Lewis.

'A vintage buffet or sideboard is integral to include in your dining room,' he suggests. 'I prefer these to a console for the simple reason that you can store the crockery you use on the dining table within the cupboards.' 

In addition to furniture vintage accessories and decor accents can also work in a French country dining room. Vintage textiles like embroidered table linens and curtains bring a sense of romance to the space that is so intrinsic to the design style. Accessorize with silverware, crystal glassware, and porcelain dishes to elevate the dining experience for both you and your guests.

5. Dress the table with linens and florals

When dressing the table, consider the role of your linens and decorative centerpieces in the overall scheme. Select linens that reflect the relaxed sophistication of French country style like tablecloths and napkins in muted tones or delicate patterns to evoke the charm of a French farmhouse.

'The French do antique linen so well, to create a feeling of relaxed glamour use crisp white napkins with vintage napkin rings,' advises Benji. 'Large napkins have an extra decadence about them, if you can’t find these then look for a set of antique tea towels and substitute these as napkins instead,' he suggests.

Fresh florals will also add color and vibrancy to the space and are a hallmark of French country dining room decor. Incorporating florals into the centerpiece or as individual place settings with bud vases will bring a touch of whimsy to the dinner table, creating a feast for the senses. 'Cut flowers from the garden are great to include in a preloved porcelain vase,' adds Benji.

The dining table is where memories are made and stories are shared, so by dressing the table with care and attention to detail, you can create a dining experience that is as beautiful as it is memorable.

French country dining rooms combine welcoming rustic comfort with refinement and elegance. Using a warming color palette, patinated materials, subtle patterns, and antique accents, this ever-popular aesthetic creates an inviting, polished, and lived-in look. Get inspired by these ideas from interior designers to help you strike a balance of old meets new and rustic meets refined in your home.

A modern farmhouse dining room is one that blends rustic charm with nostalgia and elements of contemporary design. It should be warm, welcoming, and ready for hosting in an instant. 

Modern farmhouse ideas are the perfect mix of old and new. Think reclaimed tables with black dining chairs, or shiplap walls in a modern hue with minimalist accessories. It's all about striking that balance and doing so in a way that feels unique to you and your home.

Whether you want to spruce up your dining room or create a cozy kitchen nook, the modern farmhouse aesthetic lends itself beautifully to a variety of spaces. From sourcing antiques to nailing your dining room color scheme, these modern farmhouse dining room ideas are sure to inspire your scheme. Here's what the experts want you to know.

9 Modern Farmhouse Dining Room Ideas

Modern farmhouse style is a fusion of farmhouse warmth and contemporary flair, offering the best of both worlds in comfort and sophistication. If you're looking to exude an inviting ambiance in your dining room that beckons family and friends to gather for hearty meals and even heartier conversations, perhaps this design style might be the one for you. 

Depending on your taste, a transitional design dining room can lean more traditional or contemporary. So long as you look to blend old and new, and always keep things feeling cozy. These 9 modern farmhouse dining room ideas should offer plenty of inspiration for bringing this timeless style into your home.

1. Start with a soft color palette

A soft, muted color palette sets the stage for an inviting atmosphere. Not only this, but it will allow you to layer up your design with texture, decor pieces, and patterns without it all feeling too much.

Interior designer Jillian Kliewer, who designed the space above, says: 'The large photograph by artist Sean Pierce was the main inspiration for this dining room. The modern, rustic, and vintage farmhouse pieces were all informed by the art's color palette.'

When selecting colors for your dining space, consider tones that evoke the feeling of nature. Soft greens can infuse the room with a subtle hint of rustic charm, while pale blues will feel super serene. Warm clay pinks would also work lovely with the mix of woods in a modern farmhouse dining room. Decorating with neutrals will of course create a sense of warmth and coziness while maintaining a fresh, contemporary feel.

'I think we are removing away from the cookie-cutter, modern farmhouse look that we have seen so much of in the recent past,' says designer Mindy Laven. 'We are using color instead of simply painting it white. To me, this feels a bit more authentic, and a little less trite than we have seen in the past. Moody paint colors and fabrics add to the ambiance of this updated farmhouse look.'

2. Create texture with shiplap

Whether you add it to the wall at full or half-height, a ceiling treatment, or even incorporate it into furniture pieces like built-in cabinetry or dining benches, shiplap is a mainstay in modern farmhouse style. Renowned for its ability to add texture, character, and a touch of rustic charm to any space, paneling ideas for walls lend themself to a variety of applications.

'The key to modern farmhouse design is layered textures – the more the merrier,' says Courtnay Tartt Elias, founder of Creative Tonic Design. 'Traditionally farmhouse elements like wood dining tables with a lovely patina or shiplap walls read more modern when paired with bright fabrics seen in drapery or upholstery. Wood dining chairs with an aged finish can be updated with bold upholstery next to a modern tulip table. The fun is in the mixture of elements of various styles,' she adds.

For a more traditional farmhouse look, opt for natural wood shiplap with a weathered finish. Alternatively, you can paint the shiplap in a crisp white or soft neutral tone for a more contemporary twist.

3. Mix patterns and prints

This interior design style is all about an eclectic mix. Combining patterns and prints is a great way to infuse personality into even the smallest of spaces. It allows you to play with scale, color, and texture.

'Modern Farmhouse is an aesthetic that consciously steers away from schemes and mood boards,' explains Cathy Nordström. 'Furniture and decorative objects should be flea market finds and antiques, and, when it comes to pattern and textiles, ginghams, checks, and stripes are key. Nothing really needs to match, which conveys warmth and a sense of embrace. It’s a great look for family homes as it’s not too precious.'

It's essential to strike a balance between cohesion and contrast. The key is to blend patterns that share a common color palette or theme so start by selecting a dominant pattern or print as your anchor, such as a classic gingham or subtle floral motif. From there, layer in complementary patterns of varying scales and textures to create intrigue.

4. Gravitate towards natural materials

Natural materials are not just trendy but are a timeless way to create an authentic and inviting dining space. 

Wood, stone, metal, and textiles derived from natural fibers are hallmark materials in modern farmhouse dining rooms. These materials bring a tactile quality that creates a welcoming atmosphere for gatherings.

'So much of it comes down to materials used,' says Tori Murphy. 'Natural materials that speak for themselves and have a sense of character, while imperfections are allowed to shine through. Layers of fabrics like cotton, wool, and linens should all be well-loved and softened with age. Gentle hues in paint colors, timber, and stone act as the perfect backdrop for possessions that are gathered considerately over time.'

Opting for solid wood furniture pieces, such as dining tables crafted from reclaimed wood, adds a sense of history and character to the room. Don't be afraid to mix your wood tones and eras when sourcing pieces.

5. Include a large table for gathering

At the heart of every dining room lies a table for gathering, sharing meals, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. So of course in a modern farmhouse setting, the table is incredibly important.

'The anchor of any modern farmhouse dining room should always be a really beautiful dining table that exudes a cozy farmhouse aesthetic, but also features a distinctly modern look with clean lines and of-the-moment design elements,' suggests Kathy Kuo. 

'A great table will serve as the perfect canvas for seasonal decor elements that also complement a modern farmhouse look. Think chic table runners for different seasons, modern vases in organic shapes and colors, and artisanal dishware that feels equal parts relaxed and luxurious.'

Solid wood tables with a distressed or weathered finish are particularly well-suited to the rustic charm of farmhouse style, adding a sense of history to the space. Just be sure to balance the look with more contemporary dining chairs.

6. And perfectly mis-matched chairs

Use mismatched seating to create a more casual dining space that still feels designed. Most dining room furniture ideas are focused on being symmetrical and matching but with modern farmhouse style, you want things to feel more effortless and thrown together.

Designer Paloma Contreras chose to anchor the head of her table with a linen slip-covered dining chair with arms that look oh-so-comfortable. The mix of a pale oak table and more contemporary black chairs nails the balance of old and new this design style calls for.

While a few chairs around the table may have their own style, material, or finish, it is crucial that there should be a unifying factor to create visual harmony. This could be a shared color palette, similar silhouette, or common design motif. Experiment with different combinations until you find a mix that feels curated yet casual.

7. Go big on lighting and accessories

The right lighting, decor, and accessories can transform a space, adding depth, drama, and personality. In a modern farmhouse dining room, embracing oversized lighting fixtures and statement accessories is essential for creating cohesion between the old and the new.

A large, statement chandelier or pendant lights will serve as the focal point of the space, meaning you don't have to do much styling below. However, a textured rug or a vignette of decorative objects on the table won't go amiss. Incorporate oversized mirrors, artwork, and decorative objects like vintage vases, ceramics, or woven baskets to add layers of charm and personality.

'Modern farmhouse dining rooms blend the warmth and charm of traditional farmhouse style with sleek, contemporary elements,' says Denise Morrison of Morrison Interiors. 'Incorporate industrial-inspired lighting fixtures and comfortable, upholstered seating for a touch of sophistication. Whether it's a formal dinner party or a casual family gathering, modern farmhouse dining rooms offer a perfect balance of comfort and style,' she adds.

8. Bring in antiques

If cozy, old-world charm is what you're after, then seek out vintage pieces and antique finds. When selecting pieces for your dining room, consider vintage or decorating with antique pieces that resonate with the farmhouse aesthetic, tell a story, and complement your design vision.

'We created a modern farmhouse feel in this dining room by using an antique scalloped wood table,' says interior designer Jennifer Barron, who designed the dining room above. 'Bringing in this large wood piece instantly created a farmhouse feel with its rich patina.'

'The distressed white chandelier paired with the brass gilded mirror elevates the room to a space that feels more modern and a touch less casual. The wallpaper is the finishing touch – bringing in butterflies and greenery, one is reminded of the elements of nature, all while staying clean and fresh in design.'

Look for vintage furniture, such as a farmhouse table, sideboard, or hutch, that showcases craftsmanship and patina. While vintage sellers tend to prioritize wood finishes, be sure to mix in other materials such as iron, metal, brick, and stone for a more modern vibe.

9. Try rustic wood or terracotta floors

Rustic wood and terracotta floors are quintessential elements of farmhouse design, offering durability, charm, and a connection to the natural world. 

Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra, says: 'Terracotta tiles make for a floor that’s rich and warming to the eye and is both earthy and textured underfoot, making it the perfect addition to modern farmhouse dining rooms.'

'Choosing terracotta flooring means you’ll have a floor that is ready to embrace life’s rough and tumble while never looking anything less than 100% stylish, especially given that warming, nurturing colors and textures and dominating interiors right now.'

The flooring of a dining room plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the space, and opting for wood or stone floors can add warmth, texture, and character that epitomize the farmhouse aesthetic.

In the modern farmhouse dining room, every detail tells a story and every choice reflects a commitment to comfort, authenticity, and the joy of shared experiences. Whether you're drawn to the cozy, lived-in feel or the eclectic mix of textures and patterns, there's a scheme to suit every taste and preference. The most successful ones have the perfect balance between old and new, embrace natural materials, and pieces that tell a story. 

Nate Berkus is one of interior design's biggest names for a reason – time and time again, he curates spaces that are full of character, charm, and a tasteful mix of old and new. 

When any designer brings a design element or piece of furniture into their own home, it's safe to say they've given it a stamp of approval. So, when Nate shows off his family's home – which he shares with just-announced Queer Eye star Jeremiah Brent – on social media, we pay extra attention.

Recently, the world-renowned designer took to Instagram to share his dining room – and the space is a masterclass in his interior design style. Though it's a stunning example of transitional style, the room means so much more than a collection of lovely furniture to Nate. This is what we love about the space.

In the photo's caption, Nate shares that the dining room table is the place where his family eats meals, where his kids do homework, where they host gatherings and so much more: 'So full of incredible life moments, big and small. For me, this is what design is about.'

The heartfelt attention to detail Nate brings to every project shows in this space especially. With a warm, inviting color palette, lush textures, and stunning city views, the dining room feels like it belongs to a family – and not a picture-perfect showroom – while still delivering on high-end design.

With a comfort-forward, built-in booth decked out in plush, striped cushions on one side of the table, the seating arrangement looks oh-so-cozy. And its juxtaposition against a full wall of antique-style tile mirrors makes for a bold statement that pulls the room together. Sophisticated brown leather armchairs line the other side of the table, tying into the space's modern organic color scheme.

Framing the seating area are two built-in, floor-to-ceiling cabinets holding all the hosting essentials, and a meshed cover provides a clean look while still allowing easy access. Plus, the cabinetry's paint color blends with the New York City apartment's historic ceiling trim – an intricate detail that adds so much character to the space. Herringbone-pattern hardwood flooring grounds the room, too, offering the perfect dose of warmth and charm.

The lighting in this room is unsurprisingly well-considered, and clearly layered for a cozy, moody atmosphere. With a sculptural overhead fixture and two mirrored sconces framing the bench, the family is able to eat in a well-lit space without being overwhelmed by harsh overheads. A small, unique table lamp adorns the dining table as well, along with a serving bowl and ornate salt and pepper shakers.

The dining room layout blends into a living room area, with floor-to-ceiling views of New York City, plus a cozy boucle chair. A modern dresser and antique gold mirror round out the space, sandwiched between tall picture windows. And perhaps our favorite part of the space is its flow into Nate and Jeremiah's kitchen – another of their rooms we admire. A faint reflection of the marble-clad, bright and airy kitchen can be seen in the wall of mirrors and can be found through an expansive doorway.

This dining room is a clear representation of Nate's timeless, transitional design, and there's so much to love – from its high ceilings and city views to carefully chosen pieces of furniture, no detail was overlooked. And as if that wasn't enough, this dining room hosts family meals and daily conversation. We can't help but agree with Nate on this one – this really is what design is about.

A Scandinavian dining room scheme should capture the design elements of this simplistic interior style. For most people, every room in the home seems to need more than one function, so making these spaces feel open and organized has never been more important. That's where this enduring design style comes into play.

Light, bright spaces are key to Scandinavian decor, so whether you're working with a spacious room or a zone attached to your kitchen, there are plenty of dining room ideas for a Nordic-inspired refresh. 

From the minimalist color palette to the sleek lines and clutter-free spaces, there are plenty of easy ways to add an err Scandinavian style to your dining room. Below are some interior designer-approved schemes to help you achieve this paired-back aesthetic.

 Scandinavian dining room ideas 

Minimalists rejoice – Scandinavian style is still in for 2024. From the neutral color palette to the wood finishes and clean lines, these Scandinavian dining room ideas are the perfect inspiration if you're planning a re-do.

1. Decorate with warm white hues

Decorating with neutrals leans perfectly into the Scandinavian style, and what better color to choose than a refreshing shade of white? Not only will it make your dining room feel bright and open, but it will also give you the option to add more saturated hues through the decor.

'White still seems the dominant white for Scandinavian interiors, but rather than using a brilliant, clinical white, select a more nuanced off-white shade such as Shaded White or School House White,' says Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball. 

Warmer hues will create a space that feels inviting and homely, and pairs seamlessly with an abundance of other paint colors and furniture finishes. 

2. Introduce natural wood tones

Scandinavian design features a lot of natural wood tones, so introduce wooden furniture to add a sense of Scandi style. 'The key to creating a Scandinavian dining room is to infuse it with warmth and a sense of ease, so it feels truly homely and comfortable,' explains Kashi Shikunova, director at Yam Studios.

'One of the foundational elements I always incorporate is wood, whether it's in the form of the table, chairs, or even integrated into the surrounding walls and ceiling, wood brings a natural warmth that instantly elevates the ambiance,' she adds.

A beautiful contrast of finishes has been introduced to this Scandinavian dining room scheme. Light wood paneling has been added on the far wall, while a black table has been paired with medium-tone wood on the chairs. The result is a cohesive design that feels minimal, yet retains a sense of character.

3. Create an open, airy scheme

Designing a Scandinavian dining room doesn't have to capture every element of the style – introducing a few characteristics can be just as successful. In particular, try adopting the open and airy atmosphere that Scandinavian design is known for. This works particularly well in open-plan spaces, like this home in New York.

'Creating the perfect Scandi-style dining room comes down to keeping everything open and airy! I designed the room in my NY Hudson Retreat project around that very principle, centering the table in the space to allow guests to enjoy each other's company while having an unobstructed view of both the surrounding living area and the beautiful outdoor scenery,' says interior designer Lindye Galloway.

4. Opt for statement pendant lights

Lighting is key to any dining room, but to infuse Scandinavian style, opt for large pendant lights for an eye-catching detail. 'I love to add pendant lighting above the table,' says Kashi. 

'Not only does it provide practical illumination, but it also adds a touch of homely visual interest. When the lights are on, there's a certain magic that fills the room, creating a cozy atmosphere where everyone feels drawn together.' she adds.

Choosing the right dining room lighting is key to ensuring your design feels cohesive. Stick to a minimal color scheme and try to introduce tones that have been used elsewhere in the room. In this dining room, white shades have been added to match the dining chairs, while the light brown detailing offers a nod to the wood tones used in the space.

5. Add bolder colors through decor

Scandinavian design might embrace neutrals for the main color palette, but there's still space for introducing more saturated hues. If you have a more maximalist style, there are a few bolder shades that work perfectly in a Scandinavian dining room to infuse some vibrant personality.

'For a bolder Scandinavian palette, consider our Nordic Edit of colors. Invigorating shades like Arsenic, Babouche, and Mere Green can be combined for an impactful dining scheme that makes an impression, while still retaining a distinctly Scandinavian aesthetic,' says Patrick. 

Try using these hues more creatively rather than applying them to the walls – in this scheme, a dresser has been painted in an eye-catching shade of blue.

Warm white hues paired with saturated shades, clean lines, and open, airy spaces are core to creating a Scandinavian dining room scheme. Keep things simple when it comes to color and decor – keep surfaces uncluttered and embrace natural wood accents. As much as this design style embraces simplicity, don't be afraid to add a playful touch – a pop of color or pattern can add much-needed interest to a scheme.

In a recent home renovation, Shea McGee took a magic wand to the dining room, adding stunning design details beautiful character. The sun-drenched space is part of an open-plan ground floor, but feels like a defined space of its own – and some clever, last-minute design decisions made the final product possible.

Though each and every design element is thoughtfully chosen for the dining room ideas, a botanical wallpaper selection takes the space to a new level, and Shea says she loves the statement pattern. Here's an inside look into the designer's new dining room – a standout room from her home remodel – with specific products and behind-the-scenes details.

The McGee remodel was all about adding character and traditional details – Shea wanted the home to look historic. And the dining room was no exception to the greater goal. 'In our dining room, we added instead of taking away,' Shea says in a YouTube video exploring the finished dining room.

Although the dining room already had gorgeous ceiling detailing before the renovation, Shea wanted to add even more of her signature modern charm to the space. The first step was creating a bit more separation from the adjoining kitchen, making the dining room an area of its own. 

To create more space, Shea added sidelight windows and paneling, making the room's design feel intricate yet expansive. The final result is sun-soaked and comforting, and the room maintains the historic appeal Shea was after.

'It didn’t close off the room in a way where it feels smaller, but it does feel like it’s its own space now instead of just part of the kitchen. I love that because this is our only dining space – we don’t have a formal and casual dining space,' she says in the video.

While the space was beautiful as is, Shea says she knew it needed wallpaper from the beginning – the only issue was she couldn't find the perfect pattern. She wanted to accentuate the room's high ceilings and give the dining room more distinctive character.

'I have a lot of space above, and I wanted the dining room wallpaper to feel like it was growing up and over the windows,' she says.

After sorting through samples, Shea says she landed on a 17th century-style wallpaper from Pierre Frey in a stunning botanical pattern. She'd been holding onto a fabric sample with the pattern for years, but made the call to wallpaper the space at the very last second of the renovation. Now, she says the room is 'completely transformed.'

'I just knew it was the one. My favorite color is green so I’m never going to get tired of it, and it’s a leafy, floral vibe. I’d wear this pattern, I would decorate in this pattern, it’s just the right thing for this space. I love that when you walk into our home in the entryway, you can look back to this room and see it,' says Shea.

The green accent wallpaper meshes beautifully with the room's warm neutral color scheme, which is held down by a McGee favorite – Swiss Coffee from Benjamin Moore. With tones of cream, brown and green throughout the space in the form of house plants, expansive curtains and stylish McGee & Co. furniture, the space is inviting and welcoming to all. It fits in with the whole home's color scheme seamlessly.

Shea brings organic texture with the addition of a Braided Jute Rug from McGee & Co., which also serves to separate the dining space from the kitchen. Shea says the dining room rug is 'one of [her] favorite pieces,' adding that the previous space didn't have a rug – and for good reason.

'In our previous dining look, I didn’t have a rug in this space, and it was mainly because I had little kids and I thought that there would be a lot of spills on the rug. Then, I lived in the home for a while, and realized that my kids love to eat at the kitchen island. So, we don’t eat at this table as often as in our kitchen, and we could handle a rug,' says Shea. 

When designing dining rooms for clients, Shea says she often gets the question of whether a rug is required. Speaking from personal experience, she says rugs are nice to have in formal dining rooms, but are a more personal decision when placed in more casual, off-the-kitchen spaces. There, you'll have to assess your family's lifestyle and see if a rug is a good fit.

Aside from the rug, the finished dining room features other standout pieces from McGee & Co., including an Orville Extension Dining Table and Sascha Slipcover Dining Chairs, which add a soothing white hue to the warm space.

'As I went down the path of creating a new look for this space, I wanted to try out some of our new McGee & Co. pieces, and I fell in love with this table that has the clipped corners. It also is an extension table. I host a lot, and so with a few feet on either side left in this space, I knew I could expand the table and add a few more guests,' says Shea.

Shea adds that she appreciates how the clipped corners of the dining table pair with the light fixture – a gold, sculptural, modern chandelier. 'The shapes complement each other really well,' she says. For the dining chairs, the team opted for a 'cottage, homey' feel, pairing the intricate design with cushions from Shea's collection with Target.

'We really mixed high and low in this space, and I’m all about that,' says Shea. 

As for the end chairs (gorgeous armchairs in white linen), Shea recognizes they're quite a controversial decision for a space dedicated to dining: 'I know you’re hearing white linen and thinking I’m crazy, but mom and dad are the only ones who get to sit on the white linen chairs.'

This dining room refresh achieves the transitional look Shea was after with ease, blending traditional design elements with modern pops of color and sculpture. A gem within an overall successful home transformation, this room provides an endless supply of design inspiration.

