How to design a dining room to suit all kinds of occasions — not just formal dinners

Wondering how to design a dining room that will result in a space that fulfils a range of different activities and occasions? The dining room ideas you opt for need to take into account all kinds of factors.

"The dining room is one of the most sociable rooms in the house, so the way you style it is important," explains Melissa Denham, interior design expert at Hammonds Furniture. "There are many elements to consider, such as table and chairs, wall colours, decoration and more, so it can often be hard to combine all of your ideas."

Rarely are dining rooms just used for eating meals these days and, more often than not, they also double up as home offices, hobby rooms or a place to store the things you can't find space for elsewhere.

With that in mind, our guide is here to take you through all the elements you need to consider in order for your dining room to be a success.

Melissa Denham

Melissa has almost two decades of experience designing and delivering interior projects. Her clients have been varied, from large retailers to independent businesses or those who want vision in creating their dream space.

How to design a dining room that is open plan

The stand-alone dining room has seen something of a decline in recent years, with an increasing number of people seeking a more relaxed approach to meals through kitchen diner ideas.

"As an architectural practice, we see so many requests come in for open plan kitchen dining spaces – almost 70-80% of enquires for that matter," says architect Zak Gilby of DeVis Architecture Ltd. "It's a trend that has been around for years and doesn't seem like it's going anywhere."

So if you want an open plan kitchen diner, what tips for success does Zak have to offer?

"In open plan spaces, the same considerations apply as to individual dining rooms, but the big one is how to make the open plan space feel cohesive and proportionate in size," explains Zak. "You can say goodbye to any independent dining themes as it works best when the space is united by one design style."

Zak Gilby

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Zak Gilby is managing director and co-founder of DeVis Architecture. By trade he is an architectural technologist with 5+ years in the industry. DeVis Architecture work on small-medium scale, residential projects across London and the South of England, and have expertise on all things home extensions, new builds, interior design and sustainability.

Start with the dining table

In any dining room, there is one main piece of furniture that is non-negotiable – the dining table. It makes sense, therefore, to start here.

"The dining table should be the star of the room, ideally centred for balance and accessibility," explains Marta Balazs, founder and interior designer at Embee Interiors.

The size and style of dining table you choose will obviously need to be chosen in accordance with both the scale of your room as well as the maximum number of people you hope to seat in the space at any one time, just as when choosing kitchen island ideas.

"Choose a table shape that fits your space – a round table for a smaller room, or a rectangular one for longer, narrow spaces," suggests Marta Balazs.

"Round tables are ideal for conversation, with everyone around the table an equal distance away," advises Melissa Denham. "They are great if your main intention is to host your friends and family in small groups.

“However, if you plan to host larger gatherings, a long table might be best for you," continues Melissa. "This allows you to fit more people around the table and make the most of your space.”

You might also like to consider opting for a table that offers a little flexibility in its size. "Choosing an extendable table that you can collapse and push to the side when not in use can be a great idea," says Zak Gilby.

Marta Balazs

Marta is a London-based interior designer helping homeowners create functional, timeless and calming spaces that inspire a sense of well-being with a touch of Scandinavian style.

Aim for a layout that feels relaxed and easy

Just as with kitchen layout ideas, the way in which you arrange your dining room can really help when it comes to giving it a warm and welcoming feel, but you also need to take into account the size of the space and be careful not to overcrowd it.

"I usually aim to leave around 80cm of space around the dining table for comfortable movement," says Marta Balazs. "Pay attention to the flow of foot traffic, particularly in open plan spaces, where the dining area might bridge the kitchen and living room.

"Not only, but particularly in dining rooms, less is often more," continues Marta. "Try to avoid overcrowding with excess furniture and stick to essentials: a table, chairs and a sideboard or storage unit if space allows."

Include storage space to keep the room organised

It is very wise to incorporate one or two items of furniture meant for storage in the dining room, whether that is to house cutlery or crockery, or as a place to stow away home working equipment.

"For rooms with the space, a sideboard or credenza can add storage and display options without overwhelming the layout," advises Marta Balazs. "I often suggest floating shelves or narrow display cases for a lighter look in smaller rooms."

If you are worried that including sideboards and cupboards will make the room feel cramped, consider a few built-in storage ideas instead.

“Fitted dining room furniture is not only practical, but it can also be a stunning addition to your dining room space," says Melissa Denham. "Entertain your family and friends in style by keeping your best glassware and crockery close by in a cabinet. Plus, if you have some special pieces, highlight them behind a glass cabinet door.

