Decorating ideas for dining rooms

Relaxing, entertaining, catching up and of course enjoying good food – a dining room is a lot more than just a place to eat. Smart and sleek or comfortable and cosy, whatever your dining room style, we have some decorating ideas to inspire you.

The future is now

The ultra-modern dining room is a simple, light space with clean lines and the occasional splash of electric colour. For this dining room decorating idea, think stylish chrome and leather dining chairs paired with high-gloss lacquered dining tables, pale wood floors and simple, striking décor.

Add a contemporary chrome chandelier and install recessed lights at a low level or underfoot – choose low-energy walk over lights in neon colours for maximum effect. Décor should be minimalist with a striking mirror, contemporary artwork or textured surface as a focal point. For an original table centrepiece, choose an abstract stone sculpture or stylish candlesticks.

Escape to the countryside

The country cottage dining room style is cosy and welcoming: natural wood, a roaring fire and plenty of indoor greenery. A rustic solid oak dining table provides a central focal point; match with leather dining chairs and a solid oak sideboard finished in a clear smooth lacquer.

Emerald is right on trend this year, so why not go green with accessories and furnishings. Add an abundance of plant life with different shades and textures or an indoor herb garden in a planter. An open fire or wood burning stove will add a cosy feel to any country cottage dining room – and your pets will love it!

Golden oldies

Travel back in time with a traditional dining room dressed with stylish new furniture and carefully selected antiques.

Visit antique fairs for statement pieces, for example a large, ornate mirror or picture frame, or an antique sideboard – pair with one of this season’s trends: lace. A dark wood extending dining table with matching black, brown or red leather dining chairs will fit in perfectly with this smart, traditional dining room décor idea.

Source some classic silver cutlery for your place settings and choose a statement piece such as a Tiffany lamp or an antique globe. Red or gold curtains with tasselled tie-backs will add a sumptuous feel to this classic look.

Heart of glass

Glass and mirrors are perfect for smaller dining rooms, bringing a sense of light and calm. For this decorating idea, begin by attaching large mirrors on facing walls, or fix three tall mirrors at close intervals.

Glass dining tables help create an illusion of light and space, especially when paired with cream or white leather dining chairs and pale carpets or flooring.

A contemporary glass chandelier will bounce light around the room, or hang crystals or glass chimes. Bring a small garden water feature inside as a dining table-top centrepiece – a stainless steel sphere will reflect even more light. Display glassware and decanters on glass shelving or glass-top side tables then add a few coloured glass ornaments for good measure.

Exotic adventures

Take a rich and colourful journey to the east with an Indian themed dining room. For this dining room decorating idea, start with a sturdy hand-crafted sheesham wood dining table, finished in a clear satin smooth lacquer, with matching leather dining chairs.

Look to Indian spices and Holi festival colours for inspiration – the bolder, the better. Brass accessories will add a warm glow to the room and a stone Buddha will bring a sense of calm and well being. Dress the room with flickering candles and framed vintage maps as a finishing touch.