When thinking about dining room furniture trends, your thoughts will probably go to the obvious focus on table and chairs but it's easy to forget about the other pieces that can make a dining room feel elevated and practical.

Dining rooms are centered around socializing – whether you're sitting down with the family or hosting a dinner party, this room should offer a balance of function and style. The furniture you choose is key to this, from a large table and a comfy sofa, to surfaces to display decor and store extra dinnerware.

Whether you're working with a separate room or an open-plan space, these dining room furniture trends will ensure you are ready for any scale of hosting and dining. Dining rooms have become multi-purpose spaces, used for more than just eating so this year's trends focus on differing styles that aren't your typical furniture.

 Dining room furniture trends to switch up your space this year

Dining room furniture is more than just the standard table and chairs. Character, storage, and interest can all be added through additional pieces, so consider what style of furniture would make the biggest difference in your space.

1. Bring in a hutch extra storage

If you're working with a larger dining room, or simply have a lot of extra space, introducing a larger piece of furniture against the wall is often a perfect addition. Here, you can display decorative items, and artworks, or add additional dining room lighting, as well as benefiting from extra storage space. Dining room storage that doubles as decor is a big trend for 2025, so the sideboard is the perfect piece to bring into your space. It provides storage and is also a way to show off a vintage glass collection or to prop up a print.

It's not unusual to have a lot of empty wall space in a dining room, so introducing small furniture items that sit to one side can add a focal point, as well as space to display decor. 'One of the main furniture pieces I like to include in my dining rooms is a stunning antique sideboard,' says Kristen Scharer of Kristen Scharer Interiors.

'The sideboard itself maximizes the functionality of your dining room by allowing space for a gorgeous dessert or beverage display during large gatherings. It also adds space for seasonal decor to enhance your tablespace, as well as dining room storage for special occasion dishware, flatware, and table linens.' she adds.

Bailey Todd from White Cliff Studio is very much in agreement. She says, 'If there is room I always suggest having a sideboard or hutch in your dining room. They allow for everyday storage and this particular one has a mix of hidden storage and open storage to display some of your nicer pieces.'

2. Add a sofa or banquette

Any communal area needs a sofa as it's the best way to house guests neatly and stylishly. Sofas aren't just for the living room, they work in dining spaces too as they fulfill all of your needs in terms of both practicality and comfort.

There's been a shift away from traditional dining rooms in recent months, as they can have a cold formality that homeowners have started to lose appreciation for. The need for relaxed dining spaces is only increasing with living room-meet-dining room combos becoming more and more popular.

Banquette-style seating is the most obvious and popular dining room sofa choice. When it comes to banquette sofas, the clue is in the name. Reminiscent of retro diner booths, they are the ideal choice for eating as they're plushy and intimate and encourage guests to chat amongst themselves. If you're looking to create a dining room nook, banquette seating should be at the top of your list.

If you're limited on space, try switching out your traditional dining room chairs for a practical and space-efficient bench. Usually compact, benches can easily slide under a table or tuck into a corner of a room. They're also great for extra seating guests when hosting a dinner or celebration.

3. Shop vintage for a quality dining table

It simply wouldn't be a dining room without a dining table. Instead of opting for something average, make a statement with a large, well-made wooden table. Not only will it look great, but it will last a lot longer than less sturdy alternatives.

Quality is far more important than the superficial appearance of furniture, particularly when it comes to a frequently-used piece like the dining room table. The collected home trend centers around investing in key pieces that have been carefully considered. This is where vintage becomes your best friend as you can often find lasting and chic pieces at reasonable price points.

'I love REALLY big long dining tables. They feel so grand,' says Bailey Todd, of White Cliff Studio. A large, beautifully crafted dining table really takes the spotlight in a dining room and offers plenty of space to add dining table decor, so you can get away with a more minimal theme for the rest of the room.

If you're worried a bigger table will look too crowded, or you feel you don't host often enough to get enough use out of it, consider an adjustable table that can cater to different requirements. 'If you don't have the space for a really large dining table, I love our Double Extendable Table. It's simple and the extension easily folds into itself so you can switch from your everyday table to dinner party mode in a matter of seconds,' Bailey adds.

4. Try a cabinet that doubles up as a bar cart

Being able to add extra storage in your dining room is always a bonus, but you don't want to add so much furniture that the space begins to feel crowded. An easy way to strike a balance here is to introduce dining room furniture that offers more than one function. The bar cart face some backlash from the Gen Z decorators in 2024, and while we still love them for 2025 the trend will focus more on bar cabinets that can stylishly house your drinking glasses and bottles.

Bar carts are great for adding to a dining room as they can be wheeled into any room that guests gather in. But the bar cabinet is its chicer sister. It's a more permanent piece where everything can be stored in one place. Bar cabinets can house tableware like plates, glasses, and napkins, making setting the table and pouring drinks so much easier.

David Mann, President of MR Architecture + Decor, added an industrial steel bar cabinet to his dining room, and has given it two functions to make the most of his space. He says, 'The bar cabinet is a useful piece as it is great for storing dishes, linens, extra silverware, etc,' he explains, adding 'In addition, the top can be used for barware and as an area to prepare drinks.'

5. Incorporate a serving table

Anyone who loves to host dinner parties knows that there is never enough space for all the food, drinks, and serveware on the dining table alone. As such, introducing additional space for the extras can make all the difference, and help your dinner parties flow more seamlessly.

'Here, I used a folding wallpaper table which as a server,' says David Mann. 'This is a useful piece as it provides an additional surface on which to set out food, whether a buffet or hors d’oeuvres,' he adds. The dark, rustic wood of the table adds a lovely contrast to the more minimalist color palette used on the walls.

Sideboards do a great job of holding dining ware and can be decorated according to the occasion. It's easy to make a sideboard into a centerpiece and the great thing about using a table that can be moved and stored away is that you don't have to keep it out all the time if you don't want to. Simply bring it out when the need calls, and put it away when you're in need of extra space.

Choosing the right dining room furniture is all about balancing visual appeal with practical functions. 2025 calls for curation and consideration, so source pieces that will endure – whether they're antiques or well-crafted contemporary items. And, most importantly, make sure the furniture you choose works for your space and how you use it.

Big or small space, knowing how to declutter a dining room properly can see your home go from a little overworked and tired-looking to being the life and soul of an evening in a chic way. 

We all know too well that, especially in a hybrid home, no matter how beautiful our dining room tables are, they are subject to all manner of paperwork, children's toys, and, naturally, a cup of coffee or two. 

So where should we start if it has all gone a little too far?

How to declutter a dining room

We spoke to professional organizers to learn their secrets because the fact that you have read this far is a silent indicator that your dining room might be looking a little disheveled. If you are simply curious, you might learn an extra trick or two to maintain an organized and streamlined dining room space.

'Maybe your dining room isn’t used frequently, or maybe it’s used all the time, but chances are most of us could use some decluttering and organization,' says Ami McKay, creator of PURE Design. Here is what to do according to the experts.

1. Start with a fresh slate

Though we might like to think our dining rooms are designed (and reserved) solely for enjoying meals, we know this is not the case, and it is easy for all types of household clutter to pile up on the table itself or in the surrounding environment. As when organizing any other space in the home, a ruthless purge of items that do not belong here is necessary. 

'Begin by clearing surfaces such as tables and counters,' recommends Janelle Cohen, professional organizer and creator of Straighten it Up. 'This provides a clean canvas for organizing and creates a more visually appealing and spacious atmosphere.'

If deciding what to get rid feels overwhelming, our next expert suggests going by timeframe. 'First and foremost, get rid of anything you haven’t used in the last six months,' insists Julianna Melamed, founder of Full Service Living. 'Donate, throw out , sell it - just get it out of your precious space.'

2. Group and edit your collection

The next area of focus should be on consolidating your dining room belongings in a way that makes sense. Ami shares a simple strategy: 'For decluttering, pull out your items and spread them out on the table; stemware, flatware, dinnerware, serving dishes, and linens. Then decide what to do with the items you are decluttering. 

'Try to edit your collection to what you use and what you love. Sometimes we feel guilty letting things go but think of how happy someone else will be to find your pre-loved items!'

With more of a capsule dining room collection, you will be able to give them order, and understand what your dining room space needs to accommodate everything in a stylish and functional way.

'Next, sort and group like items together so they are easy to store and find,' continues Ami. Depending on how much glassware you have to organize, this could mean making champagne glasses a category, or a sub-category, only you will know.

3. Be ruthless with flat surfaces

We are looking directly at the dining room table here but also at visible open decorative shelving and cabinets where 'things' naturally gravitate to.

'The most impactful but possibly the hardest place to start decluttering in the dining room is usually the dining room table,' says Angela O'Brian, a professional organizer and founder of Your Space Reclaimed. 'It is a big flat surface that just seems to invite items to land on it, especially if it is only used when company comes or on special occasions.'

4. Focus on dining room drop off zones

Just like a drop zone in an entryway can help keep it organized, this strategy can work in a dining space, too, preventing unnecessary items from accumulating on the table.

'I find that my clients tend to take advantage of the large flat surface of the dining room table because it is likely only used for company and formal occasions,' continues Angela. 'It becomes a sort of drop zone for items that either don't have a place or can't seem to find their way to their designated spot.' 

This is the moment to bring in solutions that will ease the anxiety that comes with keeping too many things without order. 'Creating a separate drop zone in perhaps the kitchen or a mud room can help alleviate those feelings and bring back the intended importance of the dining room.'

5. Double down on storage

With a drop zone at the ready for more fleeting items, you can turn to housing the residing pieces in a way that will not visually clutter a dining room space.   

'To keep things organized, dining room storage is key,' says Ami. 'Whether you choose to have millwork cupboards designed and installed or find a few beautiful antique or vintage pieces such as a sideboard and/or buffet, it is best to have your dining room items stored away when not in use.' Cabinets, buffets, and styled dining room hutches all make swell options. Explore what might work for your family and dining room collection.

'Once you declutter a dining room, you will know what kind of storage you need to accommodate all the things you need,' adds Julianna.

'If you have a long, narrow dining space, consider a sideboard and wall-mounted built-in storage. The sideboard will also double as an area for serving when using the space. If you have a wider, shorter space, purchase a tall wall unit that goes from floor to ceiling. You can also use decorative baskets or bins to store extra linens, serving ware, or other dining accessories.'

Julianna likes this tall cabinet from Amazon, particularly for shorter, wider spaces. It is similar to the Brookside storage cabinet we've spotted at Target.

Sideboards and built-in wall hang storage are also brilliant choices. Plus, a buffet is easily styled when given thought and employing a little patience. And if you need baskets for linens, Julianna recommends this large rope blanket basket with a lid from Amazon. 

6. Display the 'necessary clutter', beautifully

Your favorite dinnerware is likely the most beautiful, and giving it function when it is out of use will make dining room storage work much harder.'Outside of the typical sideboard, buffet table, or hutch, one of the best ways to "conceal" necessary clutter in the dining room is by displaying it,' Angela says. Look to open shelving or mix functional and stylish pieces cleverly.

Tables do not often have storage so you might need to invest in multifunctional, and beautiful pieces. With lots of offer nowadays, rest aussured it is possible. 'A sideboard is a great piece of furniture to invest in to store items you might want in the dining room and there are options available in many sizes and shapes,' adds Lindsey Mahanna of Clutter to Clarity Home Organizing LLC. 'Shelving hung up on the wall is another way to store clutter without taking up floor space that may be needed for chairs and other items. A beautiful platter or vase could also be left out as decoration when not in use.'

Where can I put everything in my dining room?

Whether you have a big or small dining room, making the most of all four walls will free up floor space and essentially make your space feel less cluttered and visually heavy. 'Utilizing the vertical space in the room with open or floating shelves can make for both a functional and beautiful space, especially if you have your grandmother's china or a beloved collection of cups and saucers you just can't part with,' notes Angela. 'Displaying these items on a wall can be a win-win. You free up valuable floor space and get to enjoy them every day.'

How can you declutter a dining room when you have a big family?

'It is all about good habits when you still have many items to keep in place. Establish a post-meal routine for clearing and organizing,' says Janelle Cohen, professional organizer. 'Involve all family members in maintaining order to distribute the responsibility.' 

You want to make sure that storage works very hard too. 'Consider multi-functional furniture, like dining tables with storage, to accommodate the needs of a larger family. Add labels to storage solutions so that there is no miscommunication about where things go, and everyone can feel ownership over the space.'

Once this space is decluttered, styling your out-of-use dining table can be the perfect inspiration to keep it clear. Let this not be an excuse to drop items elsewhere in the surrounding area, where they do not belong, but be wood in the fire to keep an organized dining room going every season.

Formal dining rooms will always have a place in interior design, but the way in which we use our homes is always ever-changing, and there are many dining room alternatives that can feel more in sync with our style and space.

A dining room is an area where we gather with friends and family to enjoy meals, and even though these separate rooms are great for entertaining, there are many other spaces in the home that can be just as good, if not better, to dine in. 

From incorporating a central dining space in your kitchen, to making the most of an open-plan living room, these dining room alternatives can help you to create more open, multifunctional, and unique dining areas in the home.

6 innovative alternatives to a dining room

'Think outside the room when it comes to dining spaces in your home. Forget about strict room labels and design each space based on how you live. Just because a room is deemed a room by tradition alone, that does not mean it matches with today's way of living. Take advantage of special features like floor-to-ceiling windows and letting your lifestyle guide the way for personalized dining experiences throughout your home. Re-think each space as to how you live in it and design it as so,' says interior designer, Kimberly Armstrong.

1. Kitchens

One of the most common dining room alternatives and modern kitchen ideas is to include a dining area in a kitchen. 

'Kitchens make wonderful multi-functional areas for eating meals. With open floor plans now standard in newer homes, it's easy to continue conversations between cooks and diners. We often design kitchen islands with seating on at least two sides to comfortably accommodate 4-6 people. Additional stools tucked under the island can also provide even more kitchen island seating and more casual spots for dining and relaxing,' says interior designer Keely Smith from JD Elite Interiors.

For many of us, the kitchen is the heart of the home, and if space allows, creating areas to dine, whether that's with a formal dining table positioned by a large window, or more relaxed kitchen seating ideas around an island or breakfast bar, can help to make this highly functional area of the home feel more relaxed and welcoming.

2. Living rooms

Architect and designer, Havard Cooper says, 'A living room can be much more than just a space for sofas and TVs. A chic little dining setup in the corner or a statement table set center stage transforms it into a dual-purpose area that's as stylish as it is practical.'

Keely Smith also adds, 'Living rooms create relaxed, family-style spaces to eat together while still being part of the main gathering area. For a more informal eating area without a table, large sectional sofas or customized built-ins allow comfortable seating for meals in front of the TV or by a cozy fireplace.'

Incorporating a dining space in your living room is ideal if you're looking to zone a larger, open-plan space, and is great for creating one big entertaining area in the home where people can relax and be seated in various set-ups.

In this open-plan living space, designed by Nicola O'Mara, the living room seating faces away from the dining space, arranged around the TV and modern fireplace, helping to zone and create a sense of separation between the two areas.

3. Sunrooms

Sunroom ideas and alternative dining room ideas will always go hand in hand. Placing a dining table in a sunroom can create a wonderful, indoor-outdoor feel throughout the year (just like outdoor dining ideas), and is a great way to make use of this inviting, light-filled space.

These glazed extensions can create a relaxed, transitional space between the home and garden, and allow for you to appreciate and be surrounded by the beauty of nature when you dine – what's not to love?

4. Bay windows and nooks

Small dining room ideas can be created in all manner of nooks and alcoves – it's all about thinking outside of the box and making the most of the unique architectural details in your space.

'Small areas are fun to style because they allow you to create extra space. It’s those little in-between spots that can – if you’re clever – work harder and become places you want to stay in,' says interior designer, Kit Kemp. In her above design, Kit has transformed this small alcove to create a beautiful dining room alternative, we love the cozy banquette seating and how the design creates a 'room within a room' effect.

Isabey Interiors Interior stylist, Tori Birch, also says, 'The wasted space under a window or in a bay window is a great place to create a dining nook. Adding in a banquette can be such a great way to use every square inch of that nook, potentially doubling the amount of people you can seat. In fact, you’ll probably find that it quickly becomes one of the most loved spaces in the house.'

5. Home libraries

'For this project, we transformed the space into a beautiful home library and dining room combined. A dining table is surrounded by custom floor to ceiling bookcases, and a deep window seat provides the perfect reading nook. Being surrounded by books is a wonderful thing - it creates a cozy library feeling and can be a great conversation starter when you have guests round to dine,' says interior designer, Colleen Simmonds.

6. Games rooms

A games room will always be a multifunctional space that has a variety of uses, from housing entertainment centers, to acting as an inspiring music room, these versatile spaces can provide the perfect backdrop for dining, and can create a playful, unique space to host friends and family.

FAQs

For more alternative dining room inspiration, we explore, where to put a dining table if you don’t have a dining room in our dedicated feature.

When you are pulling up a small stool to seat an unexpected neighbor for canapés, it may seem like your dining room is at full capacity in every way. Though we do not typically view this space as a go-to for storage, when not all homes are graced with ample and consistent square footage, it is only natural that we look for alternative solutions.

Dining room storage is inventive at the best of times, so you may not have dared consider how you add more objects, let alone store them, in this space. When our homes have to keep up with modern day living, impromptu games nights around the table, and beyond embellished Thanksgiving parties, what is a small space host to do? 

We called upon some interior design experts to see how they recommend making a small dining room space work harder in function, and aesthetic.

How to add storage to a small dining room

Being smart with storage will make for seamless suppers and a more beautiful dining room ambiance altogether. It is more about seeing past the space you do not have, and finding fruitful opportunity in what your dining room does have to offer.

1. Choose storage solutions that will not overwhelm

'Adding additional storage in a small dining room can be challenging, but is completely doable,' says Luis Carmona of VERDE Interior Design.

Much like you can mix storage and display in a living room, select the right furniture and you will make even the smallest dining room work double duty.

'Having an appropriately sized credenza or sideboard in the dining space will not only add functionality to the space, providing a surface area for serving or decor, but also additional storage.' Think a sideboard that is just as ripe for decorating with dried flowers, as it is primed to keep beautiful glassware. Or make use of a living room mantel if an open plan diner is more fitting with your space.

The key is to keep your display balanced and in proportion with the rest of your dining room layout and design. Consider how you will work storage around your dining room table, be it rectangular or oval, in a way that will enhance the space and not make it feel too crowded.

2. Make the most of a vertical setting

When square footage is not on your side, using wall space is your next port of call, and thoughtfully installed shelving or built-in cabinets can stylishly cocoon guests when dining.

'A cabinet sitting against a wall or in a nook will add additional storage, with shelving and drawers,' says Carmona. 'But in a vertical setting, if horizontal floor space is not as readily available, use the vertical space to your advantage.'

Done artistically, it will add decorative purpose. Interior designer Soledad Alzaga. recommends making use of vertical space with tall and narrow storage units: 'This can help store items without taking up much floor space. It is best if it has doors or drawers like sideboards or even a dresser, and add extra storage and display surfaces with floating shelves.'

Whether you keep a minimal space or take a more maximalist approach to decor, incorporating living room shelving ideas in the dining room will allow you to keep the more beautiful items of your tableware collection in view, and is sure to spark conversation.

'Use them to display decorative items, store dishes, pitchers and serving platters or bowls,' says Alzaga. The takeaway is to keep it curated, whether it is champagne flutes or a small portion of your best plates on show.

3. Disguise storage within seating

In the spirit of putting every inch to good use, looking beyond classic dining room chairs to banquette seating and other alternatives will add a modern touch to your space, complete with discreet storage. 

'Getting creative with seating can also gain you some additional storage,' shares Carmona. 'Having a bench or banquette with built-in storage as part of the dining table will serve as seating with the added bonus of storage. This is perfect for storing runners, placemats and other table decor that may not be needed on a daily basis.'

4. Go bespoke where needed

It could be that you are blessed with both a small and slightly awkwardly shaped dining room, with alcoves plenty. Bespoke storage solutions are often the best kind, and this is a fine way to create more function in a smaller dining room space too.

As well as selecting multifunctional furniture, like dining tables with built-in drawers or shelves, Neil Marcus, the in-house interiors expert, COO, and co-founder of HomeThreads recommends thinking outside the box to help lost areas regain purpose.

'Maximize vertical space with floor-to-ceiling units, consider customized solutions for underutilized areas, and add style with decorative baskets or boxes,' recommends Marcus.

5. Banish items without purpose

If you are still fighting for a more serene finish in a small dining room, it could be that there are some uninvited guests that must be politely shown to the door. Especially in a smaller home, it is easy for items from other rooms to creep into busy family spaces. Try to be conscious of this when adding storage to a small dining room to ensure that you get the most out of the space you do have.

'Avoid storing things that you rarely use or don't have a purpose in the dining room,' advises Alzaga. Though it is not unheard of to keep cocktail shakers, or perhaps a discreet pod coffee machine, stylishly tucked away on a hutch or your best bar cart, some items are too large and fussy to keep in this convivial space: 

'This could include kitchen gadgets, appliances, or decorative items that don't add to a good dining experience. Avoid large or bulky furniture that can dominate the room and make it feel smaller.'

To keep everything orderly, impose a trinket rule, or three, and pay close attention to the proportions of surrounding furniture. 'Don't over decorate, or have too many knick-knacks or clutter,' adds Alzaga.

FAQ

Take a curated approach to small dining room storage and you will find more opportunity to enhance the space with dining room rugs, wall art, and perhaps even more elaborate Christmas table centerpieces, come the holidays. Consider what guests will notice and how your family interacts with the space on a daily basis to make the most out of even the coziest of dining rooms.

Different table shapes offer distinct benefits, so weighing up between round vs rectangular dining room tables can feel as if it’s not a straightforward task. 

It’s an important factor when choosing a dining table, though, and should be added to the list of criteria including the number of people the table has to seat, and its style in order to fulfill dining room ideas successfully.

We asked interiors experts to share the strengths of both round and rectangular dining tables and which spaces and needs they best suit to make choosing an easier task, and this is their verdict.

Round vs rectangular dining room tables

The essential point about round and rectangular dining room tables is that either can be stylish as well as functional. However, it’s also the case that one or the other can have distinct advantages depending on the space in which it will be situated – which might, for example, be a small dining room, a modern dining room, or a kitchen-diner. How many people you want to seat also matters. This is all the know-how you need.

