5 Ways to Spice Up Your Dining Room Decor

Making your space a little more special around the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful or temporary! We love adding a little flare every so often to zest up a space in the house, and this month we’re all about the dining room. Hosting seasonal gatherings and making memories with friends and family is our favorite part of this time of the year! Below are a few ways we like to make the dining room feel extra special towards the end of the year. P.S You can keep all of this around moving into the New Year!

Vase of olive tree branches

No. 1 Bold Branches

If you are wanting a unique centerpiece a vase full of branches is such an easy way to get the look. These Fresh Olive Tree Branches from Terrain are a great option if you are wanting to add something a little different this year. Place your branch arrangement in the center of the table, or at the end of a buffet or credenza if you are wanting to ensure good conversation during a dinner party. A big statement like this can really elevate your overall finished look and it is so easy to execute!

Image: Terrain

 
Modern coastal kitchen with layered lighitng

No. 2 Layered Lighting

Having a variety of lighting options in the dining space is another way to really elevate the overall look and experience of the space. Setting your table near a large window will give nice natural light for daytime dining. Your second lighting feature can be overhead like a pendant light that will act as a beautiful centerpiece. This light should be the one that gives off the strongest glow for darker dining hours. Your third lighting feature can be something soft and subtle for more relaxed dining, that will immediately elevate the entire ambiance of the space.

 
Coastal kitchen with a tonal rug and green chairs

No. 3 Tonal Rug

If you don’t have a designated dining room and your table sits in a larger kitchen or living space, a great way to ground and section off the area is by using a rug. This will allow the dining table to look more grounded and will give the illusion of a more defined border, away from the rest of the furniture. Use a tonal rug like the one above, to not distract from the rest of your furniture. This lighter rug contrasts nicely with the darker wood and adds a nice balance overall. Textured rugs are great in the dining room, as they hide stains or spills well. Just be sure to slip a mat underneath so that your rug isn’t sliding around and the chairs feel more stable.

 
Rattan bar cart

No. 4 Bar Cart Corner

Designate a corner of the room to house a smaller table or cart for drinks like wine or liquor. You can also use a bar cart to hold pretty glassware that hides away in the cabinet, not getting the attention it deserves. A bar cart is a fun, compact way to make a statement and add more personality to the room. Make it functional for your space by using it to store extra candles and dishes as mentioned, or lean into the concept and use it as a spot to keep your favorite wine stocked up!

Image: West Elm

 
Minimal dining room with a bright abstract painting

No. 5 Pop of Color

Color goes a long way, so even adding a small amount of it like this painting above, feels dramatic because of the stark contrast with the rest of the space. When you are choosing how much color to add, or where to add it, note what else is happening in the room. If you have more bright whites, that will contrast well with warmer colors. If your room is darker, lighten it up with shades and tones that are cooler.

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Seasonal Updates: Coastal Holidays