There's something brilliantly old-fashioned about a formal dining room, conjuring up nostalgic images of Downton-esque soirées and family feasts. Yet it can also be quite intimidating; if you’re going to the trouble of inviting guests over for a formal dinner, the pressure is on to create a dining room that is fit for the occasion.
In any formal dining room, less is more. Stick to the basics: a good dining set, some tasteful art, and essential ingredients such as cutlery, glassware and crockery. With minimal fuss, you’ll have a dining room that is ready for any sort of gathering. Just follow our simple tips…
1) Create the illusion of space with an extendable dining table
We don’t all have space for an extra-large table, so cheat by investing in an extendable design. When your dining room is out of action or you're enjoying a romantic meal for two, keep it neat, small and compact to make the most of the extra space in the room. Then, when you have guests, simply extend it to accommodate a few extra seats, allowing everyone to enjoy the cosy atmosphere.
Canterbury
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2) Invest in statement seating
Whilst the table is the focal point of your dining room, chairs play an equally important role and should not be overlooked. Once covered by tablecloths, loaded with platters of food and surrounded by chatter, tables can blend in somewhat. Chairs, on the other hand, are constantly under scrutiny, especially when sat upon for multiple courses and extended lengths of time. Of course, they need to be comfortable and suited to the room’s décor, but why not turn them into a design feature in their own right?
Add a retro vibe to your dining room with funky Z-shaped chairs or rounded seats. Alternatively, bring colour to a set of plain wooden chairs with bright cushions or by painting them the same shade as your dining room walls. Opt for high-backed designs for an instant touch of vintage glamour, or mix and match a few different styles for a chic, eclectic look.
3) Keep a few extra chairs on standby
You never know when a small gathering is going to turn into a full-blown dinner party, so it’s worth keeping a couple of extra dining chairs on standby. Arrange them against the wall when not in use and keep them clear of clutter, ensuring they add to the formal look of the room. Alternatively, invest in a stackable design like the Arlo, which is a practical option for compact storage.
4) Experiment with art
Art doesn’t have to be expensive, nor does it have to be conventional. Instead of a statement painting, why not hang an elegant framed mirror on the wall? An antiqued or distressed mirror can introduce vintage character while helping the room feel lighter and more spacious.
If your artwork is on the small side, turn it into a feature by framing three or four small paintings or prints and hanging them together.
5) Make your lighting matter
The lighting in your dining room should be soft and ambient. You want to create an atmosphere that feels relaxed and inviting while showing off your dining room at its best.
There’s a huge range of lighting available, so it’s worth shopping around until you find the right piece. Uplighting against the walls creates a romantic ambience, while carefully positioned floor lamps allow you to control the brightness of the room. Low-hanging pendant lights can also make a striking feature above the table, bringing a dramatic and contemporary touch to the setting.
6) Don’t forget the finishing touches
In a formal dining room, you can get away with stylishly mismatched furniture or an eclectic mix of art and mirrors. When it comes to the finishing touches, however, it pays to give the details a little extra thought.
Invest in a good set of matching cutlery and keep it separate from your everyday collection. The same goes for your glassware. Whether you choose simple designs, cut glass or coloured stems, a coordinated collection will help the table feel considered. When you’re not entertaining, attractive glassware can also be displayed in a glazed cabinet or on open shelving.
Finally, add a centrepiece to the middle of the table for an extra flourish. Flowers, fruit or something handmade can tie the setting together and bring a clear sense of occasion to any dinner party.
Check out our Table Décor Pinterest board for more elegant ideas and inspiration.