Advantages of round tables

A round table has plenty of benefits, including the atmosphere it can promote. ‘If you want to embrace a spirit of togetherness and openness, then round tables are your go-to,’ says interior designer Erica Dike of Erica Ooh Designs. 

‘You can use them for any occasion but they’re ideal for social gatherings and family dinners. They work to create a cozy vibe and make it easy for everyone to see and interact with each other.’

Interior designer Artem Kropovinsky agrees that a round table makes for an intimate atmosphere. ‘Ideal for smaller gatherings, a round table ensures everyone can engage in a single conversation,’ he says.

Part of the reason for the relaxed atmosphere is that round tables don’t promote a hierarchy. ‘Their design, void of a defined “head”, offers a sense of equality among diners, making them perfect for informal settings,’ explains Shawn Zar, furniture expert at Superior Seating.

A round table is also versatile. ‘Round tables work great in small dining rooms but you can use them in any size room, just pay attention to scale,’ says Erica. ‘You want to make sure the table is proportionate to the room to avoid leaving too much empty space.’

But not enough space could also cause an issue and it’s vital to make sure those sitting down to eat will have room to move into and out of position. ‘Diners should be able to slide chairs back without hindrance,’ says Artem.

How much space will each diner need? ‘When choosing a round table you want to make sure you have at least 24 to 30 inches of space per person so people can sit close but comfortably,’ says Erica. ‘I always suggest chairs without arms to keep things balanced and make the best use of the space available.’

A round table can also suit what might otherwise prove to be an awkward-to-furnish room. ‘Their lack of corners provides a spatial efficiency that fits snugly into smaller or uniquely shaped rooms,’ says Shawn.

It might also help prevent harm. ‘Round tables come without sharp edges, ensuring a safer environment, particularly in settings with children or where accidents might happen,’ Shawn explains.

A round table can have benefits for the overall design of the room in which it is located. ‘Their curve brings softer aesthetics, balancing interiors with predominantly straight lines,’ says Artem.

Advantages of rectangular tables

A rectangular table also comes with plenty of upsides, and one of these is that it might be the perfect fit for the space. ‘A match made for elongated rooms; their linear form follows the room’s geometry, maximizing seating,’ says Artem Kropovinsky. For a comfortable fit? ‘Make sure you have at least 36 inches of space around the table so people can easily move around,’ says Erica Dike. 

For bigger groups of visitors, or large families, it could also be a top choice. ‘Rectangular tables cater seamlessly to larger gatherings,’ Artem explains. ‘Multiple conversations can flow at different ends.’ 

Additionally, a rectangular table is great for more formal entertaining. ‘Rectangular tables offer a clear structure that’s beneficial for formal events or gatherings where a hierarchy or focal point is desired,’ says Shawn Zar. ‘Additionally, their shape allows for a clear division of space, useful in buffet settings or activities requiring structured seating.’

Go for a rectangular table and there are options for the seating that goes with it. ‘Pair with benches on one side for a casual appeal or use chairs for formal settings,’ says Artem. 

‘Rectangular tables are fun because you can mix and match your seating options,’ agrees Erica. ‘For residential spaces, you can go with captain chairs at the head of the table and mix dining chairs with a long bench.’

If the room has to fulfill more than one role, a rectangular table can also prove a sound choice. ‘They’re ideal for homes where dining doubles as a workspace,’ says Artem. ‘The extended surface caters to diverse needs.’

Round vs rectangular tables: which is better?

The verdict on round vs rectangular tables is that old favorite: it depends. ‘The deciding factors between a round or rectangular dining table depend on your specific needs, available space, and personal style preferences,’ says Vivianne Chow, interior decorator and owner at Viv and Tim Home. ‘If space is limited and you want a more intimate, casual atmosphere, a round table might be the better option.’

Of course, you may want both a round and a rectangular table. ‘In my own home, we eat at a casual round dining table in our breakfast nook for our daily meals but when hosting guests, we use our long rectangular dining table in our formal dining room,’ says Viviannne. ‘If you have a larger space to fill, need to accommodate more people, or prefer a formal setting, a rectangular table is likely the way to go.’

FAQs

Whether you’ve decided on a round or rectangular table, don’t forget the room’s other dimensions to get the best design for your room. ‘Many make the mistake of not considering the height of the table and chairs,’ says Janet Linly, interior design expert and CEO of Marge Carson. ‘It’s especially important with low ceilings or hanging light fixtures,’ she explains. 

When it comes to styling a dining space, things can be quite structured. There's a lot to fit in the space, and it is traditionally a rather formal room, so you can feel a bit limited in what you can create with the space. In fact, dining rooms might be one of the trickiest rooms to decorate in a way that reflects personal style and works hard as a practical space. Due to the fact these rooms usually only get used for occasions, they can easily look a bit stuffy and impersonal.

However, we have seen plenty of gorgeous, character-filled dining rooms that do manage to create this balance between personal and practical, and a lot of it comes down to ensuring the space doesn't follow too many of those traditional and now outdated dining room rules. 

We spoke with designers about which of these rules and trends we should just be ignoring when it comes to designing a dining room. 

5 outdated dining room trends to avoid

Similar to kitchen trends, dining room trends are slightly slower moving than the rest of the rooms. There is less flexibility with these spaces, and perhaps less opportunity to be as experimental with the decor as say in a living room or a bedroom. 

That does mean a lot of 'go to' approaches for dining room decor are outdated, and they are facing a bit of a bad press right now as to whether or not they are useful rooms to have in a modern home. We say yes – if you design them to suit your lifestyle and steer clear of the outdated dining room trends that are making these spaces less useable. 

1. Going too formal

A lot of the backlash we have seen against dining rooms recently is not so much that they are redundant, but they are redundant in their traditional, very formal form.

'I try not to let trends dictate my design philosophy too much one way or the other, but I think the idea that your dining room be overtly formal is definitely on its way out,' explains designer Kathy Kuo. 'Your dining area, whether that's a standalone room, a nook, or just a designated part of your kitchen, should feel warm and welcoming and like it's the perfect place for gathering in a lighthearted way. Letting go of formality and stuffiness is the first step in transforming your dining room into a place to make memories!'

Designer Cherie Lee agrees that antiquated approaches to a dining room are what will instantly date them. 'Clients are largely looking to create more informal dining spaces that are less isolated and more connected to the rest of the home. Even where space is plentiful clients like to integrate the dining experience into the wider context of the home so that the space can be enjoyed, even when it's not in use rather than have it shut away and used only on high days and holidays.'

'When a more conventional set up is required that looks to separate the dining space, we often incorporate a significant glazed element to the dining room, double doors or even a fixed panel of glass so that the dining room remains separate and zoned off, yet light can still travel through the area, and sidelines allow the space to give the home more spacious proportions.'

2. Matching your dining room furniture

'One trend that's distinctly on the wane is the insistence that all dining room pieces must perfectly match,' says designer Dara Huang. 'We're moving away from the uniformity of identical chairs and tables towards embracing diversity and contrast. Today, it's about creating an eclectic, yet harmonious dining experience. Mixing and matching chairs, experimenting with various textures, and incorporating contrasting accent pieces have become the new norm.'

The debate of whether your dining room furniture should match is a hot one right now, and it's again linked to that shift away from a formal dining room. Mixing furniture gives more scope to bring in variety and character and takes away that very structured look a dining room can often have.

'Over the past few years, the dining room decor has seen significant shifts in trends. The traditional uniform aesthetic, characterized by matching furniture suites and diminutive chandeliers, has been replaced with a more eclectic approach. Today, the trend is towards mixing and matching furniture styles, enhancing the uniqueness and vibrancy of the dining space,' adds Kati Curtis.

'The once-popular white walls and stuffy chair rails are giving way to bold colors and creative dining room wallpapers and murals. Patterned wallpapers have gained significant traction, adding texture and depth to walls and reflecting the personal style of the homeowner. These changes suggest a movement towards personalization, transforming dining rooms from mere eating spaces to intimate sanctuaries that bear the homeowner's unique taste and creativity.'

3. Oversized dining tables

'A dining room trend that I think really dates a space is massive, imposing dining tables. Instead, choose more flexible and intimate seating arrangements,' suggests Artem Kropovinsky.

Picture a traditional dining room and you do picture a huge (usually glistening mahogany) dining table just dominating the center of the room. It makes it almost impossible to have any space or flexibility to do anything else with the space. It also makes it far less likely for you to use it on a more regular basis. Ditch the idea that you need a table that seats 20 and opt for something realistic for your family. You can always choose an extendable design if you do need something larger on the occasion.

Although we have seen some instances of it working really well, a dark mahogany dining room can instantly make the space look stuffy and dated. For this kind of furniture, you really need the room and the light.

4. Choosing totally open plan

For all the talk of how outdated separate, formal dining rooms can be, this is a really interesting point. In general, we have seen a dip in open plan layouts, which were once the go-to for any modern home or renovation – the fewer walls the better seemed to be the mantra. But there is this shift in interior design trends away from this everything all in one room approach, to more traditional floorplans.

'The biggest outdated trend I’m seeing in dining rooms right now is the open plan. Once a symbol of modern living, the appeal of a spacious area that combines the kitchen, dining, and living space into one has diminished over time,' explains Kati Curtis. 'Since Covid when everyone was working, living and eating at home, people have begun to value privacy and separation, leading to a decline in the popularity of open-concept designs.'

'This shift from open-concept designs back to more compartmentalized living mirrors the layout of classic prewar apartments. These older structures, built before World War II, often feature separate, distinct rooms for cooking, dining, and living. They were designed this way to accommodate the domestic needs of the time, offering privacy and distinct spaces for different activities. As modern homeowners rediscover the benefits of this traditional layout, it's causing a resurgence in the popularity of these prewar design concepts, which I love.'

5. An overuse of hutches

Hutches and buffets are synonymous with more formal dining rooms, but despite their popularity, they are a trend that can really date the space. They can work in a more farmhouse-style dining room if you want that space to display crockery, but really in a modern home they can be a bit redundant and end up just adding bulk and clutter. 

Instead, stick to a sleeker sideboard if you want a surface to add some decor and display glassware then add a large print above to ground the furniture for a more fuss-free look. Or instead of crockery, bring books into the dining room to make it feel more relaxed and living room-like. And if you do like the look of crockery on display, wall mounting plates are making a surprising comeback and can totally work in the right space.

Dining rooms are undoubtedly tricky rooms to design and decorate but they can be a joy since they are rooms mostly used on occasion, you can be more experimental and have more fun with colors and patterns. Just don't get dragged down by those traditional dining room approaches to what they should look like, what pieces of furniture they must include, and how they should or shouldn't be used. 

If we treat them like these separate, saved-for-events spaces, they will become more and more redundant, which seems like such a waste when a dining room can be such a relaxed and sociable space. 

Even if you have a healthy budget in mind when researching fresh dining room ideas, it never hurts to punch higher and make your hard-earned cash go further. Working out how to make a dining room look classy and more expensive than reality could free up funds to invest in fresh art or designer furniture.   

One of the smartest ways to achieve an exclusive look is to focus attention on one key investment piece, and then be relatively frugal elsewhere. It’s a basic smoke and mirrors approach, but one that can prove very effective. 

Interior designer Dara Huang suggests elevating your dining room with a striking chandelier. ‘Opt for lighting designs that add a touch of opulence and exude sophistication,’ she adds. ‘Also incorporate luxurious materials like marble, velvet, or silk for table settings and drapery; such textures never fail to create a sumptuous atmosphere.’

How to make a dining room look classy

What makes any home look expensive and classy is often more about subtle, sophisticated choices than splashing the cash, and the dining room is no exception. Aim for a considered, elegant approach and swerve anything too ostentatious. There’s a very fine line between top-end and tacky!  

1. Go for glossy finishes

It is no secret that incorporating reflective surfaces will help bounce light around a room and make a small dining room feel bigger while going for matt, light-obliterating finishes is a common small dining room mistake. But did you know high-gloss surfaces are also fabulous for lending an air of exclusivity?

Interior designer Roger Higgins is a convert. ‘I love high-gloss walls in a dining room. Candlelight and crystal chandeliers reflect beautifully against glossy walls and immediately make the space feel sophisticated,’ he enthuses. ‘Shiny high-impact focal points – like a gilded fixture, gold sunburst mirror, or a colorful piece of art – can elevate a dining room as well.’

Although painting walls in gloss rather than emulsion can be a little more time-consuming (gloss paint takes much longer to cure between coats), you’ll benefit from a much tougher surface that will be easier to clean. 

2. Swap walls for glass dividers

Admittedly it’s not the quickest win but swapping out solid walls for glass can seriously upgrade a so-so dining space to an executive experience. This style of smart room divider idea is a clever way to enjoy an intimate dining area without losing the benefits of open-plan living.

In this up-market London home, Laila Patel, founder of Interiors by Laila used smoked glass panels from Poliform, set in striking matt black frames. ‘The dining room was previously a separate room with walls and double doors. The motivation for removing these was to improve the flow from the dining room into the hallways,’ she explain. ‘At the same time, it was important to retain the sense of separation whilst allowing light into the previously dark hallway. The smoked glass lends a designer touch.’

You don’t need to go for fully-glazed glass partition walls to reap similar rewards; a half-wall with internal windows can also work well. Be sure to go for high-quality finishes and framework – Crittall is timelessly elegant, for example – to achieve a classy look.

3. Source designer wallcoverings

For dining room wallpaper ideas that scream ‘classy’, seek out specialist wallcoverings imbued with a little extra va va voom. Papers with textural appeal, such as woven, flock, and seagrasses will recreate the hushed elegance of the dining room in a five-star hotel; Hill House Interiors are fully onboard. 

‘Luxury wallpapers possess the power to transform a space. They lay the foundation for our art of layering and impart a tactile, dimensional quality to the walls,’ says co-founder Helen Bygraves. ‘Here, we used a metal embossed vinyl wallpaper by Elitis, which exudes a captivating metallic luster, capturing and enhancing the light from the chandelier. What makes this wallpaper truly special is its multi-tonal aesthetic, seamlessly harmonizing with the textures and tones found throughout the entire design scheme.’

4. Max out on mirrors

For a hearty sprinkle of glitz and glamour, layer up the mirrors. Aline Asmar d’Amman, Architect and founder of Culture in Architecture, shows us how it’s done in her own Parisian dining room. 

‘I like to exaggerate the views in the room with mirrors on the walls, and framed decorative mirrors layered on top. The infinite depth of repetitions complements the space with a theatrical dimension, magnifying textures while adding a sense of wonderment to the eye,’ she explains. ‘In the context of dining and social gatherings, mirrors invite sexiness and glamor to the table, inducing a sense of celebration with shine and irreverence.’ 

Consider antiqued mirrored glass to dial down the clarity of reflections, especially if you don’t like to admire yourself during dinner. And do make sure your mirrors are kept well-buffed – there’s nothing expensive-looking about a dining room smudged in grubby fingerprints.

5. Envelop in color

Another simple but extremely effective way to make your dining room look more expensive using paint is to go for a total color drench on walls, ceiling, and woodwork. Known in the trade as a Full Drip, this high-impact approach can make a distinctly average dining room appear more upscale.  

‘The use of bold, impactful colors not just on walls but also on ceilings and trim can elevate your interior design and create a stunning visual impact,’ agrees interior designer Victoria-Maria Geyer. To dial up the drama go for dark, colors, like this regal blue, which will promote a cosseting yet glamorous atmosphere that’s perfect for intimate dinners.

6. Embrace power paneling

Power paneling is like regular paneling but just a little bit extra! We’re talking about wall panel décor ideas that turn your dining room walls into works of art. This could be full-on floor-to-ceiling Tudor-style wood paneling with ‘to the manor born’ airs and graces, or more contemporary ‘relief’ paneling with art installation vibes.  

In this sophisticated dining room by Tollgard Studio, applying exquisite hand-painted wallpaper inside the existing architectural paneling elevates it to National Gallery-grade grandeur. ‘The additional layers that make a dining room sing are flowers, decorative accessories, and heavy curtains to help with sound as well as vision,’ adds interior designer, Monique Tollgard, who notes how the thick-pile rug here also helps soften sound for a more rarefied atmosphere. 

7. Add luxe moments

Luxurious materials, fitting and accessories have the power to transform bland spaces, adding a dose of lavishness and elegance, so says interior designer, Cat Dal. 

‘For this project, our brief was to transform a gray, cold, and modern kitchen/diner into a bold, sophisticated charming environment,’ she recalls. ‘We used luxe materials such as the marble dining table, custom brass light pendant fittings and an organic print on the wallpaper, then paired with fun and stylish chairs to add color and personality to the space.’

If you’re a slave to budget, the good news is a little can go a long way. Just like a pearl necklace can make a simple black dress look like haute couture, it only takes one or two moments of luxury to lift the fortunes of your entire dining room. Think marble fireplace, antique light fitting, or designer dining chairs. 

When hosting a dinner party – especially during the holidays, it can be tempting to invite everyone first and worry about seating later. 

This leads to too many squashed guests fighting for space when trying to eat. But how do you work out the capacity of your best dining table? 

Here, interior designers and furniture experts have shared their tips for working out how many people can sit around your dining table.

How to work out the capacity of your dining table  

Of course, working out how many people can sit around your dining table is much easier if you have a standard square or rectangular dining table – especially if you accurately judge how big a dining table should be compared to the room. All you have to do is put chairs around the table until no more fit comfortably beneath.

If you have a round dining table, however, things can get a little trickier. Luckily (or unluckily depending on how you view math) there is a simple formula to help you work it out, says Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight:

‘When determining seating capacity for any table, always start with the idea of personal space. At a dining table, ensure each person has about 24 to 28 inches of space. This ensures not just physical comfort, but ease in conversation flow,’ he explains. 

‘For round tables, a good starting point is its diameter. Subtract 12 inches (to account for the table's centerpiece and breathing room) and then divide by the aforementioned 24-28 inches. For instance, a 60-inch round table can comfortably seat five to six people, giving each person ample space.’ 

It is not just the size of your table that you have to consider, but the type of seating you are using, your dinnerware sets, glassware sets, and your dining table decor too, Artem continues. 

‘Overcrowding isn’t just about the number of people. Think about table settings and centerpieces. Opt for taller, slender centerpieces over wide ones. This maximizes your table surface area,’ he suggests.

If you have worked out your table capacity and don't have enough space, it is important to remember the rules about adding more people, Virginia Frischkorn, hosting expert and founder of Partytrick and Bluebird Productions adds.

Rather than adding extra seats to a small dining room, Virginia suggests setting up a separate serving area at the side of the table to allow guests to refill their drinks and plates at will in a more casual setting to keep table space free for people to sit and eat.

Alternatively, you could swap out the seating itself for options that allow more people to sit more comfortably together, such as ‘benches mixed and matched with traditional dining chairs,’ she adds. 

‘One key piece of advice to remember is just because you can add more seating to a round table does not mean you have to,’ she continues. ‘The comfort of your guests is what is important so try to keep a round table to a maximum of eight guests to avoid them butting elbows.

FAQs

Sometimes, the size of our table defeats us and our plans and there is a point where you simply can’t squeeze more people in comfortably no matter how hard you try. In these instances, Virginia Frischkorn, hosting expert, reminds us to keep in mind that, at times, ‘it's more practical to have two separate tables rather than attempting to squeeze all the guests around a single large table.’

While this does divide up the conversation a little, it is more comfortable than being sat on top of one another. You can always move the party on to another room after dining to socialize together.

Tableware is one of those categories that just seems to keep growing making it hard to find good storage for – especially if you don't have a dining room to add extra storage to your home. 

Luckily, thanks to the expertise of professional organizers, if you are left without dining room storage, there is no need to despair.

Here, they share four next-best spots to stow away excess tableware, from our candlesticks to tablecloths.

Where to store tableware when you don’t have a dining room

Of course, when organizing glassware and tableware, it is essential to declutter first, reminds Amélie Saint-Jacques, professional organizer and founder of Amelie Organizes:

‘It is good to remember that some things are worth keeping even if they are only used once a year (say, kosher-for-Passover dishes, or a roasting pan and gravy boat), but be honest with yourself about whether you actually use those items,’ she says. ‘Do you have a full set of dishes for 20 people even though you never have more than 12 people over? Could you give the gravy boat to the person who actually hosts for the holidays, if you're not going to make gravy?

‘Paring your belongings down to only those you use and love makes it that much easier to store them adequately. And don't forget, you can use the good china even if it's not a special occasion.’

1. Use plastic storage bins with good padding

The obvious go-to would be to organize plates in a kitchen, but if you have more than one set of dinnerware that you rotate through, then it can be a good idea to store excess pieces in plastic bins, safely padded, elsewhere in the house, says Leslie Kilgour, professional organizer and founder of Get It Straight.

‘I like to store excess tableware in plastic bins, with lots of tissue paper and bubble wrap on anything breakable,’ she says. ‘These bins can be stored in a closet or even under the bed. Make sure to label the boxes with both what is in the box, and also the number of items (cups (six), for example). 

‘If you are someone who likes to entertain a lot, keep the boxes where they are accessible. If you entertain twice a year, you can even put these boxes in a storage unit or basement! Make sure to wash everything before you use it.’

2. Look up to kitchen cabinet storage

‘If you are looking for storage for dining accessories such as candlesticks, spare dinnerware, and serving pieces I always suggest looking up. Is there space on top of the kitchen cabinets?’ begins Diane Quintana, professional organizer and owner of DNQ Solutions.

‘Candlesticks, spare dinnerware, and serving pieces can also be used as decorative items. Strategically placing them on top of the kitchen cupboards is a great use of that empty space. 

‘Alternatively, the top shelf of a kitchen cupboard is also a good option. These are things you may not need to access all the time so putting them out of reach is a good way to organize kitchen cabinets and make the most of the available space.’ 

3. Use an empty dresser drawer

Organizing a dresser is usually reserved for clothing, but if you have a drawer storage unit somewhere near your dining space – in the kitchen or entryway for instance, it can be a quick and accessible option for those smaller pieces, such as candlesticks, napkins, and tablecloths, says Leslie Kilgour, professional organizer

‘I  take a drawer from any dresser, line it with cloth napkins, and store the extra serving supplies in there. I also recommend getting plastic serving dishes if you can, that way it minimizes breakage by accident when stored.’

