Making a classy dining room is all about choosing the right decor, furniture, and accessories to create an elegant space for entertaining and family meals. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to consider to design a sophisticated dining room that suits your personal style. From choosing the perfect lighting and tableware to decorating walls, we’ve got you covered with tips from interior designers on how to create a refined space you’ll love hosting in.
A dining room is one of the most important entertaining areas in your home, so investing time into designing a beautiful one pays off when you have guests over for dinner parties or holidays. Follow this advice to learn how to make your dining space feel polished, upscale and timeless.
Design a Floor Plan
The first step to designing your dream dining room is planning out the layout. Measure the space and sketch out where you want the table, sideboard, chairs and other furniture to go. Some key factors to keep in mind for your floor plan include:
– Make sure there is enough room around the dining table and chairs for people to move comfortably. Allow at least 36-42 inches around the perimeter.
– Focal points like a statement light fixture, buffet table or china cabinet should have breathing room around them.
– If your dining room is narrow, an oval or rectangular table can fit better than a square one.
– Incorporate functional zones like a bar cart or built-ins for storage.
Once you’ve sketched out a basic layout, consider the flow into adjoining rooms. The dining space should transition smoothly from entryways and the kitchen. Use your floor plan to play around with different arrangements before purchasing furniture.
Select a Formal Dining Table
The most important element in a formal dining room is the table itself. This substantial piece of furniture sets the tone for the rest of the decor. A classy dining table has these characteristics:
– Made from high-quality solid wood like mahogany or walnut. Avoid laminates.
– Traditional silhouettes like pedestal or epoxy legs have the most presence.
– Round tables promote conversation but oval and rectangular work well too.
– Seats 8-10 people comfortably for dinner parties. Expandable tables are useful.
– Matching durable dining chairs with elegant lines (no armrests).
Wood tables with beautiful grain bring warmth into the space and age gracefully. A stately silhouette like a Trestle base makes it the focal point. Place your dining table on an area rug to define the space.
Select Complementary Dining Chairs
Dining chairs with clean lines contribute to the room’s sophisticated feel. Look for:
– Leather, velvet or linen upholstery in a neutral color like beige or gray
– Straight or gently curved back
– Legs that match the table’s style
– Cushioned seat for comfort
– No armrests for easier movement between table and chairs
Ideally, the chairs match the table but it’s not a must – just aim for a cohesive style. Set one armchair at each end of the table to create a head seat.
Style the Walls and Windows
Wall decor defines the aesthetic in your elegant dining room. You can keep it simple with:
– Crown molding and panel wainscoting with neutral paint above
– Picture ledges to display vases and art
– Full-length curtains framing the window in a luxurious fabric like velvet
– A statement mirror above a buffet or console table
For a bold accent wall, use wallpaper with a chinoiserie, floral or geometric pattern. Add a contemporary crystal chandelier for drama and ambience. The wall treatments, window and lighting should all coordinate.
Select a Rug
An area rug under the dining table pulls the whole look together. It should:
– Be large enough for all chair legs to fit on top
– Contrast the wood tone – like a Persian carpet with red hues
– Match the color palette in curtains, upholstery and accessories
– Be made of durable, easy-clean fibers like wool
A bold pattern emphasizes the dining space while an oriental design adds classic elegance. Layer the rug over carpet or hardwood floors. All furnishings should sit atop it.
Add Storage & Serving Pieces
Storage and serving furniture help maximize the functionality of your dining room:
– Buffets or cabinets to store dishware, linens and serveware
– Glass-door cabinets for displaying china collections
– Wine fridge or bar cart that can be moved as needed
– Console table behind head chair for flowers and candles
– Sideboard or credenza for spare seating when not entertaining
Built-in cabinets keep serving essentials accessible but tidy. Aim for furnishings in wood tones matching the table with simple lines and plenty of storage space.
Select Dining Room Lighting
Proper lighting sets the ambience for refined entertaining. Combine:
– **Chandelier** – Crystal or modern metal over the central table
– **Pendant lights** – Stylish fixtures above a sideboard or drinks station
– **Sconces** – Mounted on side walls for ambient light during meals
– **Recessed lights** – Soft overhead lighting on a dimmer switch
Lighting adds drama and makes the dining space feel warm and welcoming in the evenings when entertaining. Dimmers allow you to control the brightness as needed.
| Lighting Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chandelier | Focal glow over table |
| Pendant lights | Task lighting over bar area |
| Sconces | Ambient lighting on walls |
| Recessed lights | Soft overhead lighting |
accessorize with China, Glassware & Linens
The decorative accents in your elegant dining room tie everything together:
– **China** – Invest in timeless fine china with simple patterns like stripes or solids. Mix plates and bowls for eclectic place settings.
– **Glassware** – Lead crystal stemware, tumblers and decanters sparkle on the table and bar cart.
– **Linens** – Ironed tablecloths, napkins, runner in cotton, linen or lace fabrics.
– **Centerpiece** – Elegant floral arrangement or candelabra.
– **Flatware** – Stainless steel cutlery with classic scroll or simple lines.
Dress the dining table properly to elevate your next dinner party. Use china, glassware and linens to create a refined tablescape. Add subtle fragrance with candles and fresh flowers.
Conclusion
Creating a classy, elegant dining room requires carefully curating the furnishings, decor and accessories. Start with the table and chairs as the foundation. Add storage for function and visual interest with the buffet. Light the space effectively with a statement fixture and accent lighting. Finally, dress the table with high-end china, stemware and linens. The end result is a sophisticated space for memorable entertaining and family meals. Use quality materials and timeless, simple silhouettes for a polished look. With the right dining furniture, lighting and accents your next dinner party is sure to impress.
