Joanna Gaines revives this century-old decor technique to totally transform a dining room – and we're sold
Where 'modern form meets French design' – the designer's latest mini-reni reminds us just how powerful pattern can be


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'From an outdated dining room to a lively gathering space with plenty of whimsy,' Joanna shared alongside before and after footage on Instagram.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.'
A post shared by Joanna Stevens Gaines (@joannagaines)
A photo posted by on
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.
Evergreen Peel & Stick Floral Wallpaper – $1.04/sq. ft on Wayfair
A celebration of nature's fresh foliage and blooms, this Stenciled Floral peel-and-stick wallpaper creates a feeling of serenity in any space –but, of course, our dining room is the natural starting point.
A post shared by Joanna Stevens Gaines (@joannagaines)
A photo posted by on
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.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
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.
Mustard hues always look cozy and welcoming, so they're a smart choice for serveware. The softly fluted design of the Wheat Jolie collection makes for a winning, rustic style. We're tempted to get the bowls too.

Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens, where she leads the celebrity/ news team. She has a history in interior design, travel, and news journalism, having lived and worked in New York, Paris, and, currently, London. Megan has bylines in Livingetc, The Telegraph, and IRK Magazine, and has interviewed the likes of Drew Barrymore, Ayesha Curry, Michelle Keegan, and Tan France, among others. She lives in a London apartment with her antique typewriter and an eclectic espresso cup collection, and dreams of a Kelly Wearstler-designed home.
-
The one stylish upgrade that'll make your home's entryway the talk of the block
Because first impressions matter
-
HexClad cookware is on sale - Gordon Ramsay is a fan, but does it live up to the hype?
I tested the range for three months, comparing it to my trusted favorites – and the short answer is yes, but with some small caveats
-
Joanna Gaines's living space defines the latest 'California Casual' trend – and it's changing how we decorate
The designer has mastered west coastal style in her Texas home – and Californian experts say we should follow her cue
-
Joanna and Chip Gaines' castle reno is done and it's up for auction – see inside
Joanna Gaines catalogued her and Chip's journey renovating the 100-year old castle in Texas – and now it's ready to be sold
-
Joanna Gaines' tiny home reno offers 3 fail-safe techniques that allow small space dwellers to dream big
Joanna Gaines has created a dream cozy yet spacious-feeling modern cottage that uses the property's natural features to enhance the space
-
Trend forecasters say Joanna Gaines' 'brave' kitchen cabinet color will dominate our homes in 2025
The Fixer Upper has created a rustic farmhouse-style kitchen with an (unintentional) futuristic twist – take a look inside
-
It's a game changer: Joanna Gaines' unconventional tile trick makes this tiny room feel instantly taller
Joanna Gaines has used tile in a surprising space: a dining nook. This, she says makes the space feel welcoming and taller. We discover how this trick works
-
We're over-excited: Joanna Gaines reveals how her new Mini Renis show delivers 'fast and furious', budget-smart makeovers
The designer is setting her sights on smaller projects, using 'paint, trim, tile and furniture' to transform a space instantly
-
Trust us – you'll want to copy Gwyneth Paltrow's 'anti-fashion' house colors for guaranteed curb appeal
The actress shared a glimpse of her home's (perfectly balanced) monochromatic exterior – and designers aren't disappointed
-
Jennifer Aniston has a mirror in her shower, and honestly, we're wondering why this isn't the norm
Actress Jennifer Aniston has shared a post that reveals she has a shower in her bathroom. We investigate the look and ask whether it will catch on