A small dining room design can be boring unless you creatively mix and match different components. I created a number of mood boards before the final version got an Okay from the client.
Have a peek into my secret lab of possibilities for one small dining room and the same client. And don’t skip the final result before you choose the one you like the most. Then just write me a note:) Merci!
This look is somewhat rustic but yet it is refined. It is quiet and sophisticated without being boring. The wood carving of the console and the table are at the the center stage.
This is a similar look, and yet it feels quite different. Because of the white color for the table, the room is more casual, almost coastal. I can imagine it somewhere on the tropical island or in Florida. The armchairs are upholstered in fabric with ethnic print. The dining chairs are soft green so that they compliment the arm chairs. The dining room is playful and elegant at the same time.
This look is eclectic but it is luxurious and elegant. Beautiful embroidery fabric is on the back of the chairs. I suggested to stencil the walls using the stencil with all over pattern.
Here comes the final one! What do you think?
Here are some details and the process:
Window Curtains
The dining room has different height windows. To make them look similar, I designed the curtains with box pleated valances that are mounted right under the crown molding to take advantage of the high ceilings in the room. Going through hundreds of fabric books, I sourced a vertical fabric pattern for the valance to coordinate with the fabric of the drapery panels. Cotton embroidery valance fabric works with the smooth, silky fabric of the drapery panels. Then I found a perfect banding trim. It is simple and yet has beautiful pattern and texture.
Paint
Paint is a part of the overall design plan. I always select the upholstery fabrics first, and only then the paint color.
Tip: If your goal is to make the room look larger use neutral, beige or light gray paint colors but make a final decision after choosing chairs fabric.
Wall Art
I always try to incorporate original artwork, if possible. Local artists are always eager to create beautiful paintings at reasonable prices. For this small dining room, I sourced a dimensional abstract painting to visually expand the room.
Have a look:
Champagne Nights by Nancy Eckels
The painting was smaller than space demanded, so I had it framed on a floating frame. The black canvas makes it pop while the actual frame matches the color of the wood furniture.
Tip: Try to use dimensional art in a small room to visually expand the space.
Accent Wall
It is a no-brainer that a mirror makes space look larger. But a faceted mirror has a multiplying effect. As it reflects the objects, there is an illusion of multiple surfaces and light sources.
Tip: Use a number of small mirrors instead of a large one for an illusion of a larger space.
Centerpiece
I like to choose a centerpiece of a different color from the main dining room colors. We got lucky to source a perfect flower arrangement from LDF and still stayed within the budget.
Tip: When selecting a centerpiece for a small dining room think about its size, color, and proportion.
Ceiling
I like to use the same paint color for the ceiling as the walls for a small dining room. For a tray ceiling, we used a dimensional faux finish glaze.
Tip: For a small dining room use the same paint color for both, the walls and the ceiling but different finishes: ceiling – flat, walls- mat or eggshell.
P.S. If you are looking to buy any of the Kitchen or Dining Room Tables, the below Guide will hopefully save your time and money. Click on the image to check it out:
What is your dining room challenge?
Please post your questions here below. I’ll be happy to help you!
