Weekly Design Inspiration: The (In)formal Dining Room

In many ways, the open-concept home brought us closer with our families; people could cook while engaging with their partners, parents could eat while watching their children play, and fewer walls meant a more casual environment. While we still love the open-concept home, there is an increasing desire to bring back some of the pomp and circumstance that formal homes provided. Today, we’re looking at how to bring back the formal dining room while still keeping it a family-friendly space!

get comfy

Often when we think of a formal dining space, we are reminded of formal, high-back chairs and impeccably polished tables. Formal dining spaces were areas that were seldom used but extremely respected. In order to bring your dining room into the 21st century, don’t be afraid to pick pieces that have a more casual nature to them. Opt for upholstered chairs with some back support, dimmable lights that encourage quality conversations, and a moody paint colour that brings back some of that old-school glamour. 

Source: The Smitten Collective

Source: Home on Harbor

something old, something new

We love the idea of modernizing the dining room while still respecting the old-school roots of what it means to enjoy a meal together. Breakfast nooks and islands are great for quick meals but we want the dining room to be a room that grounds the family. To get that modern, romanticized idea of a dining room, mix new and old! We love what a bit of paneling on the walls can do but are equally obsessed with large-scale wood dining tables that ask you to come as you are. A chandelier medallion paired with a contemporary light fixture oozes modern character. 

Source: Chris Loves Julia

Source: Chris Loves Julia

freshen up

If you’re worried about your space feeling stuffy and stale with art and lights, don’t be afraid to mix in some liveliness! Greenery can do so much for your space; and it doesn’t have to be your grandmother’s roses either! Pick up an arrangement of sage and olive and, when in doubt, go for an oversized look. We try to go for fresh greenery when possible, but silk flowers are low-maintenance if that’s more your speed. 

Source: Studio McGee

Source: Anthology Creative Studio

Design Tip: Give guests opportunities for whimsy. If the conversation ever stagnates it’s great to have conversation starters in the room for guests to remark on whether that means wallpaper on the ceiling or funny tchotchkes on the sideboard!