Did you know that a dining room is one of the most used rooms in homes today? It serves to host activities, family get-togethers and it's also the culminating space when guests come over - especially during holiday celebrations! Because of this, creating a dynamic, vibrant space is key when designing or even updating a dining room. Below we list out 10 of our favorite style tips for dining rooms that you can easily and affordably put in place in your home today!
1. Mix and match dining chairs to add dimension - Mismatched dining chairs bring character and interest to the dining room. This is a simple way of adding color without having to spend a ton of money. If you like to take risks, try bold colors like blue or red, or if you're more of a neutral fan try mixing colors like seen in the above picture. This is our Ashley Furniture Tripton Dining Set (ASHD530). These Upholstered Dining Chairs are seen in Linen and Graphite colors which mix together perfectly and would match a number of dining room styles, like contemporary or rustic.
2. Change Up or Add an Area Rug - The Area Rug serves to pull together colors and anchor your dining room. Area Rugs can be added to both hardwood floors or even wall-to-wall carpet floors. The rug should be large enough to fit your table and chairs. When pulling out the dining chairs for use, the chair legs shouldn't fall off the rug. To determine the size of rug you'll need, the best method is to measure your dining room table and add at least four feet to each measurement.
3. Tablecloths - A budget-friendly and easy option to spice up your dining room is simply to add a tablecloth. For Spring and Summer décor, we recommend using a light, cotton print.
4. Seasonal Centerpieces - Add a dramatic centerpiece that guests will stop and stare at like a terrarium (a very popular trend) or lanterns with decorative candles based on the season. Silk flowers are also a favorite way of brightening up a dining room.
5. Arrange the Table - The latest trend has been to keep the table set up and ready to go when family or friends arrive, and this also serves to show off your best china and silverware. When dressing up the table, add napkins and a few choice décor pieces like a bowl that match your dining chairs or tie in a color from your window treatment or area rug. By keeping the table set your dining room will look less cold and lonely and it'll also free up some storage space in cabinets and curios!
6. Set the Mood With New Lightning - Dimmer switches can add a dramatic style to your dining room and can easily accent your new tablecloth and centerpiece.
7. Dress Up Your Windows - Switching out the window treatments in your dining room can be a quick and easy way to change your décor. Select a bright and airy window treatment that ties together all the colors in your dining room. Don't be afraid to mix and match the patterns in your area rug and window treatments. Our style tip is to keep the colors consistent. For example, if you're area rug has a diamond pattern with grays and yellows, you can always choose a floral shade or curtains for your windows in that same color scheme to tie it all together.
8. Wall Décor - For accessorizing your dining room, choose a dramatic piece of art which will help bring up conversation or it can help establish a focal point. Also consider adding a mirror which can make the room look lighter and larger.
9. Get Crafty - If you have plain metal or wooden chairs, try crafting cushions for them in a bold or neutral color that will tie your dining room together. You can easily attach the cushions using double-sided Velcro. Or your could purchase new cushions for your chairs which will save time, but may be slightly more expensive. You can also craft centerpieces or accent items like purchasing Styrofoam balls from a discount home store or craft store and wrapping them in assorted fabrics using a glue gun.
10. Be Thrifty - Thrift stores are great places to find affordable dishes and silverware to accent your dining table. Or go outside and bring the nature in with you. In winter, pinecones make great decorations and in the Spring you can bring in small tree branches to arrange a nest perfect for your Easter eggs!