4. Make a statement with tableware storage

We usually think of hanging plates on a wall as reserved for fine china we never eat off of, but if you have some of the best dinnerware sets or best glassware, why not hang them on display? 

‘If there is wall space in the kitchen, consider installing some floating shelves to hold serving pieces and candlesticks,’ agrees Diane Quintana, professional organizer. ‘Once again, storing them out in the open serves two purposes: storage and wall art.’

FAQs

If you are really tight on storage due to a lack of dining room space, then it may be worth paring back your collections altogether and renting dinnerware for special occasions, suggests Raychel Klein, professional organizer and CEO at RayBayBay Home Organization.

‘Hosting a dinner or home event can require you to purchase large quantities of items you may only use once. Consider renting pieces for entertainment. You’ll be able to get what you need and not need to worry about the storage.’

Putting a rug underneath a dining table is a popular choice, but you might be wondering if interiors experts think it’s a good idea, and if there are occasions on which it’s not such a smart move.

Whether as part of dining room ideas for a room dedicated to gathering family and friends to share a meal, or when the table is part of an open-plan space, a rug below the table can appear to be an attractive option, adding color, texture, and pattern, depending on the design selected.

But what do interior designers think and are there rules you can follow about putting a rug under a dining table? We asked them to share their opinions.

Putting a rug under a dining table: the pro verdict

The verdict from interiors experts on whether you should put a rug under a dining table is, yes, you could, and that it’s a great strategy. Dining room rug ideas have plenty of benefits to offer. However, it’s not essential to put a rug under a dining table. 

If you do prefer to? There are details you need to be aware of in planning your interior so it delivers both in terms of style and functionality. 

Size is crucial

Choose to put a rug under a dining table and it’s imperative that it is large enough.

‘With the table centered on the rug and chairs pushed beneath, leave at least 18 to 24 inches from the back of the chair leg to the edge of the rug,’ says interior designer at FLOOR360 Kelly Kuehn.

Interior designer Artem Kropovinsky recommends the top of this range. ‘Ensure your chosen rug extends at least 24 inches beyond the chairs on all sides,’ he says. ‘This prevents the chairs from snagging the rug when moved.’

Material and texture count

Put a rug under a dining table and it will have to stand up to foot traffic and the frequent movement of the dining chairs as they’re pulled out and when they’re moved underneath the table. The takeaway? When choosing a rug what it’s made from and its texture are very importable so it lasts and retains its good looks.

‘Opt for low-pile or flat-weave designs as they are simpler to maintain,‘ suggests Artem Kropovinsky. ‘Prioritize long-lasting, natural fibers.’

Kelly Kuehn agrees that durable natural rugs are best. ‘I would recommend a wool or a wool blend for a dining room area rug,’ she says. ‘Wool resists color fading and losing its shape over years of chairs and table positioning and re-positioning. Spills are easier to clean on wool and it has the added feature of being fire retardant in case a candle falls off the table.’

Invest in a design that will last. ‘The highest quality rug will be a woven wool rug with a high density of knots per inch when you look at the back of the piece,’ says Kelly. ‘Fewer knots per square inch will not hold up to traffic and show wear easier.’

Think noise reduction

Some dining spaces can prove noisy, and in addition to its other advantages, a rug under a dining table can help reduce noise levels and is therefore worth investing in. 

‘For homes with open layouts or tall ceilings, rugs can act as a sound buffer, enhancing the dining ambience,’ says Artem Kropovinsky.

Consider children and pets

If you have younger children or companion animals in your home, you might pause before putting a rug under a dining table as it’s liable to additional wear and spills. The experts, though, don’t think this is a reason not to do so, providing you buy with this in mind.

‘For families with kids or pets, it’s wise to select rugs that are either dark-colored or stain-resistant, considering the potential for messes,’ says Artem Kropovinsky.

When not to put a rug under a dining table

There are a number of reasons interior designers say you should put a rug under a dining table, but there are occasions on which it may not be the right move in your interiors, and this includes when bearing in mind other flooring ideas.

‘If your floor already makes a statement or you desire low maintenance under foot in the dining space, you might choose to forgo the rug altogether,’ says Artem Kropovinsky.

FAQs

A rug under a dining table can be part of carefully put together dining room color ideas, and complement dining table decor in making it a worthy centerpiece for the room. Although not an essential, a rug under the table can be part of both modern dining rooms, or traditional dining rooms. Know how to clean an area rug and you can ensure it stays pristine and fresh even in busy family homes.

How do you style a dining table when not in use? After all, dining tables take up the bulk of space in a dining room or kitchen, meaning that when they sit empty they can make the entire room feel a little lackluster. 

Of course, we all dress a dining table for special occasions, so why not style it when it's not in use? 

The trick, designers say, is to do so so that your table remains functional, without it being cluttered. From seasonal dressing to sculptural focal points, here is how interior designers style their tables when they're not in use, with tips to replicate the results at home. 

How to style a dining table when not in use 

The first rule to styling a table you are not using that minute but otherwise use a lot is to make sure the space remains practical – which means not swamping the table with home decor that is hard to move and has no home when you come to lay out serve ware for a dinner party, or an evening meal. 

Besides that, it is about curating a beautiful surface with personal items and seasonal pickings, designers say. 

1. Style according to the season

The best tablescaping usually draws from the current season to inspire beautiful place settings and table centerpieces, so use the same approach to styling a table you aren't using, suggests Andrea May, interior designer at the eponymous design studio.

‘Styling an off-duty dining table is an opportunity to have some fun,’ she begins. ‘I like to use a large tray – mine is an ornate silver serving tray of my grandmother’s, but use whatever speaks to you. This is the base piece and it will live there year round. 

‘You can use this tray to corral seasonal decor and treasured collections. In the fall, I have a collection of vintage majolica pitchers and tuck in some flowers from the garden, branches, or even curated blooms from the grocery store. Around Halloween, I pull out a collection of vintage Rosenthal “paper bag” vases, fill them with greenery or dried flowers, and nestle some miniature pumpkins around them. 

‘Whatever the season, the idea is to keep it simple and fun, as well as easy to disassemble/reassemble if it can’t stay in place when the table is needed back in service – you can even use the tray as your centerpiece when hosting.’

2. Fill the space with seasonal pickings

Sticking with the seasonal theme, Jacquline Goncalves, principal designer and founder of Mokṣa Studio recommends using seasonal pickings such as fruit or flowers to help add life to the space through your dining table decor. 

‘Styling a dining table you're not using with any of the following will add both color and vibrance. Adding flowers or unusual seasonal branches is an easy and elegant way to spruce up a table. Be sure to use a vase that suits the style of room's decor. 

‘Alternatively, a bowl or platter filled with seasonal or vivid fruit like oranges or apples or pears – really any fruit that can withstand room temperature, is both beautiful and functional for reaching for a snack.’

3. Style out your serve ware

If you have beautiful dinnerware sets, why not make them into decor, Kate Rumson, stylist and brand ambassador at Villeroy & Boch proposes. 

‘When you’re not using your favorite serving pieces, you can store them in plain sight as décor. For example, my favorite centerpiece is Villeroy & Boch’s La Boule. When not in use it’s a spherical artful centerpiece as you’ve never seen, and when in use, it’s a seven-piece serving set – I love the versatility.’

4. Display freshly baked goods

If your dining table is in a thoroughfare, such as an open plan kitchen-diner or living room, then it can be a great place to lay out any freshly baked goods you have made to snack on as you pass or entice guests, says Jenny Kozena, interior designer and co-founder of IntroOnly:

‘if you are always making things, a glass lid serving tray or cake stand filled with your freshly made or purchased goods are great options to put on an unused table and invite people to use the space.’

Our favorite pieces are below.

5. Create interest with coffee table books

Although typically a coffee table styling idea, as the name suggests, coffee table books find the perfect home on your dining table too, Elizabeth Grace, interior designer and founder of Dream Home Making says. 

‘Invite coffee table books to take center stage on your dining table, creating an enticing tableau of knowledge and artistry. Stack a selection of books with captivating covers, celebrating subjects that inspire you – be it art, travel, or culinary delights. This arrangement doesn't just serve as a visual delight but also invites your guests to explore the treasures of your interests.’ 

We suggest picking up some of the best interior design books, naturally.  

6. Spark interest with sculptural pieces

If you are looking to make more of a statement, then consider using strong sculptural pieces in your dining table styling, Caroline Kopp, interior designer at the eponymous design studio advocates.

‘When a dining table is not in use, I like to use a grouping of sculptural objects to give it life. So this could mean a few colored glass low vases or bowls, a pair of candlesticks, and an interesting pitcher or urn in complementing colors and materials. 

‘Then when you do set the table, you can add some flowers and candles and/or remove items as necessary to make space

‘For a modern or minimalist look on your dining table, a long low trough or metal box filled with succulents or moss plants looks great. Another nice treatment for an unused dining table is a very tall glass vase filled with branches or tall, dramatic greenery. This gives your table nice grandeur and interest.’

FAQs

When left with a dining table you are not currently using, adding in decor, especially seasonal decor, is a great way to make a dining room feel cozy and more intimate. Adding in personal touches such as books, scented candles for when you are not eating, and personal mementos can invite friends and family in, and make your dining space a great place to gather, even when you're not enjoying a meal.  

It is hard to deny that a dining table is an awkward piece to fit into a home if you don't have a designated space. That being said, there are some excellent alternatives to where to put a dining table if you don't have a dining room that designers say are just as good. 

Here, interior designers have shared their tips for where to put a dining table if you don't have a dining room, to help host no matter the size of your home.

Where to put a dining table if you don’t have a dining room 

Everyone knows the best conversations happen over a meal, whether it is with family, a partner, or friends, so having somewhere to sit and eat is an important element to consider when choosing your dining room ideas – even if you think you don't have the space.

1. Make a multifunctional space

Whether you have an open-plan living room or not, it can be handy to make one room multifunctional, especially if you do not use a formal dining table very frequently.  

Kim Taylor shares that, in a recent project by Two Hands Interiors, they combined a formal lounge space with a dining room thanks to a drop leaf table that could be conveniently concealed as a sideboard when not in use. 

‘This room is used primarily as a lounge and then a few times a year, the drop leaf tables that usually live along the walls are moved to the center and set up as a dining table,’ she says. ‘We used an origami drop leaf rectangular dining table, like this one from Wayfair.

There are some beautiful folding chair options too, if you don't have any dining-style chairs around the house that you can corral together, they add, such as the Raylan Teak Folding Chair from Pottery Barn that, although designed for outdoor use, looks beautiful indoors too.  

2. Make use of outdoor space in summer

Of course, if you don't have space inside, outdoor dining is the best bet, says Jenny Kozena, interior designer and co-founder of IntroOnly

‘Make use of any outdoor spaces by adding a dining table whether it's a balcony or a garden you can create your own beautiful outdoor dining room. You can also convert your garage to an indoor-outdoor dining area if you need more space and want to host more people,’ she adds.

Although this alternative works best in summer, there are some smart yet stylish ways of staying warm when dining outside for spring and fall too.  

3. Keep it traditional with kitchen dining

Eat-in kitchens are nothing new, but they are a staple for a reason, says Simran Kaur, founder and editor of the home blog, Room You Love: 

‘It's quite traditional advice but if you have enough space in the kitchen pull the dining table into there,’ she says. ‘It’s rather practical to eat the food where it's cooked, and is great for hosting as you can converse with guests as you prepare.’ 

4. Use the area behind a sofa

If you avoid the common sofa arranging mistake of pressing your furniture up against the walls, then you can fit a console-type dining table being a sofa for intimate meals, Jenny Kozena, interior designer, continues. You can fit stools beneath for concealed seating, and style the table as a console to blend it seamlessly into the scheme when not in use.  

5. Use your kitchen island

If your kitchen is big enough for an island to help with prep work, consider designing a kitchen island with seating for it to double up as a dining space, Meredith Marlow, principal interior designer at the eponymous design studio, recommends. 

‘We drop down one end to table height so that it is usable as a dining table or even workspace,’ she explains. ‘It's amazing how much space you save when you build the dining table into the island. You can even change the table finish from the main island.’ 

FAQs

Although these dining table solutions are a far cry from traditional dining room ideas, they open up different possibilities for hosting, from focusing on more intimate gatherings to switching it up and inviting people over a little more informally for snacks and drinks.  

Joanna Gaines has recently expanded her horizons from full-scale Fixer Upper projects to aptly named 'mini-renis' – refocusing on small design decisions that can transform a space.

Most recently, the HGTV designer showed us what's possible when you experiment with wallpaper – specifically a century-old decorating technique with transformative powers that often goes overlooked: namely, pairing a bold wallpaper with a punchy paint color for trim.

'From an outdated dining room to a lively gathering space with plenty of whimsy,' Joanna shared alongside before and after footage on Instagram. 'With the original built-in as our inspiration, we played up the charm and whimsy in this dining room with floor-to-ceiling wallpaper, fresh paint, and detailed trim.'  

The Magnolia blog explains that the dining room sits right between the living room and breakfast nook, which we featured recently, meaning it was the center of the entire renovation. Joanna and her team wanted the space to reflect the home's 'original charm' – drawing inspiration from the built-in cabinet in the top corner. 'This 1930s cabinet served as a point of reference for design decisions made throughout the entire project,' the team share on Magnolia.

As with all renovations, there were many decisions to consider – from paint to furnishings and accessories. However, we would say that the transition from the glossy blue paint to the whimsical green wallpaper is the most impactful change of all.

Joanna chose Red Barrel Studio's Evergreen Peel & Stick Floral Wallpaper (available via Wayfair below) to serve as the perfect 'garden-esque feel' base. She then painted the trim, baseboards, built-in, and ceiling in Weathered Windmill – a subtle blue paint from Magnolia Home, naturally. This hue is said to pair well with the color story in the statement wallpaper. 

While the wallpaper does much of the talking, Joanna's choice of furniture (and accessories) is worth an honorable mention. The rounded table and classic spindle-back chairs are contemporary with a traditional French twist, complementing the antique-inspired aesthetic set by the Art Nouveau, William Morris-inspired wallpaper. 

In terms of the tablescape, Joanna arranged scalloped plates and placemats before adding an oversized vessel and white faux floral arrangement that matches the wallpaper, naturally. 

We've found the same table mats and candle sticks (and similar sculpted plates) on Magnolia – so we can all recreate this Jo-approved tablescape in our own dining rooms.  

Ever wondered how interior design professionals set a table?

One of the world’s most influential interior designers, Nina Campbell has been creating interiors that exude effortless style and charm for over 50 years.

And today she's exclusively bringing us her summer table decor ideas and tablescaping tips. 

1. Let table linen inspire your color scheme

'I find so much joy in laying a table for my guests – curating an eclectic mix of pieces collected over the years and embracing a range of styles, shapes and aesthetics which I often then unify with an underlying color palette (normally inspired by the table linen that I’m using). 

'In this instance I’ve chosen to bring in complementary, tonal shades of green across the table – placing emerald colored water glasses alongside clear Murano wine glasses to bring a cheerful pop of color which ties in beautifully with the wider scheme and brings a subtle, sophisticated feeling of cohesion. 

'I also have various slipcovers for the dining chairs in different colors and patterns that I’ve coordinated with my crockery so I can seamlessly switch up the look of the table as and when needed.'

2. Build on your collection

'If there are certain colors that appeal to you more than others I would always recommend opting for these as a starting point to build out your own treasured collections of tableware, textiles and glassware. 

'When you’re out shopping, be sure to refer back to the pieces you have at home and how they might work together – it’s helpful to have a library of pieces that you know you can easily throw together. I have a number of different and distinct color stories in my cupboard that I buy into regularly – green and white, pinks and amethysts, brown and tortoiseshell – I’ll make sure I have the ‘staples’ such as napkins, tablecloth, cutlery and crockery for each look. 

'On a practical note, I would suggest using storage that is in your dining room or close to your dining table – it makes setting up for a dinner party so much easier rather than running to and from different rooms! If you have open storage the harmonizing colors will look wonderful together and form a display in their own right.'

3. Include low flower arrangements

'I prefer flowers to be quite low on a dining table so that you can easily see and speak to your guests... I’ve actually found some beautiful glass ice buckets that work really well for holding short bouquets of flowers, so I’ll normally put two of these on the table if I have six guests around a table, or three if more. 

'In between these I’ll then include some mirrored plates that will reflect the magic of the table and for evening meals you could also place candles which bring a warm, ambient glow and never fail to make a dinner party feel special.'

4. Think outside the box

'Changing your table will completely alter the feeling of a room – setting the tone for the evening and elevating the food that you serve. If you entertain a lot and have repeat guests quite regularly, I always think it’s fun to change up the dining table on each occasion as opposed to sticking to one look. 

'Silverware and stemmed wine glasses will always bring a more formal tone to a dinner table but for something more relaxed I tend to use saris as tablecloths which create a real talking point.'

5. Reinvent your favorite finds as centerpieces

'While I love using tablecloths to add visual interest to a dinner table, I do sometimes opt to leave the tabletop uncovered so the wood grain of the table forms part of the curation. For this look I like to use amber glassware, rustic table mats and tortoise shell handle cutlery – leaning into the earthy hues further by adding decorative wood urns and antique salt and pepper pots.

'A key piece of advice when you’re thinking of how to decorate the table is to ‘shop the cupboard’ – you don’t always have to have flowers at the center of the table – look at what you have already around the house and think whether you could make a display of it. 

'It's sometimes a nice way of re-appreciating objects and looking at them in a new light.'

Nina Campbell’s new online course ‘A Definitive Guide to Decorating’ – in which she shares how to decorate your home – is available now. 

We spoke to a select group of interior designers to discover the small dining room mistakes they see most often that you should avoid to establish a dream scheme.

After all, a small dining room has to work just as hard as a spacious one to host friends and family, and to provide an inviting, comfortable and engaging space.

This is what the experts warn against.

The 6 mistakes to avoid in your small dining room

From a lack of good lighting to uncomfortable dining chairs and awkward sized dining tables, there are plenty of mistakes that can be made in a small dining room – so let us take you through what not to do so you can create the perfect dining room design in your small space.

1. Choosing the wrong sized dining table

A dining table that doesn't suit the shape and size of your space is one of the biggest mistakes you can make in a small dining room. As the largest and the most important piece of furniture in the room, the wrong sized dining table will only cause the rest of your dining room design to suffer.

If you're wondering how big a dining table should be compared to the room, interior designer Jaimee Longo of The Layered House says, 'choose a dining table shape that mirrors the shape of the room and fits the desired number of chairs that allows equal flow of space on each side of the table with the chairs pulled out.' 

This will ensure you have plenty of room when sat at the table and when you're moving around it.

Charu Gandhi, founder of Elicyon also advises, 'if you are designing a dining room that is limited on space, a round table can be a perfect solution. A central column reduces the footprint and chairs can be swapped out for stools that slot easily underneath. A round table is also great for entertaining, if you are partial to the odd dinner party, as the whole table faces each other, enhancing conversation. 

'If you are really pushed for space, there are some creative solutions, such as folding tables or ones with a dropleaf that can be placed against a wall to create extra floor space when they aren’t being used.'

2. Having insufficient lighting

The right dining room lighting ideas will create a cozy and inviting dining atmosphere for you and your guests. 

A lack of light (both artificial and natural) will make your dining space feel stark and cold. Having multiple sources of light and dimmable lighting is key – no-one wants to sit down and enjoy a meal under the glare of bright white light. 

From low-hanging pendant lights positioned above the dining table, to the glow of flickering candles and warming table lamps, ambient lighting will help to set the mood in your small dining room. 

It also pays to think about the natural light. For example, when planning your dining room layout, it makes sense to position your table and central seat space near to the window. As shown above, the banquette seating, round dining table and slim dining chairs sit perfectly in this cozy corner beside the window, making the most of the natural light and the view to outdoors.

3. Planning impractical seating

From chairs that are too big and take up too much space, to awkward small seats that are far from a joy to sit on, having comfortable and space-saving seating in your small dining room should be one of your priorities, and it's a mistake to not plan for them. What kind of dining chairs are best in a small space?

'Free-standing chairs can take up a lot of extra space – consider a banquette-style bench that can be integrated into the table seamlessly, therefore freeing up floor space. Bench seating can also be a great way to divide a room if you have an open-plan kitchen diner, making the room feel zoned but still offering flow. Additionally, benches can be a great way to add extra storage to the dining space with either an ottoman or built-in banquette,' advises interior designer, Charu Gandhi.

Annie Downing of Annie Downing Interiors also says a common small dining room mistake she often sees is 'not accounting for the space you need between chairs and a wall. You need enough room to pull the chairs out and sit down comfortably. Generally, you need at least 18-24 inches just for clearance to pull chairs in and out. Select chairs that are smaller in scale and a table that has leaves.'

4. Overcrowding the room with clutter

Your dining room should be a relaxing retreat away from the business of other living spaces in your home. Filling the room with unnecessary clutter (or using the space as a dumping ground for objects that do not have a home elsewhere) will not create a pleasant or inviting space that you or your guests will want to spend time in.

Interior designer, Artem Kropovinsky, says 'do not overcrowd the space with unnecessary items. A small dining room should be clean and sleek, not messy and busy. Putting too many objects and pieces of furniture in the room will take away from the main purpose of the space. Keep it simple and elegant, and only display items that add value or meaning to the space.'

5. A lack of color and character

Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams says, 'dining rooms are a nice visual break from the other spaces in your home that you spend a lot of time in, such as your kitchen or living room, so why not add some color? Using a bright shade for your dining room color ideas, like Blue Sky SW 0063, is the perfect way to incorporate a fun burst of color into your home.'

Of course, bright colors are not for everyone, so if neutral room ideas are more your style, stick to lighter colors on the wall and bring in beautiful, colorful accent notes through your furniture and accessories, such as with dining room rug ideas.

As Charu Gandhi explains, 'In a smaller dining room, the use of warmer or even darker tones can often feel overwhelming, while it may sound rudimentary to keep it light in smaller spaces to lift a room, reflective surfaces and bright white walls can make a space feel larger than it actually is.

'If you are trying to create a cozier atmosphere, adding color and texture may be your best bet. For example, adding a darker color to the walls can make a dining space feel more intimate, while brighter colors or even neutral tones can make a space feel fresher, lighter and larger.' 

6. Ignoring the potential of space-enhancing tricks

'Embrace the space you have with simple tricks and touches. If your dining room overlooks your garden, lean into the space outdoors by keeping the area around the window minimally dressed, letting your dining room flow seamlessly into the outdoors. 

