9 Dining Room Ideas from Homeowners to Get You Inspired

One of the joys of owning your own home is to be able to decorate it - to turn it into one of those aesthetic homes you see on Pinterest.

And, when it comes to designing the perfect space, real-life inspiration can be the best source of ideas. If you’re working on styling the dining room and need some inspiration, you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ll share some pictures from our real customers who have transformed their spaces into stunning dining areas for meals and conversation.

9 dining room ideas

Set the table by a niche

In a clever design move, this dining table has been strategically placed beside a cut-out niche in this farmhouse-themed home.

@huangyoushijie positions the Seb Extendable Dining Table beside a cut-out niche, maximising space and adding uniqueness to the dining area.

This architectural feature not only adds a touch of uniqueness to the dining room but also serves a functional purpose. The cut-out niche helps to frame the dining area and the bench is used as additional seating at the dining area, as well as when you’re putting on your shoes in the entryway.

This layout choice not only maximises the use of available space, but adds an extra layer of character and charm to the dining room.

Create your very own bar

This is one of the smartest ways we’ve seen someone repurpose one of our furniture pieces - turning the sideboard into a makeshift bar!

The Lily Sideboard is used as a makeshift bar in the dining room thanks to @cozyspaceinterior and @hausonthehorizon’s brilliant idea. Also pictured: The Lily Dining Table.

The dining room features the Lily Sideboard that has been ingeniously repurposed as a bar. With ample storage space and adjustable shelves, it’s no surprise why they decided to go with Lily.

This brilliant design choice not only adds an element of sophistication to the space but also serves as a practical solution for entertaining guests. The sideboard’s surface provides space for mixing drinks and serving snacks, and they even installed floating shelves for additional storage and a space to hang wine glasses.

This dual-purpose utilisation of the sideboard is a prime example of how thoughtful design can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of a space, making it a place to dine as well as socialise.

Decorate with artwork

Adding pieces of artwork is an easy way to transform your dining room. In a display of impeccable design harmony, Jade and Anthony adorned three pieces of artwork that seamlessly complement the overall decor.

The attention to detail that @houseofchais put when selecting the artwork creates a beautifully harmonious space. Pictured: The Vincent Dining Table in Oak.

The three artworks, all framed in matching wood tones as the Vincent Dining Table in Oak, helps to tie the look together. The minimalist and monochromatic aesthetic perfectly mirrors the rest of the dining area's decor, which is predominantly white.

The result is a sense of balance and unity, where every element in the room feels intentionally chosen to work in harmony.

This design choice not only creates a visually stunning and cohesive look but also highlights the meticulous attention to detail in the space. It's a reminder that, in interior design, every element, no matter how small, can contribute to the overall ambiance and beauty of a space.

By a bay window

If you live in a small HDB or condo, designing small spaces can be a challenge. But, there are several ways to make the most out of available space.

In a clever utilisation of space, the team at Length x Depth Interior thoughtfully positioned the dining table against a bay window, transforming it into a cosy and inviting seating area.

@lengthxdepth positions the Vincent Dining Table in Walnut against a bay window, cleverly maximising space.

This design choice not only maximises the functionality and available space of the room but also takes full advantage of the bay window's scenic views and abundant natural light. The team also chose to use the Vincent Dining Table in Walnut to complement the muted Japandi aesthetic they are going for.

This dining room is a beautiful illustration of how strategic placement and design can transform an ordinary dining area into a multifunctional and aesthetic space.

In the kitchen

In a charming nod to the rustic modern farmhouse aesthetic, the dining table takes center stage, quite literally, right in the heart of the kitchen.

The Miles Dining Table and Bench are placed right in the heart of the kitchen.

This design choice not only celebrates the warmth and hospitality of farmhouse-style decor but also fosters a sense of togetherness and casual dining that is the hallmark of this beloved interior design.

The Miles Dining Table, with its sturdy wooden construction and inviting design, becomes the focal point of the kitchen space. Placing it in the middle of the kitchen creates a welcoming atmosphere and encourages a sense of communal cooking and dining.

Out on the patio or backyard

For some, the allure of dining in the open air is simply irresistible. Embracing the joys of outdoor living, Heather and Sarah placed the dining table out on the patio, turning it into an oasis of relaxation and culinary delight.

