Depending on what you do with it, your dining room can be one of the most useful and enjoyable spaces in your home. If the idea of that surprises you, then you’re probably stuck on the image of a formal dining room that gives off the impression you’re only supposed to be there on holidays or when eating a proper meal.
When you implement a casual style in your dining space, you’re much more likely to want to spend time in it on a regular day-to-day basis!
Here are a few interior design tips to help you get that relaxed and inviting feel:
Brighten it up.
Light and airy colors make your space feel more open and casual, whereas darker, deeper shades have a heavier and more elegant effect. A simple way to soften your color scheme is to refinish darker wood tones with warmer, more welcoming ones—think farmhouse style with yellow or even light grey undertones. If your walls are dark, paint them something neutral or go a little bolder with a pastel hue or patterned wallpaper.
Dress down the table.
A fully set dining room table creates a very formal atmosphere. Leaving it open and accessible makes the room more approachable and functional. Until you’re serving food, ditch the placemats and china settings and opt for one simple centerpiece instead. A seasonal floral arrangement or decorative bowl is all you need to add the right homey touch.
Use modern accessories.
A lot of what makes a traditional dining room feel formal is in the ornate details and antique accents (oriental rugs, china cabinets, crystal chandeliers, etc.). By modernizing these accessories, you turn it into a friendlier, more casual space. Try decorating with some vibrant botanicals, light linen drapery, and a simple chandelier or table fixtures for lighting. Add a larger contemporary piece, such as a dining bench or a bar cart, to complete your casual, contemporary look.
If you need help taking your dining room from formal and stuffy to casual and lively, the interior design team at Sherwood Studios can help. Our designers will work with you closely to achieve the vision you have for your dining room, whether it’s sophisticated, casual, or something in between.
Give us a call at 248-855-1600 to speak with a team member about your project!
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