'You can also create the illusion of more space by decorating with mirrors or, if you're feeling bold, an eclectic feature wall of mirrors which will bound light around your small space,' says Francesca Hadland, interiors expert at Bridgman.

FAQs

When addressing small dining room mistakes and planning a successful small-space scheme, the key is to use clever furniture, lighting, color choices and accessories that work in harmony to make the room comfortable, inviting and feel bigger.

From an elegant round dining table that is both sociable and space-saving, to making the most out of your wall space with sleek bench seating and mirrors, your small dining room should be a space that is a joy to sit and spend time in. 

Now you know the design mistakes to avoid, you will be well on your way in creating the dream dining room scheme.

Whether you are celebrating à deux over a romantic dinner at home or hosting family and friends, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to create an abundant tablescape using all your favorite tableware. 

There is little required to elevate an otherwise everyday table when you're decorating for Valentine's Day, and no need to overhaul your existing pieces. 

Dig around in your cupboards and follow these tablescaping tips to create a lavish but tasteful table at home.

1. Layer up linens

Table linens are great pieces for making any occasion a special occasion and are always my go-to when I want to set a table that's a little more memorable. 

For a smart Valentine’s dinner, start by laying pairing placemats and napkins with a color-coordinated tablecloth. If you prefer to keep things more low-key, leave out the tablecloth and lay napkins and placemats on a bare table. 

For a rich, artisanal look, layer in earthy colors and natural materials – rattan or woven reed placemats are wonderful choices if your style is more rustic and pared back.

2. Mix and match ceramics

Next, add in ceramics in coordinating tones. The same rule applies to your ceramics: use matching plates and bowls for a clean, cohesive look or mix and match various styles for something more fun and eclectic. 

If styling a combination of designs and color, make sure there is balance somewhere in the stack of ceramics – for example you might want to match your dinner plate and side plate, or dinner plate and bowl. 

I love to use mismatched dinnerware in two or three colors but make sure to use tones which feature elsewhere in my interiors scheme so that the table sits in harmony with its surroundings. 

3. Add candlelight and flowers

Though I like to steer clear from Valentine’s Day clichés, candles and flowers are an obvious exception to this rule. A scattering of candlesticks and a large vase of seasonal flowers are my go-to for a tablescape centerpiece all year round but are particularly fitting for February 14th. 

Not only are candles atmospheric and inviting, they also create warm, ambient lighting – the ideal setting for a Valentine’s date night or cozy evening in with friends. 

Complete your tablescape with a dramatic flower arrangement in the center of your table or style two or three smaller vases interspersed with candles. Opt for a less stereotypical flower choice (I love tulips and hydrangeas) and mix in some green garden foliage for added color and texture. 

Finish with some personal touches – perhaps some hand-written place cards or menus if you’re hosting on a grander scale!

Recently, Melanie Hay's clients have been keen on revamping their formal dining rooms to achieve a more functional and usable environment at home. 

Since dining rooms don't typically get used as often as other areas in the home, Melanie suggests making a splash in this space and not hesitating on adding a little drama. 

Here, she shares how she goes about it.

1. Make it special

'When designing a dining room, MAKE IT SPECIAL. Dining rooms don't usually get used every day, and are generally a space reserved for special gatherings and celebrations. Why not make this space just a little bit special and dramatic?' says Melanie, Principal at Melanie Hay Design.

2. Save 'sensible' for the kitchen

'For core everyday spaces that you spend A LOT of time in, like the kitchen, family room, living room etc, I generally suggest being more conservative in selections to make sure that you don't tire of it over time. 

'However, I think there's a bit more room for whimsy and drama in a dining room space. I always think about how I want a space to make me feel, and the dining room is a place for conversation, good times, celebration, and coming together over good food and wine with family and friends, so I think this room can handle more dynamic visual elements.'

3. Add in a statement piece

'Dining room lighting is vital. I recommend adding in a statement piece such as a gorgeous chandelier. Its large scale can create both drama and just a touch of glam without going overboard. I'm not usually a fan of really shiny, glitzy items but a dining room statement fixture like this can ride the line between glam and elegance perfectly.'

4. Think: low level lighting

'Wall sconces are another great touch for a dining room upgrade – they can be gorgeous and sculptural. They also add a really cozy wash of light to the walls in the evening, further playing into the sense of drama and ambiance that you want while entertaining.'

5. Add pattern with window dressings

'Roman blinds are a great choice for a dining space! Adding playful patterns here is a good idea! Repeating shapes and visual elements reinforces the visual theme and keeps things cohesive.'

6. Make sure chairs are comfortable for lingering

'Furniture selections are key in a dining room space and they always need to be highly functional and durable in addition to visually pleasing. For example, choosing fully upholstered high back chairs that ensure comfort for long nights around the table is a great idea – there's nothing worse than an uncomfortable chair (even though they are often beautiful!). 

'You also needed to consider durability. Think of upholstering the seat and inside backs of each chair in a vinyl, which is wipeable and less susceptible to spills and stains.'

7. Keep tablescaping subtle

'Don't go overboard with your tabletop accessories! Fresh florals, a lovely vase and some tableware or candles will do the trick. These can easily be swapped out for every season or hidden away when the formal dining room is not in use.'

Chrissy Teigen is among the influential fashion forces in Los Angeles – so it's only right that her home mirrors her style. 

It's no secret that the model, who shares her home with Grammy-award-winning singer John Legend, famously enlisted renowned designer Jake Arnold to decorate her Californian home and, when two design powerhouses unite, the result is unrivalled.  

We've already penned a love letter to Chrissy Teigen's kitchen and her luxe bathroom (drenched in pink, no less), but the model recently shared a glimpse into a new space – her dining room – and sure enough, it lives up to our expectations. 

There is much to admire about the open-plan dining space (pictured above) – from the curation of bouquets to the contemporary lighting ideas that crown the marble table. However, if we were to replicate one thing in our homes, it would have to be the warming color palette that immediately caught our attention. 

Inevitably, this scheme deserves to be replicated – but where should you begin? Here, designers respond to the space in question – and share how to recreate Chrissy Teigen's dining room color ideas in your home.  

1. Use blushing hues for a welcoming space

Misty Blush by Benjamin Moore is perfect for this. 

'What first caught my eye in this post was the texture on Chrissy's walls seemingly growing out of her floral centerpiece. I appreciate this because it brings verticality to the space, and the subtle blush hues of those "petals" against the creamy tone of her walls immediately create a warm and romantic aura,' says Los Angeles-based designer Faith Blakeney.

'This soft blush color is then complemented by the punch of her yellow dining chairs, which allows for fun and play.'

Color is extremely personal, so Faith says she would avoid using gray (seen in Chrissy Teigen's rug). 'However, the gray does create a calm atmosphere, and I can see why they went in that direction,' she says.

When curating your dining room color scheme, Faith adds that you should incorporate corals and creams to create a welcoming space that your guests can enjoy as they dine and socialize.

2. Pair soft paints with striking accent pieces

Los Angeles designer Rande Leaman emphasizes that you can recreate Chrissy's style by pairing soft or neutral hues with bold (such as the statement mustard chairs) that demand attention in the space. 

'I love the color scheme Chrissy has used in her dining area. The bright yellow-gold of the dining chairs makes a beautiful color statement within the primarily white and black space,' Rande says.

We've found a nearly identical chair from Wayfair, below.

3. Crown the space with a statement fixture 

Dining room lighting is the crowning glory of a well-designed space. In Chrissy's, the fixture acts, as Rande suggests, like 'jewelry in the room' – tying the color pairings together and creating a welcoming ambiance while making a statement. 

'The freeform lighting fixture is the stunning jewelry in the room. This look is fairly easy to replicate in your own space by selecting dining chairs in a bold hue to complement a neutral color scheme,' Rande explains. 

'I’d keep the walls white, the floors blond wood, and the accents, such as a rug in black, so the chair color really pops. Then add an organic shape to your lighting fixture, and your dining area can be as warm and inviting as this.'

Love Chrissy's recipes? Buy the book

A return to formal dining rooms is not something we would have predicted this time last year, but according to the global online marketplace Etsy, more people are looking to create a more traditional sit-down dining space in 2023 than ever before.

Interior design trends aren't always borne out but because Etsy's are based on our buying habits, their annual predictions often come true. But a return to formal dining? We're not – entirely – convinced.

Sure, the way we use our homes continues to evolve in the wake of years of uncertainty and more of us are looking to host intimate gatherings at home than ever before. This is what Homes & Gardens' editors think about the dining room trend for 2023.

It's a 'yes' for formal dining

‘The trend for a home aesthetic that’s both maximalist and nostalgic has been growing this year,' says Millie Hurst, Section Editor for Homes & Gardens. 'We’ve had “Grandmillennial”, which sees people embracing retro ornaments you’d find at your grandma’s, and Pinterest’s "Hipstoric" trend, blending G Plans with contemporary neon lighting. So I wouldn’t be at all surprised if this interest in the past translates to our dining habits – whether that’s eating in formal dining rooms rather than the kitchen table, or simply hosting at home more often. 

'Who doesn't love making a simple pasta dish more of an occasion with napkins, chargers, handwritten cocktail menus, and a slightly chintzy tablecloth?' she asks.

It's a 'maybe' for formal dining

Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Garden's Deputy Editor (digital) agrees: 'For me, the return of the formal dining room is a welcome relief, but you'll want to curate a space that can be used more often than just on special occasions,' she says. 'After all, what is the point of a room that doesn't have regular usage? Every dining room should have an inviting and convivial atmosphere. It should be a reflection of the homeowner's personality and character, not a soulless space that doesn't bring joy.'

'In a small home with limited square footage, a dining room has to work hard to earn its keep – and that requires careful planning,' Jen continues. 'Elements such as closed storage to hide office and schoolwork clutter are crucial, so bear that in mind if a formal dining room ranks high on your wish list.'

It's a 'no' for formal dining

Not everyone is thrilled at the idea of traditional dining rooms returning, however, as Lucy Searle, Global Editor in Chief for Homes & Gardens reveals. 

'The words "formal dining" fill me with horror. While I regularly entertain and always make an effort to make my dining room look beautiful, my main aim is always to ensure my guests feel relaxed. They are, after all, my closest friends, and they work hard all week long, as do I. So, I don't over-dress the table, I make the room feel warm and welcoming with pretty napkins and twinkling candlelight, and I encourage them to swap seats after courses to ensure everyone gets to catch up. And my main efforts go into the food, which is in itself hearty and often self-served.

'I regularly attend what might be called "formal dinners" for work and what is notable is how much more relaxed these have become since the pandemic,' Lucy reflects. 'Because of the business I am in, the dining rooms are always elegant and the table settings look fabulous, but the hosts are much more likely to encourage an informal atmosphere now. I went to a fabulous dinner with a well-known wallpaper and fabric brand at a gorgeous hotel when I was attending High Point Market this fall, and it ended with a karaoke. You don't get more informal than that!'

Will you be embracing a more formal dining room setup? We would love to hear from you via our social media outlets.

Source: Etsy Marketplace Insights

Are formal dining rooms still popular?

Formal dining rooms may become popular once again but in a slightly different iteration to the past. As friends and family come together to sit down and eat together more often, having designated place to set and enjoy a meal without the distractions of a television have risen in importance but might not be as formal as a closed off dining table. Instead, kitchen island seating and banquet nooks have become more popular allowing for more social iterations at dinner without the pressure of formalities. 

Is a formal dining room a waste of space?

Although not as popular as they once were, formal dining rooms are becoming less of a waste of space and more a convenient place to sit down to enjoy a meal with friends and family without external distractions. A formal dining room may be a waste of space in your home if you don't find yourself hosting groups frequently, however, or if you have a kitchen large enough for adding a conventional dining table and seating or a banquette.

The best colorful dining room ideas look beyond form and function to create an uplifting space to cook. 

When choosing dining room color ideas you’ll want to select color trends that you’ll be happy to live with for a while to come. But you might also want to consider the decorative power of each hue; not all colorful room ideas suit every space, depending on its size, architectural style, and orientation.

Different dining room paint ideas have particular benefits you may wish to exploit in your room design. Some can brighten and visually enlarge the room, while others make cleaning a less frequent necessity, for example.

Colorful dining room ideas

Our curated collection of the best colorful dining ideas will inspire you to give your entertaining and dining space a bold and bright new look.

1. Mix color with multiple patterns

'The dining room is a great way to add color and be bold since it's typically a space used for special occasions,' says Anne Hepfer, interior designer and author of Mood.  'For this particular project, our clients were super open to color and multiple patterns. The muted teal-painted dining table paired with floral multicolored skirted chairs and the block print patterned curtains make this room bold, inviting and vibrant. I love the mix in this space.'

2. Use primary colors

It is not a traditional dining room approach, but using primary colors in interior design can be done subtly and elegantly to create bright – but understated – spaces. 

Balance is important so start with neutral floorings, such as engineered wood. This will allow you to bring color through the walls and accessories. 'The rich tones in cobalt blue make a perfect foil for punchy, primary colored accessories such as the eye-catching Halo chandelier from Pooky,' says Sam Way, hard flooring buyer at Carpetright. 

3. Choose a colorful wallpaper as the starting point

Searching for dining wallpaper room ideas is a real pleasure – in our opinion. Of all the rooms in the home that deserve some indulgent decor, the dining room is out in front.

'This bold dining room features a wild wallpaper from Cole & Son, intended to evoke a feeling of looseness and delight for the guests while the chair backs are upholstered with Donghia’s Ramatuelle in Lavande, tying to the purple hues of the funky wallpaper,' says Gideon Mendelson, founder of the Mendelson Group. 

4. Use a pastel pink to ground the scheme 

The renaissance of this color is not surprising, and this subtly sweet color really comes into its own in the dining room. 

'We used Calamine by Farrow & Ball for this fun dining area,' says Mary Patton, founder of Mary Patton Design. 'Opting for this color in unexpected places gives a modern feel that makes for a light, airy, and relaxing space that neatly complements the ikat window treatments in bold green.'

5. Go for muted and stylishly subtle colors

'A colorful dining room doesn't have to be full of bright colors, it can be subtle with a mix of prints that work together because they're of the same tone,' says Andrea Childs, editor, Country Homes & Interiors. 'This Charleston-inspired space is united by the sage green that runs through the wallpaper and woodwork and is enhanced by the red check rug, chair, and seats of the dining chairs, the result is an eclectic mix that's full of color.'

6. Mismatch colors intentionally 

'High contrast color choices demand attention and bring a visceral sense of excitement and joy to a home,' says Annie Sloan, color and paint expert. 'Particularly perfect in dining spaces where conversation and energy are key. Think of clashing floors, chairs, tables, or walls rather than a few mismatched candle sticks. Surprising and invigorating color combinations will spark conversation and create atmosphere.'

7. Take the maximalist approach 

'Color in a dining room should be warm and cozy, bearing in mind it will be used mostly in the evening but should also be sunny and cheerful for use in the day,' says Penny Morrison, interior designer and founder of Penny Morrison Fabrics, Wallpapers and Home Accessories. 'If only used at night I love lacquered rooms or gloss painted in a dark color to reflect lights and candles.'

'Try a maximalist approach this year by selecting lots of colorful accessories and layering different table linens to add a variety of dimensions. Rooms need a personality and patterns and color are a great way to add this.'

'Add extra color to your table with small vases filled with a mixture of flowers – wild country ones in spring and summer, think bunches of sweet peas or hyacinths.  Alternatively, a couple of very tall glass vases with pretty branches of mimosa or blossom will look striking.'

8. Layer two similar colors for a fun celebration

'I am a big believer in layering the dining table with colorful linen, and where better to display my passion for block printing than across the table itself,' says Molly Mahon, founder of Molly Mahon. 'A bright cloth that picks out the colors of my drapes and lampshades, topped off with a joyful hand block printed runner and lots of colorful flowers picking out the pinks of the textiles.'

'Colored candles create a wonderfully cheerful atmosphere for a cozy family Sunday lunch or a dinner party with friends. A final, personal touch is the hand-printed paper chains that my children and I often make together on a weekend and it really makes the table for me.' 

9. Choose one dominate shade and add to it 

This project is a perfect example of the homeowner having complete trust in the process. We took what was previously a white box (albeit with beautiful bones) and touched every single surface. 

'This was one of my favorite projects to date, with a wonderful young family,' says Sheila Kramer, Sheila Kramer Interiors. 'We painted the ceiling in high gloss Dunn Edwards Seasonal Beige and covered the walls in ‘Arches’ by These Walls from Supply Showroom. The windows are dressed in Ferrick Mason, ‘Kinkead’ with a Samuel & Sons trim. The rug is custom from Jaipur with Love. While it’s hard to pick a hero in the room, the Urban Electric, Chiltern Double Hang in Curry may just steal the show!'

10. Embrace color in a kitchen diner 

When your dining area is in the kitchen you can embrace the colors you have there and pull them through into the rest of the scheme. 

In this case, there are the pinky napkins that match the cabinetry on the left and the green bowl that ties in with the green drape. Black is used as an accent that links the open shelving, bench, and chairs. It can be as subtle or as bold as you like, but still very doable in a combined space.

For most people, the dining room is at the heart of the holiday celebrations – especially if you're hosting Christmas dinner. And while so much focus goes into your table settings, your Christmas dining room decor is just as important.

While you want the room as a whole to feel cohesive with your Christmas table decor, there's no reason you can't make a statement elsewhere in the room. Whether you spruce up a mantelpiece, focus on the ceiling, or base your festive scheme around your existing dining room decor.

If you're struggling for inspiration, we've turned to designers to discover their favorite Christmas dining room decor ideas to bring festive cheer to this less-considered room of the home – and there's something to suit every space and style.

13 Christmas dining room decor ideas to inspire your space

From Christmas decor on the walls and ceiling to adding an extra sense of coziness, there are plenty of ways to prepare your dining room for the holidays. Don't confine the decorations to just the table – these ideas will convince you the whole room deserves a look in.

1. Create cohesion with foliage

The table is at the heart of the dining room, so when you're decorating the whole room, try to create connections between your tablescape and the rest of the scheme.

'My foundation which carries throughout the house including the table is always plenty of seasonal greenery – mixing both faux and real for effect. On mantelpieces, on windowsills, and along the table - often as a centerpiece,' says Chrissie Rucker OBE, founder at The White Company.

'I love to layer in some storm lanterns with candles (and if you wind in fairy lights - battery operated are a great option here), add a few foraged pinecones or tree decorations and the look is so festive.'

2. Decorate with red ribbons and wreaths

It can be easy to focus solely on the table when you're decorating a dining room for Christmas, but there are so many elements of the space that can be elevated for the festivities.

In this McGee & Co dining room, wreaths and ribbons have been used throughout to create a holiday theme, but in a natural and almost pared-back way to avoid the space feeling cluttered.

Wreaths hung in less expected places like the window and backs of chairs add a unique feature, white ribbons hung from the light fixture to match the wreath creates cohesion.

3. Go for a rustic, natural theme

Take inspiration from nature and create a calm, comforting space by pairing furniture and tableware in natural materials with winter foliage and candlelight.

'When decorating I love a combination of natural materials and finishes. From timber, stone, and sisal floors or rugs to touches of greenery that bring hints of the outside world in. And if possible, it is always great to have fresh flowers and a fire,' says Chrissie.

A rug and table linen in the same tone and texture have been introduced in this space, create a calm but cozy atmosphere. Seasonal sprigs and candles on the mantlepiece and table offer a nod to the holidays.

4. Match patterns for a Maximalist Christmas scheme

There's something incredibly cozy and stylish about a room featuring different components in matching patterns. In a Christmas dining room, introducing a tablecloth in the same color and pattern as your wallpaper adds a warm, comforting atmosphere.

This is a perfect Christmas dining room idea for anyone who wants to create a more maximalist Christmas scheme. In this space, a red floral pattern repeat paired with green accents instantly creates a festive palette that works with the existing decor.

5. Complement a colorful dining room

Dining rooms that are reserved for Christmas and special occasions can be fabulous places to embrace bold dining room color ideas.

Pairing dining chairs in rich berry-toned velvets with peridot green walls, as done here by Oka, is a great way to create a head-turning jewel-toned scheme, plus, upholstered dining chairs will offer wonderful comfort for guests.

When it comes to festive decor, to prevent a vibrant scheme from becoming overwhelming, choose pared-back decorations such as dried oranges and simple bunches of berry-laden foliage. For a nod to the colorful palette try adding bold dinner candles.

6. Hang your centerpiece from the ceiling

A festive centerpiece is a joyful thing – but not if it gets in the way of you either seeing your guests or being able to reach for the gravy.

‘If space is a concern, why not string a centerpiece above the dining space, leaving more room for food, drinks, and party games,’ says Claire Hornby, head of creative at Barker & Stonehouse.

‘Hanging fresh greenery and twigs accented with glittery baubles and twine will offer a natural twist, whilst a gathering of fairy lights and layered candlelight on the table and chairs will create a soft, cozy glow.’

7. Make the feast the focus

Here, in cookery writer Skye McAlpine's Christmas dining room, the table has been set sparsely in a quasi-still-life food tableau, allowing for the feast to take center stage.

Simple glass vases provide the base for an abundance of informal florals and foliage while matching glass tableware is stacked with food, all finished with oversized velvet ribbons on each place setting. The rest of the room is decorated very minimally to allow the dining table to become the focus.

8. Choose a simple, unfussy scheme in an open plan space

If you don't have a separate dining room and instead host Christmas in your open-plan kitchen diner, often the most effective table dressing is a simple one to ensure it doesn't compete with the rest of the space.

Invest in a beautiful set of dining furniture and let that be the focus. Decorate the table with fragrant springs of eucalyptus with a simple centerpiece of greenery and choose linens in neutral shades.

9. Embrace a soft, neutral palette 

Christmas decor doesn't need to be overflowing with bright colors. The restrained simplicity of a paneled room makes an elegant backdrop for festive dining. A wooden dining table speaks for itself, topped with woven placemats and organic decor.

For the rest of your dining room, stick to the same theme – this space has been decorated with kraft paper hanging stars and a simple pine centerpiece to complement the gently muted palette.

10. Add decorative swags to seating for a fabulous finishing touch

Fresh or faux, nothing says Christmas like a clutch of green branches and pine cone decorations tied up with a scarlet ribbon.

