Decorating & Design

June 28, 2015

How To Update A Traditional Dining Room

Dining rooms are often the most formal parts of our homes, which means they tend to be the spaces that most need a little shaking up. But that doesn’t mean shelling out on a brand-new dining set or other big-ticket changes. Instead, here are four easy, inexpensive ways to modernize a traditional dining room that make a big impact.

1. Layer Your Linens
Adding multiple runners to the table, either across one another or on top of a tablecloth, lends a playful boho vibe. This is also an inexpensive and interesting way to add colours and pattern to a room.

2. Swap Out Your Seating
Create visual interest by adding a 5 piece dining room set with few modern chairs into the mix, in a bright white or a bold hue. This is another way to bring colour into an all-wood set, and an inexpensive way to make a trendy statement.

3. Give Your Chandelier A Modern Update
A traditional chandelier with tiny shades can look stuffy and outdated, especially paired with a traditional dining set. Simply removing the shades and leaving the bulbs exposed is a super modern alternative – and it’s free!

4. Ditch The Rug
Consider rolling up your rug and storing it, or using it in another room — bare floors feel more casual and relaxed. If bare floors aren’t your style, try placing a colourful or graphic runner parallel to your dining set for a modern asymmetrical look, as seen above.

Author: Jennifer Koper & Marina Stamatakos
Photographer:

Alex Lukey

Products:

White chairs, Elte; light, Pottery Barn.

Source:

House & Home April 2015 issue

Designer:

Virginia Johnson