How to Decorate a Dining Room

Just like we’ve explored making our living rooms cosy and crafting boho tablescapes in my previous blogs, let’s turn our attention to the dining room—a room that holds a special place in our hearts. 

For many of us, it’s not just where we share meals and pleasantries; it’s the heart of our home, where we laugh, learn, and create precious memories. Beyond dining, it’s a versatile space where families bond, work, and play. 

In this blog, I’ll provide valuable guidance on selecting the perfect dining table and chairs to complement your space. Join me as we infuse your dining room with style, functionality, and perhaps even a touch of macrame magic, creating a warm, inviting hub for all your heartwarming moments!

Choosing the location

Choosing the perfect spot for your dining room is all about creating a cozy and inviting space that suits your lifestyle. Let’s chat about a few things to consider beyond just practicality! First off, think about the view and lighting. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee with sunlight streaming in or having dinner under the soft glow of a pendant light. These little details can really set the mood for your meals and make them extra special.

Next, think how close you want your dining room to be to the kitchen. Sure, convenience matters, but it’s also about finding that sweet spot. Having a separate dining room can feel like your own private sanctuary, perfect for those intimate dinners or entertaining guests. On the other hand, going for an open-plan kitchen-diner brings a modern vibe and makes it super easy to chat while you cook.

Ultimately, it’s all about what works best for you and your family. Whether you’re into the classic charm of a dedicated dining room or the laid-back vibes of an open-plan setup, go with what feels right and reflects your unique style. After all, the most important thing is creating a space where you can enjoy good food and even better company!

Measure and Plan

Before diving into furniture shopping, it’s essential to get the lay of the land, quite literally! Measuring your dining space is key to finding furniture that fits just right and creates a harmonious atmosphere.

Grab your tape measure and take some precise measurements of your dining area. Note down the dimensions of the room, including any alcoves, doorways, or architectural features that might impact furniture placement.

Once you’ve got your measurements sorted, it’s time to get creative! I always suggest sketching out a rough layout on a piece of paper. Visualising where you want your dining table to sit, along with other furniture pieces like chairs, cabinets, or sideboards, can give you a clearer picture of how everything will come together.

Remember, it’s not just about fitting furniture into the space; it’s also about creating a comfortable and functional layout that encourages conversation and easy movement. So take your time, play around with different arrangements, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect setup that suits your style and enhances your dining experience.

Know your Price Budget!

When it comes to decorating your dining room, having a clear idea of your ideal price point is like having a trusty compass guiding you through the shopping process. Setting a budget helps you stay on track and ensures that you make savvy choices without breaking the bank.

Start by determining how much you’re comfortable spending on each piece of furniture or decor item. Consider factors like quality, durability, and style when setting your budget. While it’s tempting to splurge on certain items, remember that there are plenty of stylish and budget-friendly options out there that can elevate your space without draining your wallet.

Choose your Style

Establishing a distinct style for your dining room sets the tone for the entire space and makes it easier to curate furniture and decor that complement each other harmoniously. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek lines of modern minimalism, the warmth of rustic charm, or the timeless elegance of traditional design, finding your interior design style is the first step towards creating a dining room that truly feels like home.

Take some time to explore different interior design styles and discover which ones resonate with you the most. From Scandinavian simplicity to eclectic bohemian vibes, there’s a plethora of styles to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal.

If you’re not sure where to start, check out my blog on interior design styles for inspiration. You’ll find a treasure trove of ideas, tips, and insights to help you identify your personal style and bring your vision to life

Colour Palette

Your choice of colours can significantly influence the ambiance and overall aesthetic of your dining room, so it’s essential to give careful thought to your colour palette.

Consider the style you’re aiming for when selecting your colours. For example, if you’re leaning towards a modern, minimalist look, you might opt for a clean and crisp palette of neutral tones like white, grey, or beige, accented with pops of bold colours for added visual interest.

On the other hand, if you’re going for a rustic or farmhouse-inspired vibe, earthy tones like warm browns, soft greens, and muted blues can help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

For those drawn to a more glamorous or luxe aesthetic, rich jewel tones like deep emerald, sapphire, or ruby can add a touch of drama and sophistication to your dining space.

Don’t forget to consider the size and layout of your dining room when choosing your colours. Lighter hues can help small spaces feel more open and airy, while darker shades can add depth and coziness to larger rooms.

Choosing the Dining table

When it comes to choosing the perfect dining table, it’s not just about finding a piece that looks great; it’s about finding one that suits your lifestyle and meets your practical needs. Take a moment to consider how you’ll be using the room and who will be using it.

Will your dining room double as a home office during the day? Will your kids be doing their homework or getting creative with arts and crafts? Thinking about these factors can help you select a table that’s not only stylish but also functional and versatile.

As for styles, the options are endless! Are you drawn to the timeless charm of a classic farmhouse table paired with traditional wooden chairs? Or perhaps you prefer something more modern and sleek, like a glass or metal table that brings an industrial vibe to your space. Let your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your dining room guide your choice.

And don’t forget about those extending leaves! They’re a lifesaver when you have extra guests over for dinner or during special occasions like Christmas. There’s something nostalgic about unfolding the extra table and bringing out the mismatched chairs, just like at my mum’s house!