'For a dinner party, weave bright berries or fresh flowers through Christmas wreaths and place them on the backs of chairs or on the dining table for a lovely natural touch that no one will be expecting,' says Sue Jones, co-founder and creative director of Oka.

Make one for each of your dining chairs and secure them to the back of each seat with ribbons or pins. Repeat this look with a matching mantle garland spiked with red blooms or berries and again with another stretching down the center of your dining table.

12. Spruce up a dining nook with seasonal flowers and candles

Not everyone has a formal dining room – instead, dining nooks have become favorable. If you're working with a smaller nook space, opt for a more simple approach to Christmas decor.

A vase full of seasonal greenery forms a centerpiece here, paired with a few tall taper candles for a cozy ambiance. The two window sills have also been spruced up for the holidays, with short garlands placed on them to complete the natural scheme.

13. Bring a Christmas tree into the dining room

What better way to bring the festivities to your dining room than with a Christmas tree? If you have the space, it's the perfect way to create a focal point in the room and introduce all of your favorite decorations collected over the years.

However, if you don't have the space to fit a full-size Christmas tree into your dining room, why not add a mini tree instead? Place it on a cabinet or a side table so everyone around the table can see it. Or, if you opt for really small trees, use them as a centerpiece or as your Christmas mantel decor.

What can I put on my dining room table for Christmas?

There are all sorts of ways to decorate a dining table for Christmas, from simple touches like arranging candles in the center, to festive table garlands and mini table-top Christmas trees.

For a classic look you can’t go wrong with a centerpiece of fresh seasonal foliage and flowers. ‘Forage or source foliage that will last throughout the season as the base to all your floral arrangements. English pine, holly, twigs, winter eucalyptus – anything that will dry nicely and add a festive scent,’ says Ronny Colbie, luxury floral designer.

‘Once you have the base of foliage you can simply add flowers to suit and change as they wilt. For long-lasting flowers, you’re best off with Amaryllis, Hydrangea, or winter berries. For texture, you can add small baubles and dried fruits.’

Can I put my Christmas tree in the dining room?

If space allows placing a large Christmas tree in the corner of a dining room is guaranteed to bring festive splendor to the occasion.

However, if you only have a small dining room or kitchen diner you needn't miss out – there are plenty of mini table-top and small potted trees available perfect for using as a table centerpiece, styling a sideboard, or placing on a window sill to inject festive magic into your dining space. If it's in a plastic pot wrap it in fabric or hessian.

There are so many fun and festive Christmas dining room decor ideas to inspire your scheme, whether you prefer a natural, pared-back display or a more maximalist design.

It's important to know how big a dining table should be compared to the room it's in. Too small, and it will look out of place, making the space feel unwelcoming. Too large, and it will make the room feel crowded, cluttered and difficult to move around in. 

When you are looking for dining room ideas, the table is, without doubt, the central decorative feature. And while its material, finish and shape will all have a profound effect on how the room feels, its size in proportion to the room is what can make it feel out of place – or simply perfect.

Let's start with the math to work out the perfect dining table size: measure your room's length and width. Let's say it's 14ft x 10ft. Now minus 6 from each of these measurements. This gives us 8ft x 4ft, which will be the perfect size for your dining table. Any larger and there won't be enough clearance to push back chairs, any smaller and it might just look too small.

However, there are some other considerations to take into account. We asked design experts for their advice on working out your dining room table's size, to the inch.

How to measure for a dining table

‘When it comes to choosing the right table for your dining room, it’s essential to get your measurements right, as the wrong size can completely alter how your space looks, and how comfortable it is to use. Anything too big will leave the room feeling cramped, while a table that’s too small will make it feel empty and uninviting,' says Sue Jones, OKA's co-founder.

Other than doing the math above, these are what designers suggest you should consider when working out how big should a dining table be compared to the room.

1. Calculate your available floor space

What you put in a dining room besides the table will affect how big your dining table is compared to the room. Consider how much room you need for dining room storage ideas, a buffet perhaps, extra seating, perhaps even a home bar. This will give you a feel for how much room you actually have.

'The dining table should be approximately one-third of the dining space. Depending on the size of the room, it could be less; however, the dining table should be the focal point of the room without overwhelming the space,' advises interior designer Tracy Morris.

'If the room is on the smaller side but you need to seat a lot of people, you might want to forgo having a buffet or console table and get the largest table you can fit,' says Amy Forshew of Proximity Interior Design. 

2. Consider the seating plan and clearance for chairs

It's not just your table size that needs to be factored in. How many people do you need to seat regularly will affect not only how large the table is but the clearance needed behind the chairs when they are pulled in and out.

'An ideal minimum clearance between the table and wall (or object behind) is three feet,' says Noelle Parks of Noelle Interiors. 'The depth of a typical rectangle dining table ranges from 36in wide to 42in wide. Lengthwise, a general rule of thumb for table size versus number of chairs is 8ft long for an eight-person table, 6ft long for a six person table, and so on.'

'Start by thinking about how many people you can physically seat in the space,' advises OKA's Sue Jones. 'It’s important to leave enough room around the table and between each chair, so I’d recommend factoring a distance of at least 30in between the wall and the dining table, and roughly 24in between each seat. This will ensure everyone can relax, eat and move around comfortably, while also keeping the table in proportion with the rest of the room.’

3. Factor in walkways

Thoroughfares and walkways are particularly important factors if you are finding the right size dining table for a kitchen diner or open-plan space, 

'A dining table should fill the room proportionately with focus on walkways around the table,' says Michael Sandsmark of Design West Interiors. 'The table should not be too large and still leave ample room for walking around a guest that might be seated.'

4. How will you use the room?

A dining room is, of course, about being sociable, as much as it is about being functional. So, consider the usage of the room and how you want it to feel. What is its main purpose?

'The size of a dining room table relative to the room in general is important. However, it is more important to consider the size relative to the guests around the table. Is this a dining environment where you expect guests to have table wide conversations or is this an environment where guests will chat mostly with their neighbors? This, more than the size of the room, is paramount in determining the ideal size for a dining table,' says interior designer Phillip Thomas.

'Personally, I have seen that smaller dining rooms can afford to be dominated by a table which is large in relation to the overall space, leaving little room to move around the chairs. It helps to create a really cozy and intimate setting and these rooms can be decorated to great effect,' says  Amanda Huber, Owner, Dining Chair Co.

'You want to allow 3 feet of space minimum, but if you have a big room then fill it with the table. The scale of the table can add drama to the space,' says Emma Sims Hilditch of Sims Hilditch.

5. Think about the dining table's positioning

'The decision as to whether the table will sit in the center of a room or needs to be to one side will determine the table size, too,' says Amanda Huber of Dining Chair Co. 'It's very much dependent on how you intend to use the dining area and how many people you'd be looking to seat at any one time.'

'When placing a dining table in the room, always make sure the table, light fixture, and entrance of the room are in line and center with one another. Following this rule will allow for ample space on all sides of the table,' says Malka Helft, Think Chic Interiors.

'Ultimately, if the table is in the center of the room then the main thing to avoid is having too much space around it so that the table looks like it's floating in the middle of nowhere,' continues Amanda Huber. 'There should be a minimum of 3 feet from the table side to the wall or other furniture to allow the chairs to be pulled in and out. This should increase to 5 to 6 feet to allow people to walk behind the chairs when pulled out. If the table is to one side, then the use of banquette seating or dining benches can really help reduce the space required on the other side to allow for free movement around the space.'

6. Consider the room's ceiling height

Don't just think width and length of your dining room when choosing a table size, think height, too.

'The dining table's size can really depend on the ceiling height of the room as higher ceilings make a room feel larger,' says Amy Forshew of Proximity Interior Design.

Amanda Huber, Owner, Dining Chair Co, expands: 'With a larger room that has plenty of light, a dining table with a smaller footprint that helps to keep the space open and airy would suit best. It'll keep the space flowing and allow it to feel more spacious, but with the right dining room lighting scheme and dimmer controls, you can easily change the mood and atmosphere with the flick of a few switches.'

How wide should a dining table be?

To be comfortable, a dining table should be at least 36 to 40in wide. This allows for place settings either side and enough room for dishes to sit between.

How wide is too wide for a dining table?

A dining table that's over 45 to 50in wide is too wide. Much over 4ft and it becomes impossible to reach across the table comfortably or two hear what the person opposite you is saying at a lively dinner party. 

'What kind of dining chairs are best' is a topic of endless debate among interior designers and often one of the most challenging parts of designing a dining room.

With such a wide variety of seating designs available, from formal, upholstered chairs to relaxed wooden designs and benches, finding the right seating for your dining room ideas can be daunting. 

Choosing dining chairs is hugely subjective, and which design is best for you will ultimately depend on personal taste and what you find comfortable, however, there are plenty of other factors to take into account that may have an impact.

To help you make the right choice, we asked interior designers for their advice on what kind of dining chairs are best – here's what they had to say.

What kind of dining chairs are best?

To find out what kind of dining chairs are best for your space one of the first things to do is to examine how you use your dining room. Do you have a separate dining room reserved for entertaining, or is your dining area part of a multifunctional kitchen diner? 

The shape and the size of the dining table you choose will also have a big impact plus there's also look and style to take into account. No matter what, comfort should be the deciding factor, says New York City-based interior designer Phillip Thomas. 'If the chair is not comfortable, there is no delicious menu or fine wine that can make up for an uncomfortable chair.' 

Also, regardless of style, 'a dining chair should always have a seat height of around 19in,' says Simon Temprell, interior design manager at Neptune.

Below we've listed some key aspects to consider when buying dining room chairs including advice from interior designers on the pros and cons of different designs.

To upholster or not to upholster?

When it comes to comfort, nothing beats an upholstered dining chair, plus they offer the chance to showcase beautiful colored and patterned fabrics. Upholstered armchairs work well in formal traditional dining rooms helping to bring grandeur and a sense of occasion to dinner parties.

'Upholstered dining chairs are more luxurious, and bring a feeling of softness and warmth into a space,' says Simon Temprell, interior design manager at Neptune.

'Typically the best dining chairs are upholstered with a rounded shape. They will curve to your back and create comfort for your guests,' adds interior designer Tracy Morris.

Designer Phillip Thomas is also an admirer and suggests that 'upholstery is one of the elements that can aid in creating a cozy dining environment. Upholstered chairs are also very helpful for sound mitigation. As we all know, dining rooms can often be noisy due to a lack of sound absorbing surfaces.'

However, if you have a dining area in an open-plan living room or are looking for kitchen seating ideas you may want to opt for something less formal.

'In a high-traffic area such as a kitchen or breakfast room (or a home with young children and pets) it would be best to choose a timber or painted chair for practicality and easy clean-up,' says Simon Temprell. Of course, to make them more comfortable you can always add seat pads.

Alternatively, if you have a small dining room, then consider lightweight, stackable designs made from metal or plastic. 

Are dining chairs with arms better?

Another big debate when it comes to dining room seating is whether to choose chairs with or without arms – again, there are pros and cons for both designs. If space is tight armless chairs are undoubtedly more practical, but if space isn't an issue then they can be luxuriously comfortable and versatile.

'I love seats with arms, as they’re the ultimate in comfort and can double up as a reading or occasional chair, but they do require a little more space – as a general rule, they need an extra 7in per chair, which is why they’re often used at the head of the table,' explains Sue Jones, co-founder and creative director at Oka. 'If you’ve got a round table, or lots of room to play with, nothing could feel more inviting than armed chairs placed all the way around – your guests will thank you for it.’

Alternatively, New York City-based interior designer Phillip Thomas describes how they can hinder engagement. 'Some clients of mine find that armed chairs put up an invisible fence between guests while armless chairs allow people to be closer to one another. An armless chair is also better if space is limited. You can seat many more people around a table when using armless chairs.'

Take care with fabric choice 

Dining rooms are places susceptible to spillages, so if you're considering upholstered dining room chairs then take care with your fabric choice.

Choose fabrics that are hard-wearing and stain-resistant says Roger Jones, director of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler. 'Leather and horsehair are traditional, but there are plenty of modern fabrics that are equally practical.

'In the summer, simple linen slip covers on the dining chairs can transform the look of the room – and can easily be put in the washing machine if they become marked,' he adds. 

This is a good choice for those who have little children or have dining tables in busy areas exposed to lots of wear and tear, plus, they can be a great way to refresh the look of a dining space from season to season.

The great thing about upholstered armchairs is that you can get creative with fabrics and with such a wide array to choose from there's guaranteed to be something to match the look and feel you're after. While staining can be a drawback, 'developments in the textile industry have seen the introduction of various stain-resistant and performance fabrics including velvets, chenilles and linens that are life-proof,' says Amanda Huber, owner of Dining Chair Co, so there's no need to compromise on style.

For a more casual dining room, 'using colorful dining chairs is an unexpected way to add a playfulness to the room,' suggests Anne Hepfer. Alternatively, you could make a real statement with a bold, patterned design.

'We prefer seats that aren't too heavy. A seat with two-piece composition allows for more fun with fabric combinations to brighten up the room,' adds Michael Sandsmark, interior designer at Design West. For a design that is both stylish and practical, you could try using a basic stain resitant design on the seat with a statement design on the back of the chair.

Think about back height

It may not be the first thing that you think about when choosing dining chairs, but the back height of a chair can impact both the comfort of the seat and the look of the room say experts. High-backed dining chairs work well in formal settings and traditional dining rooms, while low-backed designs have a more relaxed feel.

'Historically, upholstered dining chairs tended to be higher backed both for support and warmth – our Cromwell, Georgian and Classic Adam designs are great examples of this. Nowadays though, lower-backed chair designs have really grown in popularity as they suit the more contemporary settings that modern-day living brings,' says Amanda Huber, owner of Dining Chair Co. 

'Some of our clients will choose a higher back if they have chosen an impactful fabric to make a statement, and wish to be able to see it clearly across the table or as they enter the room,' adds Amanda Huber.

Alternatively, if you don't want to distract from other features within the room then more discreet low-backed designs are a better option. Similarly, designs with an open frame like wooden Scandinavian or Mid-century style designs are perfect if you're looking to make a room feel more spacious.

Simon Temperall of Neptune advises that, 'chairs with a taller back or tufting tend to feel more formal, whereas chairs with a lower back are much more versatile and work just about anywhere in the home.'

'If you want your dining room to look elegant and elevated, go for a dining chair with a tall back,' adds Anne Hepfer.

Consider bench seating for a relaxed feel

Bench seating is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to dining chairs, especially in kitchen diners and open-plan living spaces. 

Their backless design keeps sightlines clear, making spaces feel open, plus benches help rooms feel more sociable, and, while they may not be as comfortable as seats, they can easily be made more comfortable with the addition of bench cushions or sheepskin throws. Furthermore, table and bench sets that have benches designed to fit neatly under the table make wonderful seating solutions for small spaces.

We're also seeing the return of banquette seating. Like benches, banquettes can contribute to a relaxed ambiance and encourage interaction. 'I like to build banquettes around the perimeter to create a lounge-like environment that can be attractive and useful during cocktail parties,' says interior designer Phillip Thomas. 

However, the drawback of seating with fitted fabric is that it can be hard to clean upholstery, so consider a material that is easy to wipe; cleaning faux leather is easier than tackling the real thing. 

'Remember that leather is not as practical as it might seem in a dining room: oil and grease will soak into the leather, leaving dark marks that are very difficult to remove,' warns designer Simon Temprell. 

Alternatively, try a banquette in a dark fabric that will better disguise stains and add color with bold cushions, as is demonstrated in the space above by Salvesen Graham. 

The power of lighting is unrivalled – especially when your fixtures sit in harmony with one another. But do kitchen and dining room lights have to match? There are certainly benefits to exhibiting a seamless transition between your spaces – but how important is this flow?   

When it comes to planning kitchen lighting ideas, you may take a step back to observe how your chosen fixtures appear in relation to your wider scheme. And as an extension to your kitchen (both in terms of its position and its uses), your dining room is a natural starting point. However, despite its proximity and similarities, your kitchen and dining room lights may not need to be identical. 

Whether you're working with an open-plan kitchen and dining space or you dine in an adjoining room, these expert dining room lighting ideas will help you curate a designer flow instantly. 

Do kitchen and dining room lights have to match?

Ultimately, the answer to the question of whether kitchen and dining room lighting has to match is that it comes down to personal preference. However, designers suggest that the best choice is for lights that look coordinated, even if they do not match completely. 

'Lighting a dining room requires different types of lighting to that of a kitchen, so you are unlikely to be able to match everything completely,' explains Marketa Rypacek, the managing director at Industville. 'However, you can still use lights from the same material and even those from the same collection to give a uniform look.'

For example, if you have incorporated pendants into your kitchen island lighting ideas, you may want to complement your choice with a statement pendant over your dining room table. This look is particularly effortless if you buy your fixtures from one supplier as they often feature the same fitting type but have different shades. 

'This could be another way in which to coordinate your look while still adding interest and zoning the two spaces,' Marketa adds. 

Similarly, Julian Page, the head of design at BHS, suggests using different kitchen and dining room lights is acceptable (and sometimes required). However, when mixing lights, it's important to always consider scale and ensure the sizing is balanced within the room. 

'If you're using a large statement over the island or dining table, consider more pared-back pieces for the rest of the space,' he says. It is also necessary to curate your kitchen and dining room accessories alongside the fixtures, and to ensure you have judged correctly how far above a table a light should hang.

'Mixing various textures and styles can create dimension, warmth, and depth,' Julian says. 'Whether you choose different finishes or styles, find something that will tie each of the fittings together to create a cohesive look.'

Can you mix lighting styles in the kitchen? 

'You can absolutely mix lighting styles in a kitchen; I would recommend it,' Marketa Rypacek, managing director at Industville says. 'A kitchen requires a whole spectrum of different lighting styles to enable the correct lighting for the variety of different tasks that take place in a modern kitchen.'

If you're wondering how to choose kitchen lighting professionally, Marketa recommends starting by looking at the areas of your kitchen and thinking about the activities that will take place in each place. 

For example, 'some spaces, such as food preparation zones, the kitchen sink, and above the hob, will require task lighting, while other quieter corners may call for mood and accent lighting,' she says. 

Alternatively, Lee Lovett, founder of The Soho Lighting Company, recommends mixing varying tones of metals to go 'above and beyond for your home interiors.'

'To successfully mix metals in a kitchen, select one dominant finish and complement or accent with up to two others. Where chrome is the most popular metal finish in a kitchen, it is totally acceptable to mix with brass, as long as it's carried throughout the space,' the expert adds. 

It seems there is a reason why this mixed-metal look is at the peak of kitchen lighting trends, and we expect they will continue to dominate for the foreseeable. 

The centerpiece is the most impactful element in curating a beautiful tablescape – so it is important to get it right. While it may feel hard to go wrong with a timeless vase, candlestick, or fruit bowl – you can accentuate their beauty further with the right advice.

As we move into fall, you may be wondering how to dress a dining table that celebrates the season – whether you're looking to create a statement pumpkin piece or you're adding warmth with a large candle. And though your tablescape may change across the calendar, the rules for curating the perfect centerpiece remain the same. 

What are the rules for a table centerpiece? 5 tips experts want you to remember

Whether you're still managing to enjoy some al-fresco outdoor dining ideas or you're already thinking ahead to Thanksgiving centerpiece ideas. These centerpiece rules will ensure your table provokes conversation for all the right reasons. 

1. Limit the size of your centerpiece 

Your guests will likely be the main reason you create a beautiful tablescape. Therefore, it's important to keep them in mind when choosing your centerpiece. 

'If your centerpiece is too tall, it will block your guests' line of sight, too small, and perhaps the table won't be as impactful as it could be,' says Seb Bishop, CEO and creative director at Summerill & Bishop. 

Seb explains that he is often drawn to seasonal flowers in various bud vases that are cut to differing heights that trail zealously down the middle of the table. This will allow you to create your' own wildflower garden' along your table without interrupting the view of the person opposite. 'The whole point of setting a beautiful table is to spend time with your loved ones, and so you want to accommodate conversation between you and your guests as possible,' he adds. 

2. Consider the shape of your table

When thinking about your centerpiece, it may be natural to focus exclusively on the feature in question. However, Seb urges you to take a step back and focus on the centerpiece in regard to the table as a whole. 

'Always consider the shape of the table. I find that round tables suit a single, tall centerpiece best, whereas rectangular tables require more generous attention to avoid seeming sparse and lonely.'

3. A statement vase will go a long way 

Vases have an eternal place at the peak of dining room trends, and all for a good reason. This timeless statement is versatile with the seasons – whether you fill it will fall-inpsired foilage or holly at christmastime. However, as Seb suggests, you don't need to fill your vase with flowers to enjoy their style on your tablescape. 

'Pieces by Astier de Villatte have an unrivaled way of making the moment or occasion feel extra special and elevated,' the expert recommends. 

4. Experiment beyond flowers

Flowers will always have a place as a table centerpiece. But as dining room trends change, our centerpiece ideas should evolve to include a unique variety of decor.

'The table is your canvas to be as creative as you like, and so you could use anything from fresh herbs and botanicals that complement the food you’re serving... or family trinkets and mementos that act as conversation starters,' Seb explains. 'The point is to make the table unique to you – the most beautiful tables are always the ones that feel most personal.'

5. Lighting is crucial

Ambient lighting ideas are crucial in every space, but (arguably) none more so than the dining room. This is a place where your family and guests enjoy food and good conversation, and your light levels have an influence on the practicality and enjoyment of both these elements. 

'I like to use lots of candles to set the mood,' Seb suggests. 'Plus, the flickers of candlelight create the most beautiful shadows on the walls, further adding to the atmosphere of the evening.'

What is the maximum height a table centerpiece should be?

As Seb suggests, the size of your centerpiece is significant in the success of your tablescape. So which measurements should you remember when choosing your statement feature? 

Head of Brands at Portmeirion, Andrea Waters, suggests that ' a 9-inch vase filled with freshly-cut flowers' is the 'perfect' size for a centerpiece – as it will start a conversation – without getting in the way of one. 

How far above a table should a light hang is a hotly debated question in interior design and one which is important to address if you're considering hanging a pendant over a dining table.

When it comes to dining room lighting ideas, incorporating a large sculptural pendant light or chandelier above a dining table is a popular choice. As well as providing both general and more direct task lighting over a table, they can help create a cozy atmosphere and make beautiful design features whether switched on or off. 

