The holidays are nearly upon us, and now is the time to reassess a crucial space within a home that often serves as the heart of engagement: the dining room. Learn how to reimagine a dining room with the flavors of fall that are exquisite and sleek, and avoid the uninspired kitsch many of us have come to know.
Play with Shapes
The utilization of sculpture and shapes is an excellent way to mix things up in any room. In the instance of a dining room, think about incorporating circular accessories, such as gilt or wooden platters that can lean into a beautiful minimal aesthetic, often lacking in the fall season, that are also quite functional. Also consider leveraging the power of geometric shapes in patterns; however, be sure that their incorporation does not come off as busy and detract from what should be a space for relaxation.
Subtle (Yet Impactful) Lighting
It is hard to appreciate the glare of bright white lighting, regardless of how it’s delivered (chandelier, recessed, etc.). The fall season is a time to think through how lighting is utilized in a dining room to determine if it’s time to tone it down and embrace warmer tones. If you’re ready to make the investment, consider purchasing a long pendant to be placed overhead of the table. Subtle is the name of the game, but you can still have fun by opting for unique textures or a variety of metals.
Be Brave with Color
Too often, fall is associated with an array of oranges, browns and reds, and while these shades are a natural complement to the season, they can be limiting. Allow yourself to delve into rich, deep hues, such as navy or plum, which can be inserted as accents to existing design, or can be embraced for a monochromatic approach so that these shades lead the way (think walls). Neutrals are always welcome and can help offset deep shades that could potentially overwhelm a dining space. They can also be utilized well into spring.
Hints of Gold
In general, gold has the capacity to deliver warmth to any room, and it can be especially valuable in dining rooms in the fall season. Hints of gold can be easily integrated through gilt mirrors, in lighting design, even in chairs at the table (especially if part of a more minimalist look). Other metals can also have the same impact, such as brass, but nickel may be a bit more challenging when trying to establish a sense of warmth.
Get Sumptuous
A feeling of coziness is synonymous with the fall season and should also be found in the modern dining room. While it can be challenging, determine how you can incorporate fuzzy throws and pillows into surrounding décor, such as in corner chairs. A soft and textured rug beneath a dining table can also establish a rich and cozy sense throughout the room, as long as it doesn’t detract from the overall aesthetic. Finding ways to add soft textures is also valuable in other rooms in a home that are typically a bit more austere.
Embrace What’s Natural
To many, the idea of warmth comes in the form of yellow lighting and certain color palettes; however, the use of natural materials such as wood and stone have the same capability. Not only do these materials bring a level of comfort but they also infuse a dining room with a sense of solidity, of foundation. This rootedness aligns with the fall season, especially when enjoyed during Thanksgiving meals. Luckily, natural materials can be found in many forms, whether it be in chairs (e.g., rattan), as sculptural forms (e.g., natural stone), in shelving (e.g., wood) and more.
Sustainable Design
To elevate your dining room, especially in fall, look to sustainable materials that loved ones will appreciate and enjoy in overall aesthetics. Recyclable and biodegradable décor, such as table linens and glass items, can easily be infused into overall design that can be as muted or as bold as preferred. Don’t be afraid to show your support for the environment.
There’s no doubt that the holidays can be extremely stressful, and so spending time finding ways to refresh your dining room can be daunting. However, take it piece by piece – there’s no need to dive into a complete transformation. Many of these elements are classic, or can support classic styles, so a slow investment is also possible.