When it comes to shape, consider the size and layout of your room. A round or oval table can soften the look of a small space and encourage conversation, while a square or rectangular table can make a bold statement in a larger room and provide ample seating.

Choosing the Chairs

When it comes to selecting dining chairs, the options are as diverse as your personal style! While many places offer convenient dining table and chair bundles, exploring alternative options can add character and flair to your dining space.

If you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication and luxury, consider velvet chairs in a complementary colour to your decor. Velvet brings a plush texture and a sense of elegance, making every meal feel like a special occasion.

For those with a penchant for industrial chic, metal chairs can make a bold statement in your dining room. With their sleek lines and rugged appeal, metal chairs add a modern edge and can effortlessly complement a range of interior styles.

Thinking outside the box? Why not opt for a bench instead of traditional chairs? A bench not only saves space but also encourages cozy gatherings and casual dining experiences. Plus, it adds a touch of rustic charm to your dining area.

If you’re a fan of contemporary design, consider chairs with modern abstract shapes or those inspired by iconic G-Plan designs. These statement pieces can infuse your dining room with a sense of creativity and individuality, elevating the overall aesthetic of the space.

Extra Furniture

If you have the luxury of ample space in your dining room, incorporating extra furniture can elevate its charm and functionality to the next level. For those who love to entertain, consider adding a small bar or drinks cabinet to your setup.

A bar or drinks cabinet serves as a stylish and practical solution for storing your favourite spirits, liquors, and glassware. Not only does it keep your essentials neatly organised and easily accessible, but it also adds a touch of sophistication and hospitality to your dining area.

Choose a bar or drinks cabinet that complements the style of your dining room furniture and decor. Whether you opt for a sleek and modern design or a vintage-inspired piece with intricate details, make sure it blends seamlessly with the overall aesthetic of the space.

Art

Adding artwork to your dining room walls can elevate the ambiance and create a captivating focal point for your space. Whether you’re drawn to bold statement pieces or subtle, understated artwork, choosing the right pieces can enhance the overall aesthetics of your dining area.

For inspiration and tips on selecting the perfect artwork for your dining room, be sure to check out my blog on how to decorate a living room wall. Many of the principles discussed in that blog can be applied to your dining room as well.

Consider factors such as the size of your dining room, the style of your furniture and decor, and your personal taste when choosing artwork

Tableware and Centrepiece

Setting the table with stylish tableware and a captivating centrepiece can instantly elevate the dining experience and create a welcoming atmosphere for your guests. If you’re looking for inspiration, my blog on boho tablescapes is a great resource to explore creative ideas and tips.

One timeless and effortlessly elegant option for a centrepiece is a simple vase of fresh flowers. Not only do flowers add a pop of colour and natural beauty to the table, but they also infuse the room with a delightful fragrance, enhancing the dining experience for everyone.

In addition to flowers, you can also get creative with other centrepiece ideas, such as decorative candles, succulents, or even a beautifully crafted fruit bowl. The key is to choose something that reflects your personal style and sets the tone for the meal you’re about to enjoy.

As for tableware, selecting the right dishes, glassware, and cutlery can enhance the visual appeal of your table setting. Mix and match different textures, colours, and patterns to create a dynamic and inviting tablescape that delights the senses.

Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party or a casual family gathering, taking the time to set the table with care and attention to detail shows your guests that you value their company and want to make their dining experience truly special. So go ahead, have fun experimenting with different tableware and centrepiece

Placemats

Investing in quality placemats not only protects your table from scratches and spills but also adds a stylish touch to your dining setup. Placemats come in a wide range of styles, from rustic round hessian ones to sleek and minimalist leather designs, offering endless possibilities to suit your preferences and complement your existing decor.

Choosing the right placemats is all about finding ones that not only serve a practical purpose but also enhance the visual appeal of your table setting. Consider the colour scheme, texture, and overall aesthetic of your dining room when selecting placemats to ensure they seamlessly integrate with your existing style.

Statement Plants

Incorporating plants into your dining room decor not only adds a refreshing touch of nature but also contributes to a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Big foliage plants like banana plants or Swiss cheese plants are excellent choices for adding lush greenery and visual interest to your space.

These large plants not only make a statement but also help purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, creating a healthier indoor environment for you and your guests to enjoy.

Consider placing a tall banana plant in a corner of your dining room to add height and drama to the space, or position a Swiss cheese plant near a window to take advantage of natural light and create a cozy nook for dining.

In addition to their air-purifying benefits, plants also have a calming effect on the mind and can help reduce stress and anxiety. Incorporating greenery into your dining room decor can create a tranquil and inviting ambiance that encourages relaxation and conversation.

FAQs

What is considered a Dining Room? 

A dining room is considered to be a dedicated area where people come together to enjoy meals. In contemporary settings, it is commonly located adjacent to the kitchen for ease of serving, although in historical contexts, it might have been situated on an entirely separate floor.

Is it old fashioned to have a dining room?

Having a dining room isn’t old-fashioned; it’s a matter of personal preference and lifestyle. While open-plan living has gained popularity, dining rooms offer a dedicated space for family meals, gatherings, and can showcase your style with modern or classic decor.

How important is a dining room?

A dining room holds significance in a home. It serves as a dedicated space for shared meals, fostering connections among family and friends. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for creative decor expression, making it an essential part of many households.