Choosing the design is the fun part, as there's such a huge array of styles available, but when it comes to fitting it can be a tricky to know what is best. Too high and it may feel lost, too low and you risk the light obstructing views and it becoming a safety hazard.

If you're planning lighting a dining room with a hanging pendant and are eager to know how far above a table should a light hang, then read on to find out what the interior designers had to say.

How far above a table should a light hang?

Generally the advice is that a light should hang around 3 feet above a dining table with 'the bottom of the light to hang just above eye-line, so it doesn’t obstruct the view across the table,' says Simon Temprell, interior design manager at Neptune. 

However, this is not a strict rule and will depend on a number of factors including the size of the room and how the light looks in proportion to the space. Whether you want the light to provide direct light or more general light will also play a part. In order to get it right it's important to be present at the installation.

'This is a question my staff and I debate constantly!' says interior designer Amy Forshew. 'While the rule of thumb is at least 36 inches above the table, I insist on being there when the electrician hangs the light. Every room is different – I take into consideration the ceiling height, the size and scale of the chandelier, the mass of the table, and most of all my clients!' 

Similarly, interior designer Susan Sutter suggests that 'ideally, the bottom of the light fixture should hang 30-36 inches above the standard 30 inch high table top, being sure the bottom of the light doesn't block anyone's view.' 

However, some interior designers suggest to hang lights at greater heights, which goes to prove that there is no one rule fits all.

'40-44 inches is the typical height chandeliers are installed above dining tables, but with a more sprawling light it's possible to hang slightly lower to give more of a restaurant feel,' suggests Michael Sandsmark of Design West Interiors. 

Alternatively, interior design Phillip Thomas suggests a gap of 6 feet from the table to the bottom of the chandelier, but adds that 'this is just a starting point in the height negotiation. There are many factors that can dictate a chandelier height –aesthetics, site lines, architecture etc.'

Take ceiling height into account

While having a 36 inch gap between a table top and the base of a ceiling light is often cited as a good distance for a light to hang above a dining table, if you have a large room with high ceilings you may want to consider hanging the ceiling light higher. 

'Generally, the taller the ceiling the more clearance you want so the hanging fixture balances with the scale of the space,' says Noelle Parks, interior designer and founder of Noelle Interiors.

'For a room with 8ft to 10ft high ceilings, I recommend 36 inches – 42 inches of clearance from the bottom of the light fixture to the top of the table. This puts the fixture between 5ft 6 inches to 6ft above the floor – about eye level when standing up,' adds Noelle Parks.

Tracy Morris concurs, suggesting that, 'if you have 8ft ceilings, the standard rule is to hang the chandelier 36 inches above the table. If your ceilings are 10ft, we like to hang the chandelier 40-42 inches above the table.'

Consider scale 

When deciding how far above a table to hang a light there are practical issues to consider, including not obstructing sight lines, but also key is how the light looks aesthetically within the space. In order to see if where it hangs works with the proportions, be sure to take a step back say the experts.

‘It is important to be present during chandelier installations to ensure that the height is perfect. Viewing the chandelier both from a standing and a sitting position is key,' says Phillip Thomas.

'A good general rule of thumb is to hang the fixture 3 feet above your table or higher. This may change a bit depending on the view within the room, which will also allow you to determine what size and style of lighting fixture would work in the dining room,' adds Malka Helft, Think Chic Interiors.

However, for Susan Sutter it's important for a light not to hang too high as, 'keeping the link between the table and light is critical so they are viewed as one element.'

Finally, perhaps just as critical as the height is making sure the light hangs in the right place over a dining table. Generally the centre is the go-to, but this will vary if you are hanging a series of light fittings as part of a design feature.

'When placing a dining table in the room, always make sure the table, light fixture, and entrance of the room are in line and center with one another. Following this rule will allow for ample space on all sides of the table,' says Malka Helft of Think Chic Interiors.

What type of light is best above a dining table?

When it comes to above-table lighting there are many different designs to available. While ceiling spotlights will are a good general light source, hanging ceiling light above the table is a popular choice with interior designers as it can also serve as a design feature. 'Incorporating a large sculptural light or chandelier above the dining table can also be used to create a focal point and create atmospheric light in the evening,' says Clara Ewart, Head of Design at Kitesgrove.

'We like to use oversize and often fairly low hanging pendant lighting in a dining room. This fills the space and makes a dramatic statement in what might otherwise be a fairly traditional design,' says interior designer Tracy Morris.

When choosing a ceiling light take a cue from the architecture and choose a piece that works with the proportions of your room. 'If you are lucky enough to have a dining room with high ceilings and windows, having a statement light pendent is a great way to fill the space and adds an element of drama to the design,' says Louise Wicksteed, design director of Sims Hildtich.

The type of pendant lighting you choose will also be determined by the style and look of space you wan to create. For a traditional space 'choose a chandelier over the center of the table to bring a strong focal point to the room as well as a luxe element,' says Shalini Misra of Shalini Misra Ltd.

'Don’t forget to install a dimmer! Everyone looks better in dim lighting – candle light is the best light,' adds Phillip Thomas.

However, there are some designers who believe hanging lights over a dining table is not the right choice. 'Bright overhead lights at dinner are a pet hate of mine,' says Caroline Inchyra of fabric house Inchyra. 'I wouldn’t specifically put lights in over the table – leave that to candles – and think about wall lights to give a glow behind everyone.'

If you are an entertainer at heart, then these unforgettable Restoration Hardware dining room ideas are for you. 

Hosting season is just around the corner and that means those dining rooms – otherwise known as the household catchall – need to be in tip-top shape before guests arrive. Whether you opt for a round or rectangle, statement chandelier or delicate pendants, bar cart or buffet, wallpaper, art or both, these spaces are sure to inspire that inner entertaining spirit. 

Restoration Hardware dining room ideas

Here, we picked the brains of a few top interior designers to dish on their recipes for the perfect dining room ideas.

1. Lighten up in dim dining room

When it comes to Restoration Hardware dining rooms – lighting a dining room well is a priority. Kicking things off is senior designer of Ontario-based design firm Aspen & Ivy, Ria DaCosta explaining that 'a great dining room design should feature various light sources, from a statement chandelier to wall sconces or even table lamps to help set the ambience for an enticing dining experience.' 

Fellow Canadian, Toronto-based interior designer Anne Hepfer concurs, adding, 'A statement light fixture above the table is a necessary focal point, and the jewelry of any dining room.' She points out that a statement fixture is a great opportunity to show some creativity and personality in the space. 'I believe lighting is the key element for creating flow, almost more so than furniture.' Houston-based designer Nina Magon drives the point home, 'Nothing says wow like an eye-catching chandelier above a dining table. Lighting can be such a bold element to can bring some drama into a space.'

2. Create a conversation starter

To art or to wallpaper? Hepfer prefers both. 'I use them in harmony,' she explains, 'both mediums do wonders for making a room pop!' And when this designer commits she does so in a big way. 

'When I install wallpaper, I install a lot of it – for example, I might wallpaper an entire dining room (ceiling included), and, of course, art can stand on its own, but it’s also dynamic when layered atop a wallpaper foil.' 

Houston-based designer Katie Davis turns to wallpaper any chance she can. 'If I could put wallpaper in every room I would,' says the designer. 'Dining room wallpaper adds texture, pattern, interest – sometimes it is the art in the room and sometimes it’s a background, but wallpaper brings a big serving of wow-factor in the dining room.' 

3. Consider form and function 

Flow and functionality are key elements to the success of every room. 'Dining rooms need to be functional,' explains DaCosta. 'In order to be complete the space needs the appropriate shape and size dining table for the room along with the number of guests who may be seated.' Dining room storage pieces like cabinets and sideboards also serve to satisfy the function of the space while also doubling as showcase pieces. 

South Florida-based designer Laetitia Laurent, of Laure Nell Interiors, adds her entertaining must-have. 'I’ve been adding bar carts in the dining room and our clients have been loving the addition,' states the design. 'It really comes in handy when you are having large gatherings and is the perfect beauty-meets-function piece.'

4. Find a place for everything 

'The most important thing is making sure your measurements are spot on,' states New York-based interior designer Cara Woodhouse. 'You don't want to crowd your table with too many chairs around and you want to be sure to give your guests the most comfortable experience possible when seated – you want a minimum of 36” behind your chair to pull out comfortably and 8-12” in between chairs – this is the first step in designing your dining room.' 

DaCosta adds, 'Every dining room should have a sideboard – it just doesn’t feel quite complete without one.' Not only are these storage pieces practical, but they’re also the perfect opportunity to make a big style statement. 'If you have an open concept living and dining space then sideboards can help define the dining area separating it from other spaces through stylish functionality.'

5. Size matters when it comes to the dining table

Let’s talk tables – round, rectangle, square or oval, options may be endless but what’s best for your space? 

'I tend to start with a round dining table,' shares Hepfer. They’re so conducive to conversation and eye contact with everyone seated, but overall, the function should drive the details.' Determining whether the dining room is for everyday family meals or occasional holidays and formal events is another important consideration that will aid to the feel and flow of the space. 

DaCosta warns to 'make sure that the furniture is well proportioned to the space to encourage good flow. I also like to incorporate occasional seating in dining rooms so people have a more relaxed and casual place to sit before or after dining.' Davis often turns to a chic uptick on a classic style. 'We love RH’s classic farmhouse style tables – the Cayden table or something from its French Contemporary collection –they feel warm and inviting.'

6. Connect through comfort

'A comfortable dining chair is what it’s all about,' declares Woodhouse. 'There are too many uncomfortable ones out there so make sure you sit in many different chairs that give you comfort and the support you need.' It’s no secret that options are plenty. DaCosta often defaults to a more classic approach. 'I love an upholstered or slipcovered dining chair, which gives the option to customize the fabric selections,' she explains. 

7. Serve up style inspiration 

With lighting, chairs and tables taking their positions, it’s time to consider the important details that make a dining room that much more tantalizing – dining table decor, of course. 'You definitely need some beautiful serving ware,' encourages Woodhouse who loves a touch of natural stone or brushed metal to her tabletop displays. 'I love having beautiful dishes and flatware accompanied by interesting serving plates and platters, and I also love a linen napkin with stone napkin rings for formal or informal dinner parties.'

DaCosta agrees, adding, 'table linens and centerpieces are the necessary finishing touches to complete any great dining room – for the ultimate optimizing, put together a deliberate palette or materials and colors for your table linens, like napkins, placemats, and table runners, along with a direction for your centerpiece which should be sculptural, a group of decorative vase, or the soft glow of candles.'

8. Take risks with design 

The dining room is the perfect space to take some bold design risks. 'It can be fun to use different but complementary fabrics on the chair seats and backs,' suggests Hepfer who loves to use chair upholstery as her medium for injecting an eye-popping color in an otherwise subtle scheme. 'I’ve introduced dining room color schemes in cobalt blue, Kelly green, and lemon yellow, and they’re always a client favorite,' shares the designer. 

DaCosta also loves a mix-and-match design scheme. 'Consider putting a fabric on the chair seat that differs from the fabric on the chair back – mix and match your chairs so that the host chairs – those at the heads of the table – are a different style than the others.  

DaCosta’s playful mismatched approach even extends to the table itself. 'I often mix and match materials like pairing a metal base dining table with stone top with upholstered chairs that have wood legs – this is how you achieve a truly customized and unique looking dining room.' 

Laurent shares her recipe for keeping things alive with layers of interest but also cohesive, 'I like to mix styles of tables and chairs but I make sure all the pieces are going to the same party, so I create commonality through customization,' she explains. 'I might refinish some antique chairs in a new color to match the table for example.'

9. Turn to nature 

New York-based designer Laurence Carr turns to nature for her entertaining essentials. 'Visually we strive for stunning aesthetics but also the following biophilia and lighting,' says the designer, who is well-known for creating well-designed spaces through flora and fauna. 

'The balance in maximizing natural light and providing flexible lighting solutions, and thoughtfully integrating plant-life in interior design are timeless ways to encourage wellbeing through the healing power of nature, cleaner air, and the meditative care of plants.' 

Carr stresses that the addition of 'natural elements like plant-life, blooms, cooking herbs or even the visuals of nature landscape has myriad positive benefits that are too-often overlooked when entertaining guests in a dining room.'

10. Put the focus on material 

Philadelphia designer Maria Viola-Kuttruff turns to the art of the material mix when making a statement in a dining room. 'We almost always mix materials,' says the designer. 'A room will quickly become visually stagnant if you only use one type of materiality for the occasional pieces, but mixing in woods, glass and metal will allow a space, especially a dining room, to look and feel more curated and thoughtful.' 

DaCosta adds that curation is key within a dining room. 'I’m drawn to the curated look of RH,' states the designer. 'I love that each piece looks intentionally collected, carrying a uniqueness only recognized as RH – it’s like acquiring antiques or custom designed pieces without having to rummage through endless antique shops.'

Dining rooms have evolved hugely over the years. They started as formal rooms in grand homes for hosting and symbolizing status, then, for a while, they disappeared almost entirely, with designs favoring open plan and casual arrangements.

But in 2026, the dining room is back, reviving the best of their past and combining it with new, more functional requirements. And the way you design it is key to the success, not just visually, but as a practical part of your home, too.

And who better to inspire your dining room than interior designers who have tried it all? Here's how they design and decorate a dining room that blends aesthetics, function, and long-lasting style, and how they can inspire your own scheme.

36 Dining Room Ideas For a Chic-Meets-Functional Design

Whether you have a grand dining room that needs a fresh look or a small nook you want to make chic, there are so many fun and thoughtful ways to give it a lift. Even if you need it to become a multi-functional room, this year's dining room trends prove that the practical details needn't impact the appearance of your scheme.

So, if you need some inspiration, look no further. These designer-approved ideas will help you to reinvent your dining room in no time.

1. Wood Drench For a Country Cabin Feel

The drenching trends have taken the design world by storm in recent years, and in the dining room, wood drenching can be an impactful choice, especially if you are surrounded by countryside views.

'This is a mountain cabin vacation getaway for a young family. The 1980s A-frame was purchased originally for the husband's hunting cabin. The original goal was a "simple refresh," but as we entered the design process, the clients changed their directive: Let's see what you would do to create an undercover-fancy retreat,' says interior designer Allison Lind.

'It's tucked on a woodsy hillside, so our goal was to create a space that felt at home in its environment. The family wanted this space as a getaway from city life – the experience while there should be universal inside and out. We intentionally designed the whole interior so that there isn't one inch of flat, white drywall exposed. It's wrapped in natural materials and textures wherever possible.'

2. Add an Antique Hutch to Display Your Favorite Dinnerware

If you love to host, you've probably got a beautiful collection of dinnerware hidden away in your kitchen cupboards. But these pieces can double as decor in your dining room, especially if you find a beautiful antique or vintage furniture piece to display them on, like in this dining room.

'The clients wanted a dining room that felt special and glamorous. The room didn’t get a lot of natural light, so we leaned into the dark color, but the wallpaper still feels sparkly with its gold details. Our clients already had a gorgeous collection of dinnerware that they wanted to display, so we found a lovely antique hutch for that purpose,' says interior designer Jessica Helgerson.

'We love the contrast of the old patinated hutch and the modern wallpaper, the vintage rug, and the modern chandelier. As we furnish our projects, we are often bouncing between traditional and modern, old and new – it helps to create a more dynamic, collected feeling to a room.'

3. Go Bold With a Colorful Dining Table

When you think of a dining table, a wooden design probably comes to mind. Yes, it's a classic, but it's also an area where you can get a bit more creative and introduce a really striking focal point, like in this dining room by Studio Duggan.

A bold red dining table has been introduced, infusing the space with color and playful style. It balances the busy wallpaper on the walls and takes the design from mostly neutral to something more showstopping.

Paired with more traditional dining chairs and a terracotta-toned rug, the space feels characterful and full of personality. It's warm and welcoming, rather than an intimidating formal room typical of bygone eras.

4. Embrace Moody Colors For a More Intimate Space

Dining room colors are a crucial part of the design, setting the tone and mood for the entire space. And while it can be tempting to go light and bright, there's something a bit cozier and a bit more interesting about decorating with moody colors, as shown in this dining room.

'The color palette of the dining room relates to the beautiful cement tile checkerboard floors in the adjacent kitchen. We added a beautiful, wide opening so that these two areas could be more connected. The dining room is also congruent with the living room – the sheer draperies are also in olive green so that the whole first floor has a cohesive look,' explains interior designer Bethany Adams.

'The dining room is incredibly simple, so each piece needed to carry a lot of weight design-wise. The starting point for the room was this incredible vintage brown marble dining table I bought at auction for the clients. The shape and size are perfect for the nearly square room, allowing guests to freely flow around it and into the other rooms. From there, brown velvet on the dining chairs was an easy and practical choice.'

5. Let Architectural Features Become the Star of the Dining Room

Sometimes the design of a dining room is less about reimagining the space with decor and more about honoring and highlighting what already exists. If your dining room benefits from beautiful architecture, let that be the focus of your design. Here, walls of windows, original ceiling beams, and organic materials led the design.

'The clients envisioned a dining space that made entertaining effortless while honoring their family’s history and the natural beauty of Lake Travis. As a generational home, the room needed to feel deeply connected to its surroundings – refined and simple, never fussy – with materials that would age gracefully and tell their own story,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan.

'This home had such incredible bones, and we wanted every detail to highlight that craftsmanship. Rather than competing with the architecture, the design choices were made to complement it. The lighting fixture, inspired by a tree on the property, became a sculptural nod to the landscape, while the simple silhouettes and natural textures throughout the space allowed the architectural materials to take center stage.'

She continues: 'Even with its expansive windows and stone floors, warmth comes through in the layered textures and organic tones. The natural wood table anchors the room with its rich grain, while the slipcovered chairs bring softness and comfort.'

6. Maximize Seating Space with a Kitchen Banquette

Even if you don't have a separate dining room, you can still create the illusion of one by carefully dividing your kitchen. Banquette seating is a stylish and effective way of zoning a dining area without making the room feel small or overcrowded, as shown in this design by Alison Lind Interiors.

'When we were renovating this kitchen, the existing large window along the side of the house proved tough. It was placed too low for cabinetry, and the previous floor plan had that space as a formal dining room with a floating table. But in that setup, there wasn't room for much else, and storage was at a premium,' explains Allison.

'So instead, we opted to maximize the perimeter with full-height storage and get a casual family dining space via the built-in aspect. And the L-shaped banquette helps connect the functional kitchen space and adds cabinetry, so nothing feels disparate. It invites a more casual, cozy experience.'

7. Mix Furniture Styles for an Eclectic Feel

The key to creating a warm, welcoming dining room? Introduce an eclectic mix of furniture to bring character and interest to the scheme – extra points if you can make them vintage. In this dining room of this New York apartment, warm hues and characterful furniture instantly bring the room to life.

'The clients wanted their dining room to feel inviting and lived-in, a place that could easily transition between family dinners and gatherings with friends. As a family of five, comfort and flexibility were key. The vintage 1970s sofa beside the dining table encourages lingering conversation and offers a softer, more casual spot during dinner parties, while also serving as a relaxed perch for the children. The result is a space that feels elegant yet approachable, layered with pieces that support both connection and ease,' says Heide Hendricks of Hendricks Churchill.

'The dining room table is surrounded by vintage Henning Kjaernulf chairs. Case goods include a floral-covered Swedish mid-century cabinet in the style of Josef Frank and a large Swedish display cabinet from the 1800s. The 1970s sofa was reupholstered in a velvet fabric, and the Lariat pendant lighting by Apparatus elegantly drapes above the table, casting a soft glow. All of these choices create a layered, almost inherited, feel, one that evokes intimacy against the grand backdrop of the cityscape.'

8. Incorporate a Bar Into Your Dining Room

A successful dining room functions for the way you use it. In the case of this design, a home bar has been integrated into the main dining space, creating not just a multi-functional room, but one that is perfectly set up for hosting, gathering, and enjoying.

'Our goal was to make it feel both functional and inviting. We introduced a bespoke bar with concealed cooling drawers and ample storage, paired with open shelving to display curated pieces. The countertop provides a practical surface for setting down trays or dinnerware without taking over the dining table,' says interior designer Katie Harbison.

'Clad entirely in silver travertine, the bar has become a striking design feature that anchors the room. The travertine was the first material we sourced, setting the foundation for the entire palette. Its subtle tones and texture informed the rest of the scheme, with the green veining in the fireplace echoing the soft green accents within the bar.'

9. Make a Statement With Oversized Art

Your dining room is a space for making bold design choices. It's not used as frequently as the living room, and it becomes the focus of gathering, so introducing statement decor will instantly give your scheme that wow factor.

In this dining room designed by Studio Duggan, a single oversized piece of art has been chosen in place of multiple smaller ones. It feels modern, confident, and the art becomes the talking point of the room.

It's a great approach if you have very tall ceilings, too, as it gives the room dimension and fills the space in a thoughtful way.

10. Decorate With Earth Tones For a Calming Atmosphere

In this refined Dublin home, the goal was to create a space that could easily transition between casual and more formal occasions. Earthy tones are a great way to achieve a warm yet transitional room, and it works perfectly in the grand proportions here.

'In the dining room, we wanted to create a space that felt both refined and inviting, a room that could shift effortlessly from everyday family meals to more elegant gatherings. We chose a neutral, nature-led palette to keep the dining room calm and harmonious, allowing the materials and lighting to take center stage,' says Aisling Wilson, founder of Ash Wilson Design.

'Contrast came through texture rather than bold color: warm timber tones, honed marble, soft fabrics, and brushed metal finishes all add depth and richness. This approach keeps the palette serene but still visually dynamic, making the room feel elevated without overpowering its original architectural features.'

11. Merge a Dining Room and Home Library

For many of us, dedicating a whole room to become a dining space is unrealistic. These rooms are no longer formal, saved-for-best rooms, and they need to cater to a long list of needs, from homework stations to pop-up offices. And in this home, the dining room has become a hybrid space, sharing the room with a moody home library set up.

'I wanted this room to serve dual purpose – one, to make the small space feel cozy and comfortable, and two, to give us a space to hold and display our large book collection, for which we had no other home,' explains interior designer Shannon Claire.

'I added these bookshelves to surround the room and the window, making it feel like they'd been here since the house was built. And the bonus is that I can use one bank of bookshelves as a bar, which works so well in a dining room! All in all, the darker color (Card Room Green by Farrow & Ball) and floor-to-ceiling built-ins make the space feel like a warm hug, and look beautiful lit up with candles for a dinner party.'