“If partying is your speciality, then why not add a mini bar into your dining room?" continues Melissa. "By having your drinks on hand, you’ll keep your guests happy and your kitchen mess-free.”

A great lighting scheme is a must

Lighting ideas for dining rooms need to be designed really carefully if you want to ensure that the space can be used for a wide range of occasions – what works for an intimate dinner party could look all wrong at a family brunch.

"Combine spotlights with a central pendant above the table for a classic and timeless space," says Zak Gilby. "Wall lights are great for highlighting art or display cabinets too."

"For a modern approach, an alcove ceiling with hidden LEDs provides ambient lighting which is great for evening entertaining."

The type of light you use over your dining table is, arguably, the most important factor when it comes to ensuring the space feels well-lit for its intended purpose.

"Highlight your table and chairs by hanging a perfectly placed light in the middle of your space," says Melissa Denham. "Work to the existing style of your room and choose a light shade that suits.

“If your home has a modern and contemporary feel, make a statement with a bold pendant light. You could pick out an accent colour within a wallpaper you have, or even pick a new colour to add to your colour scheme – the choice is yours," continues Melissa.

“Alternatively, if you prefer a more classic look, then a chandelier is a stunning option," says Melissa. "The size of the chandelier you choose depends on how high your ceiling is and how much space you have to use. If you have high ceilings, then go big! Get a chandelier that will fill your room and catch the eye of your guests. Or, if you’re lacking space, a small chandelier will still give you elegance, style and class.”

"Combining overhead lighting with wall sconces or floor lamps in the corners can help add depth to the room," adds Marta Balazs. "Dimmable options are perfect for adjusting brightness from casual dinners to more formal gatherings."

Choose practical yet stylish flooring

In some rooms, comfort is key when it comes to types of flooring, while in others, a practical finish is the most important thing – in the dining room both should be given equal status.

Choose flooring that won't stain should food or drink get dropped on them but that add a sense of warmth and are easy to clean and maintain – engineered wood is perfect.

"A timeless engineered wood flooring design such as plank or herringbone can complement a dining space perfectly," agrees Zak Gilby. "Also, it's easy to clean should any spillages occur."

If you are keen to include something softer underfoot, consider a washable rug, placed beneath the table for guests to nestle their toes into while they dine.

Get your colour scheme spot on for cosy meal times

As with any room in your home, the colour scheme you choose needs to be one that you love and that suits the size and orientation of the room, taking into account how much natural light it receives. This is the same for both kitchen wall colour ideas as it is for dining rooms.

That said, there are a few handy pointers to consider when it comes to the shades that tend to work well in the dining room.

"A neutral base for walls allows for more flexibility," says Marta Balazs. "Warm whites, soft warm greys or earthy tones can create a calming atmosphere.

"Use accent colours for chairs, table linens, a durable (perhaps washable) rug, or artwork to add personality or a quirky pattern clash to these spaces.," continues Marta. "For open-plan dining rooms, it’s especially important to connect the area’s palette with adjoining spaces.

"Incorporating natural textures, such as wood and woven materials, softens the space and adds interest without overwhelming the senses."

That said, if you are really keen for this to be an intimate and bold space where your personality shines through, don't shy away from using deep, rich shades which can stimulate the senses, such as burgundy, forest green, navy and aubergine.

FAQs

What height should a light be over a dining table?

A single statement light or row of pendants usually works really well over a dining table, not only from a practical perspective, but also to create a sense of warmth and sociability. However, it is important to get the height of any lights suspended over the table right if you don't want them to get in the way, just as when lighting a kitchen island.

"I recommend hanging the light about 65-80cm (depending on the fixture's design and shape) above the table to avoid obstructing views while creating a cosy, inviting feel," advises Marta Balazs.

Where is the best location for a dining room?

If you are renovating, building an extension or starting from scratch, you may well be wondering where the best spot in the house will be for a dining room.

Think practically here. You really want the room to be close to the kitchen in order to make transporting food between the two spaces easy – at the very least ensure that there is a clear and, preferably, step-free route.

You also want to avoid locating the dining room close to any noisier areas of the house, such as a utility room, where the washing machine might be spinning away, or a playroom.

Unsure on whether a separate dining room is right for you? Take a look at our guide to open plan kitchens to help you decide.