Ah, the dining room…a place for relaxing meals with family and friends. Or, maybe it’s your laundry-folding meets craft projects landing zone? No matter how you use your dining room today, there will probably come a time when you’d love your dining room to look sleek and sophisticated for guests. If you’re looking to update and enhance your space, here are my top tips for decorating a dining room:

1. Install a Gorgeous Chandelier

An essential element of any dining room design is the chandelier. If you’re working with a builder basic light-fixture, or (gasp!) a simple boob light, you’re missing out on a huge design opportunity!

Not only do chandeliers add major ambiance, but they are a fantastic way to amp up the look of your room, and showcase your design style and personality.

dining room design tips chandelier

Source: Lumens

2. Go Big with Your Centerpiece

If you’re stuck with a flush ceiling light or recessed lighting, and a designer light fixture isn’t in the cards, your next best option is to create a stunning centerpiece that can become the focal point of your dining room.

A large vase with tall green stems or colorful florals is all it takes to create a centerpiece that will capture attention and totally elevate the look of the room.

dining room centerpiece

Source: HGTV

3. Add an Accent Wall

A dining room is the perfect place to add some drama! One easy way to add wow factor is to paint an accent wall or install wallpaper behind your buffet or sideboard. 

Today’s temporary wallpaper options are perfect for renters, or anyone who’s been traumatized by removing wallpaper in the past (my hand goes up). Two of my favorite places to shop for removable wallpaper are Spoonflower and Tempaper.

Architectural features, like wainscoting, chair rails, grid walls, and even crown moulding are another great way to elevate the look of your dining room, and may even add value to your home!

dining room accent wall

Image Source: Wayfair

4. Mix & Match Your Chairs

Dining chairs do not need to match the color or finish of your table. Rather, you can introduce some variety with a new color or texture, which will result in a look that says, “a designer lives here!”

Also, consider using a completely different style for your armchairs (a.k.a end chairs) and side chairs, or add a bench for a more casual look.

dining room accent wall with moulding

Image Source: Modsy

5. Place a Rug Under the Table

An area rug under your table can help the room feel more sophisticated and pulled together, while also adding pattern, texture and color to your dining room.

Now, I know some of you with spaghetti-dropping young kids in your life are thinking, “no way is a rug going under my table!” And, I hear you…

Just know that when you’re ready, a rug will really improve the look of your dining room. Consider Flor carpet tiles for a “replaceable” and durable option.

area rug carpet squares under dining table

Image Source: Flor

6. Bring the Outdoors In!

I say it all the time, but every room in your home needs 2-3 plants. Adding natural elements, like plants and florals, to your dining room will help the space feel more cohesive and cozy.

See that empty corner of the room? It’s just begging for a large potted plant or petite tree. You can also fill a vase or glass hurricane with faux green stems or florals, or add a small plant on your sideboard/buffet.

Need a great source for faux trees? Check out Nearly Natural for realistic-looking faux plants!

plant in dining room corner

Image Source: Studio McGee

By following these six pro tips for decorating a dining room, you’ll soon have a space that you’re excited to show off to friends and family. Just a few updates and enhancements is all it takes to have a great looking dining room!

If you have a room in your home that needs some serious design help, my Room Design Recipe course is perfect for you. Not only will you get tons more tips like these, but you’ll learn the steps to be able to decorate any room in your home like a pro!

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