When it comes to decorating, a tucked-away dining room may be one of the last spaces on your radar. But when given a little love, this at-times-overlooked room can turn into a bustling social hub for hosting, instead of a room you hardly ever use.
No matter what shape, size, or layout you’re working with, our designers have you covered with ways to completely transform a space into your dream dining room—no renovation required.
Meet the Expert
- Soni Mehra is the founder of decor brand Marble Lotus, and principal designer at Marble Lotus Interiors.
- Nina Lichtenstein is the founder and principal home designer of her eponymous firm, Nina Lichtenstein Custom Home Design.
Jewel-Box Wallpaper
In many homes, a formal dining room is reserved for holidays, birthdays, and celebrations only, and according to principal interior designer Soni Mehra, this makes them the perfect room to experiment in using color and pattern.
„Dining rooms are used for special occasions and gatherings, so it only makes sense to make them rich with the patterns and designs of wallpaper,“ Mehra says. „These spaces rarely have furniture up against the walls, as dining tables and chairs tend to be centered, so wallpapering an entire dining room wall will give a very dramatic effect while also being cost-effective and DIY-able.“
When it comes to making a client’s dining room feel truly special, Mehra often opts for an immersive jewel-box effect, using moody colors paired with a bold, floral textile, or landscape-inspired wallpaper to create the ultimate luxe, cozy experience.
Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decor ideas, designer tips, and more!
Statement Lighting
When redecorating a dining room it’s important to focus on the space’s focal point: the area surrounding your dining table and chairs. One way to draw the eye in even more is by utilizing vertical space, and introducing a sculptural lighting element.
„A visually intriguing chandelier can be a great conversation starter for when guests are seated around it—plus, if you have an electrical outlet available, they require no renovation whatsoever,“ Mehra says.
An Oversized Mirror
If the main goal of your dining room makeover is to make the space feel bigger, try investing in a large framed or floor mirror before taking down some walls.
In dining rooms with windows or light-colored walls, a mirror will allow light to reflect and bounce around, and can give the illusion of a room almost twice its actual size; in darker, snug-style spaces, reflected ambient light from lamps and your chandelier will also make a world of a difference.
Cozy Textiles
When bringing your dining room’s color palette to the next level—or adding hues you love without picking up a paintbrush in a rental—our experts say soft furnishings are absolutely key.
„Introduce a patterned rug under your dining table, luxurious curtains, or textured chair cushions for added comfort and visual interest,“ says interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. „Accessories like throw pillows or a colorful table runner can completely transform the feel of the room.“
Ornate Wall Texture
Once you’re happy with the paint or wallpaper adorning your space, Mehra advises taking things to the next level by adding dimension and texture to the room’s borders.
„Adding some wainscoting or trim to the walls surrounding your dining table can be a great way to add unexpected detail, and is an underrated way to re-do the space,“ she shares.
Although you can always call in a professional carpenter to install wall trim, this little upgrade is super DIY-friendly.
Custom Furniture
If you’re trying to decide what to splurge on to achieve your dream dining room, Lichtenstein suggests directing your spend towards the elements your guests will be using most: the furniture. And if budget allows, her top tip is to go bespoke for a space that feels luxurious, yet highly personal.
„Invest in a custom dining table that reflects your style and needs, whether it’s a unique shape, a special wood finish, or a mix of materials,“ she says. „There’s nothing more meaningful and impactful than creating a statement piece that perfectly fits your space and enhances the overall aesthetic.”
Gorgeous Greenery
Leaf + Lolo
As a nature-inspired designer, Lichtenstein swears by bringing the outside in to make each room feel like a grounded, soothing sanctuary. When it comes to a dining room, she does this by adding tall cacti, climbing Swiss cheese plants, and eye-catching centerpieces as the finishing touches.
„Incorporating plants or a small indoor tree will instantly bring life and a touch of nature into your dining space, giving a sense of freshness and a calming effect,“ she says.