12. Add Pretty Pattern With Floral Wallpaper

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to add interest and personality to a dining room is with wallpaper. In this San Francisco remodel, designer Melanie Love opted for a floral design with a floral motif. It instantly turns a small square room into an art piece in its own right.

'The dining room's placement at the center of the first floor suits the flow of the house nicely, but limits the views of the outdoors. Given this, we wanted to make it feel visually open via the wallpaper selection. With our client's passion for nature-inspired motifs in mind, we sought a fresh interpretation of chinoiserie for the dining room,' she explains.

'The scale of the trees in the wallpaper perfectly suits the space, and our client loves the harmonious connection between the wallpaper and the shifting outdoor view. Our goal was for the wallpaper to be the room’s focal point, so we paired it with a complementary floral chandelier in a soft antique bronze to emphasize the immersive feel.'

13. Make an Unexpected Feature With an Acrylic Table

A table is always at the heart of a dining room, so choosing something sculptural can really set the tone for your design. It's an approach taken in the dining room of designer Brigitta Spinocchia Freund's London Home, which she describes as 'refined and lets art and collectible furniture pieces shine.'

'I’ve always gravitated toward pieces that are both collectible and completely liveable objects with sculptural presence that don’t feel too precious to use. The Zaha Hadid Liquid Glacial table (David Gill Gallery) is a very good example of this principle. We fell in love with it early on, long before construction was finished,' Brigitta explains.

'It’s otherworldly and refracts light in shifting ripples throughout the day, yet it’s also where my children do their homework. The protective cover has quietly saved the table more times than I can count, which makes me love it even more.'

14. Mis-Match Dining Room Chairs For a Collected Look

Collected interiors have been sought after for a while now, and it's a look that works beautifully in a dining room. Instead of opting for the usual matching set of chairs, introduce a few different styles or designs for a more mismatched look, like in this remodel of a once-bland home.

'The client had a few mismatched chairs, and we really liked going in that direction with how clean and white the house was. So we added a few more around the table for her. It helps to have things feel imperfect and worn in a house that is so clean and white on the walls and cabinets,' says interior designer Jess Cooney.

'The open shelves were part of the fresher, cleaner envelope of the house, and then we layered vintage rugs and furniture over it to give some tension to the design and have it feel more collected. The shelves keep the space feeling open as well, since it was a smaller dining space.'

15. Work With the History of Your Home

In an older home, working with the history of the property when designing your dining room goes a long way. This soft vintage-style dining room perfectly reflects the home it lives in: a 1920s Tudor-style home.

‘The William Morris wallpaper feels cozy and helps make a room that can be underutilized feel like a space you want to spend time,’ says owner and interior designer Heidi Caillier.

Dining room wallpaper ideas aside, touches like displaying china on the wall feel at home here – you can play around with similar crockery or even mirrors. Vintage style furniture will set the scheme off, but if you can buy original, do; it’s more sustainable and, as Heidi says about the table, ‘it’s a really great choice for families with young kids because it can handle a lot of wear and tear.’

16. Use Rugs to Zone an Open Plan Dining Space

In smaller properties, it may seem tricky to add a standalone dining room. To delineate the dining area without a separate room, go the route of ‘broken-plan living rooms’, with either glass doors or, as here, with architecture visually separating the spaces without interrupting the flow of the room and the light.

Even without architecture to do the heavy lifting, simply adding a rug beneath the dining table can create that sense of zoning, as can a pendant light in a different style or finish suspended over the center.

17. Take Cues From Coastal Style For a Laid Back Look

Not every dining space is reserved for hosting lavish dinner parties; for many, it is a family space, where everyone gathers together at meal times to share their stories of the day.

When designing a family dining room, you want to create a laid-back space in which the whole family can feel comfortable. In this room designed by Neptune, white tongue and groove paneling creates a textural backdrop, elongating the height of the room and helping to increase the natural light.

Wooden flooring laid in the same direction as the wall paneling helps to lengthen the room and creates a cohesive look. A simple navy blue and white color scheme with weathered wooden accents channels coastal decor ideas, harkening back to family holidays by the sea.

18. Mix Design Styles For a Personalized Scheme

Chiefly entertaining guests, dining rooms are spaces where you have the chance to really showcase your personality to visitors. Make it unique by pulling together your favorite pieces, regardless of era or style.

In this dining room by interior designer Sarah Stacey, white walls make for a chic backdrop to a monolithic oak table, abstract artwork on the walls, and modern metal chairs. The decor, a candle chandelier with a contemporary twist, a Persian-style rug, and blown glass vases, add interest and dimension.

19. Take Inspiration from Scandi Style For a Modern Approach

For modern dining room ideas, look to Scandinavia for inspiration. Designer Ginny Macdonald looked to northern European design when planning this open-plan kitchen and dining space, including direct inspiration from Noma chef Rene Redzepi’s personal kitchen in Copenhagen.

In the dining room, a light and bright approach sees white walls laced with white oak and teak furniture, and punctuated with black accents in the chairs and Sputnik chandelier. Color is applied deftly and subtly through soft furnishings, including a woven rug.

20. Choose a Round Table For a More Social Dining Room Layout

Different dining table shapes create a different atmosphere. A large rectangular table feels more grand and formal, but if you want a more casual, sociable feel, opt for a round table.

In this scheme, a circular table in the center of the room is surrounded by six chairs. This layout removes the formal head of the table and allows everyone dining to see, hear, and communicate with each other.

21. Keep It Classic with Checkerboard Dining Room Flooring

A chic, black and white checkerboard floor adds impact to a calm, neutral scheme. The monochrome palette combined with warm wooden furniture creates an inviting dining room.

Not only do these classic floor tiles add an effortlessly sophisticated feel to a room, but they are also a practical and fuss-free option for a much-used family space. It's practical, has enduring appeal, and will never go out of style.

22. Ensure Your Dining Room Layout is Functional

To create a pretty scheme, make sure you don't overlook the dining room layout. It's important to have sufficient space around the table, so people can walk around and easily get in and out of their chairs.

‘Think about what you will use the dining room for,’ says Pam Cox, owner of Ham Interiors. ‘If it will be almost entirely dedicated to dining, it’s crucial to leave enough room between the seating and other furniture to allow people to get to and from the table with ease.

'Where space is limited, you may have to sacrifice storage to retain an open feel. Attempting to squeeze in too much could detract from the overall look and function of the space, so consider what is really necessary.’

23. Create a Country Cottage Feel with Patterned Textiles

If you love the charm of a country cottage dining room, you can recreate the look by introducing layered textiles in pretty patterns. Small-scale prints work best, like in this design.

There's a clear color story of warm reds, burnt oranges, and earthy greens. ditsy florals and simplistic botanical prints bring the outside in, perfectly capturing that quaint country cottage look. It makes the dining room feel cozy and inviting.

24. Upholster Seating in Durable Fabrics

Whether you love entertaining or use the dining table as an everyday space, choosing the right upholstery material is key. Especially in family homes or where bench seating is used, durability needs to be considered.

‘We love to use upholstered benches around dining tables, and we are careful to use practical finishes like acrylic performance fabrics or faux leathers to protect against sticky fingers,’ says Emma Pocock, co-founder of Turner Pocock.

‘The feel of upholstered benching is so much more versatile, becoming a place to chat, sit and do schoolwork or linger with a drink after dinner.’ Add extra interest with contrasting seat pads to the backrest, or to those on the dining chairs.

25. Use Light to Soften Sloped Ceilings or Additions

‘When designing a dining space in an addition, I recommend incorporating a skylight into the ceiling paired with solid timber, as opposed to a fully glazed roof,’ advises Emma Sims Hilditch, founder and creative director of Sims Hilditch.

‘This creates a lovely soft light which falls onto the table and seating area, without making the space too hot. If the addition has a view out onto the backyard, then I advise placing the table so that guests can soak up the natural surroundings while they enjoy a delicious meal.'

'In terms of lighting a dining room, why not make a statement with large pendant lighting or a chandelier, drawing the eye upwards and adding drama to the space? You might also consider adding wall lighting to create a cozy and moody atmosphere as the evening draws in and the natural light dies.’

26. Create a Vignette with an Antique Sideboard

It's not unusual to have a lot of empty wall space, so introducing small dining room furniture that sits to one side can add a focal point, as well as space to display decor. 'One of the main furniture pieces I like to include in my dining rooms is a stunning antique sideboard,' says Kristen Scharer of Kristen Scharer Interiors.

'The sideboard itself maximizes the functionality of your dining room by allowing space for a gorgeous dessert or beverage display during large gatherings. It also adds space for seasonal decor to enhance your table space, as well as dining room storage for special occasion dishware, flatware, and table linens. An antique sideboard is a statement piece that can set the tone for the room – offering a feeling of warmth and tradition for your guests,' she adds.

27. Create a Versatile Room with an Extendable Table

It simply wouldn't be a dining room without a table. Instead of opting for something average, make a statement with a large, well-made wooden table. Not only will it look great, but it will last a lot longer than less sturdy alternatives.

'I love really big, long dining tables. They feel so grand,' says Bailey Todd, of White Cliff Studio. A large, beautifully crafted dining table really takes the spotlight in a dining room and offers plenty of space to add dining table decor, so you can get away with a more minimal theme for the rest of the room.

If you're worried a bigger table will look too crowded, or you feel you don't host often enough to get enough use out of it, consider an adjustable table that can cater to different requirements. 'If you don't have the space for a really large dining table, I love our Double Extendable Table. It's simple, and the extension easily folds into itself so you can switch from your everyday table to dinner party mode in a matter of seconds,' Bailey adds.

28. Add Extra Storage with a Hutch

If you're working with a larger dining room or simply have a lot of extra space, introducing a larger piece of furniture against the wall is often a perfect addition. Here, you can display decorative items and artworks, or add additional dining room lighting, as well as benefit from extra storage space.

'If there is room, I always suggest having a sideboard or hutch in your dining room. I absolutely love our flotté sideboard. It comes in a few different sizes and even a tall cabinet to match. This allows for everyday storage, and this particular one has a mix of hidden storage and open storage to display some of your nicer pieces,' says Bailey.

'I find this versatile in not just everyday storage but also for dinner parties as you can use the top to set up a fancy cocktail station so that guests don't have to leave the room for refills,' she adds.

29. Choose a Dining Table That Echoes the Shape of the Room

For a layout that creates an impact and makes the most of the space, pay attention to the shape of a dedicated dining room in your table choice. Especially in long, narrow rooms, choosing a table that works with the proportions feels more balanced and functional.

‘Go for a long, narrow table in a rectangular room to mimic its shape,’ says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. ‘It’s a layout that feels both grand and practical, especially in a space that doubles as a work area.’

30. Work a Small Space

If dining space is limited, it’s important to choose a layout that makes dining comfortable without compromising the space to move around within the home. But there’s a neat solution.

‘For smaller homes or dining areas that feel cramped, try a banquette or dining nook,’ recommends Staci Holt, kitchen and dining room designer for COOPER Design Build.

This style of seating works particularly well in smaller spaces, like in this design, where a bay window provided the perfect spot for an eat-in area. It feels cozy and intentional, and maximizes an otherwise underused space.

31. Hang a Tapestry For Visual Interest

Once used to insulate and decorate in historic houses, tapestries make great dining room wall ideas in modern homes. And it's a dining room wall decor idea that's proving increasingly popular with designers.

'A large tapestry can create a brilliant focal point behind a dining area, while also breaking up the monotony of a wide-reaching blank wall,' says Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors, who created this dining room above. 'Tapestries also help with noise reduction.'

32. Use Wallpaper to Separate a Dining Room From a Kitchen

‘Wallpapers can bring warmth and character to a dining room, adding texture from modern graphic motifs to mid-century styles through to the more traditional damask designs,' advises Patrick O’Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

'Do commit to all four walls when papering – this will give better cohesion to a room scheme. However, in an open plan layout, think about delineating your dining area – papering just one wall adjacent to your dining table to help individualize the different areas. So, the kitchen, living and dining room all feel like distinct spaces in their own right.’

In this dining room, the beautiful green wallpaper has been extended to the ceiling and entryway of the room divider, creating more of a zoned space. Paired with matching curtains in the same print, this green scheme with pink accents creates an inviting area to sit with friends and family.

33. Give Your Dining Room Ceiling the Attention it Deserves

Dining room wallpaper ideas shouldn't be limited to the walls – using a dramatic design for your ceiling wallpaper ideas will make it advanced, creating a more intimate atmosphere. This works particularly well with darker color schemes – think: grey dining room ideas.

'Add surprise and delight by making use of the fifth wall – the ceiling is a perfect opportunity to extend a design, as we have demonstrated with the tempestuous rolling skies of Nuvole,' says Marie Karlsson, creative director at Cole & Son.

If you do wallpaper the ceiling, lighting a dining room well is important – this chandelier above highlights the design above beautifully.

34. Create a Unique Finish on the Walls

There is no denying that whether you are working with an expansive open plan or a small dining space, how you treat your five walls will have an impact on the ambiance of a room. For a particularly elevated finish, it's all in the detail.

Limewash paint is a beautiful addition to spaces that want a cocooned feel. 'Number one for me lately is a lime wash wall finish,' shares Ami McKay, creator of PURE Design. 'It gives any room depth, texture, layers, and visual interest. I am using lime washes and plaster finishes in all of our projects these days.'

35. Lean Into Design Elements That Make Guests Feel Comfortable

Kara Smith, founder of KES Studio, shares the importance of thoughtful detail in the dining room – particularly to impress guests. To elevate the space, it's all about bringing in as much of that sense of cozy, quiet luxury as you possibly can.

'Upholstered dining chairs that make guests comfortable, good color choices to ensure everyone looks their best, and great art are always elements that elevate a dining room,' she says.

Keeping the room balanced in terms of color and design will naturally bring a sense of serenity to the space also. Use rugs, and consider other soft furnishings for an even more cohesive finish.

36. Think About Your Tablescape and Accessories

In all this talk of how to make a dining room look expensive, it's important not to forget the room's raison d'etre! Anyone invited to share a meal at your table won't be thinking about how much things cost. They will, however, be ready to enjoy good company and good food, and will also appreciate the care that's gone into the dining room scheme.

It's when you're entertaining and hosting special family meals that dining table décor ideas take on extra importance, just as much a part of creating a memorable occasion as any furniture, wall, and floor coverings.

Interiors expert Marie-Claire Mrad says, 'Don’t underestimate the power of a meticulously crafted table setup. From exquisite plates and cutlery to a unique centerpiece, it’s a tactile experience that ensures your dining room exudes opulence at every turn, making each meal a luxury affair.'

As for choosing accessories, designer Valentina Piscopo warns: 'Too many times I see clients adorning their dining table with a few candles and a generic glass vase that just doesn’t look right. Instead, make a statement by carefully curating the table display. Extra-large, sculptural, statement vases, filled with fresh wildflowers or branches, if your room has tall ceilings. And add tall plants in empty corners of the room to add richness to the space.’

FAQs

Does a Dining Room Need to be Next to a Kitchen?

One of the major advantages of locating a dining room next to the kitchen is that it’s convenient for both serving food and clearing up after a meal.

‘Placing the dining room adjacent to the kitchen is time-honored. It ensures hot meals are served without delay,’ says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. Meanwhile, there’s minimal distance between dining and dishwashing when cleaning up, he points out.

However, there are no rules to your dining room location, and one located further from your kitchen is not a bad thing. A dining room that’s not right next to the kitchen can have a different atmosphere from one that is, and there are reasons to prefer this.

‘A stand-alone dining area can be curated for ambiance, separate from the bustle of the kitchen,’ says Artem. ‘Though it may demand more footwork, the spatial distinction makes each meal feel like an event.’

How Do You Decorate a Dining Room That Doubles as a Living Room?

Create zones

Furniture can sometimes appear disjointed or marooned in large open-plan spaces, but a little subtle zoning is all it takes to corral some order into the room. ‘Placing a rug under the dining table helps to zone the dining area, grounding the table and giving that part of the room a clear purpose and personality,’ explains Amy Hicks, Lead Designer, Blakes London. ‘The dining room rug also helped soften the acoustics in the room and offered a softness to contrast with the marble table.’

Choose a cohesive color palette

The best living room layout ideas that include a dining space feature clear color connections so that the overall design has a shared aesthetic. It could be as simple as painting the dining room walls the same color as the living room rug, for example.

Introduce curved furniture

Shape-wise, both dining and living room furniture can lean towards blocky, angular silhouettes. When it’s all in the same room, the look can easily become a bit ‘furniture showroom’ and makes it difficult to achieve a smooth ergonomic flow through the space. The solution is to incorporate some curves, which is also a huge interior design trend right now.

Vary the lighting

One of the simplest ways to create separation in an open plan living and dining room is with lighting. Lighting suspended directly over the table signals that this space has a different feel – bonus points if you can have lighting for each zone on a different switch.

What Furniture Do You Put in a Dining Room?

Be fussy with furniture, especially in a compact dining room. Furniture can be a cumbersome business, especially in small rooms so it pays to arrange and buy items correctly.

One great way to make the most of a smaller space is by using multi-function furniture, like an extendable dining table, folding chairs, or chairs that can be neatly tucked under the table when not in use.

Another important pointer is to place large pieces of furniture against walls so the open space in the middle is not broken up. Scale the furniture to fit the size of the room and don’t block walking pathways – if you can see the floor, the room will look larger.

A great tip is to choose a dining table and chairs with open arms and exposed legs, both will keep the appearance of a much more open and free space, allowing light to filter under and around the furniture far easier.

In smaller homes, where space is tight, you might consider extending a worktop to create a breakfast bar or introduce a small circular table for informal dining.

Does Dining Room Furniture Have to Match?

Nowadays, dining room furniture does not have to inherently match. There is beauty in imperfection, after all.

'Traditionally, a dining set would match, but that is not as common today,' says Ami McKay, Creator of PURE Design. 'Today, not being too matchy-matchy is a style choice,' says McKay.

This is not to say that there is no room for overlaps in style, texture, and/or color, but rather, you want to be more intentional with how you match up dining room furniture as part of the bigger picture for your space.

How Can You Make a Dining Room Feel Cozy?

There are so many ways to make a dining room feel cozy, from warm dining room color ideas and ambient dining room lighting ideas to simple updates like dining table decor ideas.

'There are many tricks of the trade that can be used to make a dining room cozy and warm. From architectural features, such as proportions, to material choices, to furniture selections, the options available to create a glamorous and warm environment are limitless,' says New York City-based interior designer Phillip Thomas. 'One of my favorite ways to create a cozy environment is through color.'

Interior designer Susan Sutter agrees, explaining that, 'wall color is critical in setting the feel for the space. We prefer to use warmer paint tones like a dark slate gray or taupe,' she says.

However, for Amy Forshew of Proximity Interior Design, 'wallpaper is always the best option for making a dining room feel cozy. Texture and pattern can wrap a room around you,' she adds.

While dining room wall ideas, such as paint and wallpaper, undoubtedly set the mood for the space, it's important to note that a cozy room often starts with a well-thought-out layout. Too sparse and the room can feel cold and uninviting, and too cluttered and it can make guests feel uneasy, so it's important to think carefully about this if you are embarking on a new dining room design.

How Can You Make a Dining Room Look Bigger?

Decorate with mirrors

Designer Kati Curtis notes how the use of mirrors will help a dining room appear larger. 'When strategically placed and properly designed into a room, mirrors can create an illusion of more space by reflecting light and the room around them.'

'This works by tricking the eye into perceiving more depth in the room, as the reflection extends the line of sight. Moreover, mirrors enhance the brightness of the room by reflecting both natural and artificial light, which further contributes to a feeling of spaciousness.'

Introduce the right furniture

'Cultivate a minimalist ambiance by embracing only the essential furniture and decor items, transforming the space into a clutter-free haven that naturally feels more expansive,' says designer Ginger Curtis.

From subtly transformative designs to the undeniably ergonomic, choose wisely, and it could make all the difference. 'Having a banquette and an off-center table against a window or in the corner allows you to have more space,' shares Ami McKay. 'It’s also super inviting and cozy.'

Think vertically

'Elevate the grandeur by hanging curtains high, gracefully brushing the floor, imparting an elongated allure to the windows, and infusing a touch of refined elegance into the dining experience,' Ginger suggests.

Devon Wegman of Devon Grace Interiors also vouches for this method. 'Additionally, tall features on the walls will add to this effect, such as ceiling-mounted drapes. By keeping drapes clean and minimal, such as ripple fold linen drapes, they don't clutter or crowd the space, but create lines that guide the eye upward, making the room feel even taller,' she says.

How Can You Decorate a Dining Room on a Budget?

Ditch the dining set

Make a small dining room stylish on a budget by choosing not to use a dining table and chair set, recommends Jessica Hubner, founder of Hubner Studio. ‘By combining a dining table and chairs from different suppliers, you can create a more high-end feel,’ she explains.

Shop vintage and second-hand

‘Another great way to do this is by combining vintage pieces with new,’ she adds. ‘For example, you may want to use a new and contemporary style dining table combined with vintage or secondhand dining chairs that can be found at affordable antique markets. This eclectic approach also allows you to bring some more personality into the space.’

Focus on flooring

Don’t neglect the decorative potential of the dining room floor. Even without laying new flooring, color and pattern can be introduced to bring the space to life without a big spend.

As well as patterned rugs, ‘geometric shapes on floor tiles look fabulous and modern and are easy-peasy to create: use bowls, plates, you don’t need anything more over complicated than that,’ says color and paint expert Annie Sloan.

Update lighting

‘Don't be afraid to use “living room” lighting in the dining room: a floor lamp in a corner or a table lamp at the end of a sideboard,’ says Niki Wright, co-founder of Lights & Lamps. These can complement a pendant light above the table, with a floor lamp to light the corner of a dining space.

Utilize small decor

‘Style your dining table to give your dining room an elevated feel with a lovely linen tablecloth that can conceal a tired or dated table,’ says Jessica Hubner. ‘Combine this with some fun colored glassware and place mats.’

Paint furniture

‘Painting the legs of a dining table a different color to the top is a wonderful thing to do if you’ve got a lovely old wooden table which has seen better days,’ suggests Annie Sloan.

A dining room should be just as warm, inviting, and cozy as a living room, just with the additional elements that allow it to function as an eating space. Avoid dated details and dining room cliches if you want to design a timeless scheme.