How to Design an Anything but Boring Dining Room

Picture a dining room and think of some adjectives to describe what comes to mind. Serious, boring, and perhaps stuffy? But why is this the context in which we think of dining rooms? A dining room is a place of gathering, shared laughter, and memories, and should be synonymous with joy. When tackling the design of any room, it should be approached with careful consideration of each layer of the space. Whether this means the ceiling, furniture, color palette, or lighting. Here you will find a compiled list of helpful tips on how to approach the dining room and to ensure that the good design will be discussed at the table. Get ready to get comfy and inspired.

Dress Up The Walls 

While this may seem an obvious starting point, it is often dismissed as “let’s choose a color paint.” Why stop there? There are so many options out there, such as wallpaper, limewash, and murals, which are just the beginning. Beyond that, you can think about the color, texture, and style of said finish. I love a good scenic wallpaper for the dining room.

Photo Credit: Alice Lane Interior Design

Dress Up Isn’t Complete Without Accessorizing! 

Faux florals, candles, drapes, and rugs are like jewelry for your space. No outfit is complete without proper accessories; the same is true for any room. These are a fun way to add visual interest to your space and elevate its aesthetic.

Photo Credit: Architectural Digest

Cheers to Chairs 

What a dramatic difference the choice of chairs makes in the dining room below. Not only do they add a pop of bold color, but the varying chairs make this room far more interesting than if they were all the same. Chairs are available in a multitude of textures, colors, patterns, and shapes. Mix and match as you please for ultimate fun. Now this is a conversation starter.

Photo Credit: Adam Hunter

Let the Table Talk

A table has so much more potential than being a surface on which to place food. It is the center of the conversation, and that can be literal in two senses. The table pictured above complements the aesthetic nicely while also providing a geometric quality that makes the piece unique.

Photo Credit: Greg Natale

Color is Your Friend 

See every surface as a blank canvas. We have a rainbow of colors available at our fingertips that can be applied to any finish. Blue can be used to evoke a sense of serenity, while deep red hues can exude energy and stimulate the mind and body. Don’t shy away from including multiple colors in a dining room.

Photo Credit: Adam Hunter

Light it Up 

Every room needs lighting, so why not have a good time with it? Make it big and flashy or unique and spectacular. Lighting is a great way to make a strong statement and take any room up a notch. Plus it will provide proper ambiance for any future dinner parties.

Photo Credit: Martyn Lawrence Bullard

Integrate Storage Space

On one hand, a buffet or freestanding cabinet can add to the design of a dining room. The integration of these storage furniture pieces allows for a more seamless look. It can be in the form of cabinetry, shelving or a floating buffet, the options are limitless.

Photo Credit: Studio DB

Make it Moody 

There is something to be said about a dark and moody dining room. Nothing is quite as inviting as a cozy dining room setting. Deep dark hues coupled with luxe materials especially when topped off with metallic finishes, set the stage perfectly.

Photo Credit: Greg Natale

Don’t forget to look up 

They don't call it the fifth wall for no reason. Adding your personal touch to the ceiling paves the way for the entire room to look pulled together and cohesive. In the image above, the copper ceiling matches the chairs and has a lacquered finish that reflects the wildlife depicted on the walls. Ceiling details can range from small touches such as medallions above a light fixture to more statement-making decisions, like a pop of color.

Photo Credit: Greg Natale

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born and raised in New York, Shana Beck is an interior designer and writer with a degree from the New York School of Interior Design. Her work focuses on blending design principles with insightful commentary, offering a fresh perspective on trends and innovations in the field. With a passion for writing and a deep understanding of aesthetics, she aims to make complex ideas accessible and engaging, bringing a fun and cool approach to professional content. You can reach her at 845.825.1537 or shanabeck7@yahoo.com