@oakandorange places the Rio Outdoor Teak Dining Set on the patio.

The dining table, strategically positioned here, offers a perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor ambiance. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the outdoors, dining becomes a tranquil and serene affair.

They’ve also carefully chosen a dining table that’s suitable for outdoors, the Rio Outdoor Teak Dining Set, which is made from Indonesian teak wood.

Recommended read: 8 Most Durable Outdoor Patio Furniture Materials

Another homeowner has chosen to embrace the ultimate outdoor luxury dining. Their dining table is nestled in their backyard by the pool, creating a dining experience that's as refreshing as it is indulgent.

The Rio Outdoor Teak Dining Table Set creates an inviting dining space in the backyard. Picture credits: @vsdinteriors

Here, the backdrop is not just a garden but a shimmering pool that invites you to take a dip before or after your meal. The table, surrounded by comfortable seating, becomes a hub of entertainment, where dining can seamlessly transition into poolside relaxation and social gatherings.

On a rug

One captivating design choice that's been gaining popularity is the placement of a dining table on a rug. This decision not only adds a layer of visual intrigue but also defines the dining area in an open floor plan layout.

@laurenwirkus delineates the Sloane Dining Set with a geometric rug.

Lauren positions the Sloane Dining Set atop a patterned rug. The rug serves as a stylish boundary, delineating the dining space from the rest of the room while adding a touch of cosiness underfoot. The colours of the rug also complement the caramel leather seats of the dining chairs and bench, showing the attention to detail and thoughtful selection of the rug.

The key to success in this design choice lies in the synergy between the rug's pattern, colours, and the dining room's decor. Whether it's a bold geometric pattern, a classic Oriental rug, or a modern abstract design, the rug should harmonise with the dining table, chairs, and other decor elements.

Bring the nature indoors

A great way to infuse your space with freshness and the tranquility of the outdoors (without placing your dining table outside) is to introduce natural elements.

This homeowner has an abundance of potted plants and wooden decor to create a dining room that feels like a serene outdoor oasis.

The Theo Round Dining Table sets the stage for a natural oasis in @ann.aludra’s dining room.

Ann carefully chooses a wooden dining table, the Theo Round Dining Table, alongside matching wooden chairs to help set the tone of the space. She masterfully decorates the room with woven placemats, a rattan-framed mirror, a jute rug, and an abundance of greenery.

The result is a dining room that radiates tranquility and connection with nature. It's a space surrounded by the soothing presence of plants and the warmth of wood. This design approach not only creates visual appeal but also contributes to a sense of well-being and relaxation.

Allow lots of natural light

When it comes to designing your dining room, or any other room in fact, allowing natural sunlight to enter can create an inviting space.

This dining room, bathed in an abundance of natural light, feels like a sunlit sanctuary. Large windows open up the space, allowing sunlight to pour in and bathe every corner in a golden glow.

The Kelsey Marble Dining Table in White Wash reflects the sunlight beautifully. Picture credits: @tableby.j

The choice of a neutral colour palette, wood tones, and marble complements the natural light beautifully. These colours and materials reflect and amplify the sunlight, making the room feel even brighter and more spacious.

By the fireplace

Imagine the joy of savouring a meal in the warm and flickering embrace of a fireplace. In this dining room, the homeowner has crafted a space that marries the pleasures of dining with the comforting ambiance of a roaring fire.

@secretgardenmudgee creates a comforting dining area with the Lily Dining Table by the fireplace.

This arrangement not only brings literal warmth to the dining room but also adds a layer of coziness and charm. Whether it's a casual breakfast or a festive dinner, the proximity to the fireplace makes each dining experience feel like a celebration.

The choice of a wooden dining table, the Lily Dining Table, and earthy decor elements complement the rustic charm of the fireplace. The natural textures and hues create a harmonious blend that resonates with the warmth of the hearth.

These real-life examples of dining rooms show that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to interior design. Your dining room is your canvas waiting for you to get creative with it.

As you embark on your dining room makeover journey, remember that it's not just about following trends; it's about creating a space that reflects your personality, lifestyle, and the moments you want to cherish. So, let these ideas inspire you to unleash your creativity and design a dining room that's uniquely yours!