Traditionally, the dining room was a place only used for formal occasions, closed off from the rest of the house. These days, dining rooms are often part of an open kitchen and living room plan, or may serve multiple purposes such as being a study area or a home office. Modern dining room decor reflects this increased usage of the space, while also giving the room a contemporary feeling.
Contemporary Brights
The contemporary dining room palette has evolved from what used to be a place for dark and formal colors. Modern palettes may feature a cool Caribbean blue on the walls, with light wood furniture to keep things sunny-looking. This look works best with minimal textiles. Replace the large tablecloth and heavy drapes with a table runner and cafe curtains in a translucent fabric, with the curtain rod placed halfway down the window frame to allow views of the yard. Keep the look sharp with a silver cone-shaped chandelier over the table. Minimalist, flexible storage such as open shelves or cubes work beautifully in this environment.
Green Dining Rooms
Going green has extended to dining . The core of this design philosophy is to scavenge, recycle, repurpose and reuse everything possible. The look has a shabby chic charm, with mismatched china and chairs. A floor runner in bamboo or other natural fiber is ideal. Hang a floating shelf and display a line of vintage bottles on it, or use old glass canisters to hold everything from baking flour to a bouquet of flowers. Bring nature into the picture with hanging plants instead of curtains in the windows, or plant an herb garden in a window box. Big bowls of fruit and bouquets of wildflowers or grasses add to the green vibe.
Retro Modern
The retro modern dining room does not take itself too seriously. The look may include a 1950s yellow Formica table with red vinyl chairs. Or it may integrate some landmark designs in the history of modern furniture, such as chairs in the style of Charles Eames. Molded plywood, curving chair and table supports and geometric accents all add a modern edge. This look works well with bright white walls and an accent wall in a cool green. You can also stack artwork vertically up the wall, framing it in bold black gallery frames.
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