A formal dining set can feel imposing and stuffy at times. However, with some creative styling, you can give your formal dining area a relaxed, inviting vibe. Here are 7 unstuffy ways to style your formal dining set.
Mix Classic and Contemporary
Blending classic elements like a chandelier or formal table with contemporary chairs, wall art or lighting creates an eclectic look. The juxtaposition of styles makes the space feel more relaxed and modern. Try pairing antique dining chairs with a sleek glass table or hanging an ornate chandelier over a rustic wood table. This unexpected combination makes for an unstuffy dining room.
Incorporate Natural Textures and Elements
Natural textures instantly make a space feel cozy and casual. Incorporate elements like stone, wood, wicker, greenery and linen. For example, add a stone pedestal vase with flowers as a centerpiece or hang woven pendant lights over the table. Use linen napkins and placemats rather than stiff, formal ones. Adding an easy-going texture like jute or seagrass to formal chairs takes the stuffiness out.
Play with Color
Color has a big impact on the vibe of a room. Sticking to neutrals can make a formal dining set feel stark and cold. Inject color through accessories like throw pillows, candles, centerpieces and artwork. Try pairing a dark wood table with brightly colored modern chairs for a playful look. Use different colored glasses and dinnerware so the table feels fun and eclectic.
Rethink the Lighting
Proper overhead dining room lighting can feel imposing. Take a less formal approach with lighting like pendant lamps, sconces and natural light. Candles also create a relaxed ambience. Position an antique chandelier over the table, then add modern pendant lights over the corners for a mixed lighting look. Throw open the curtains and add a mirror to reflect more natural light.
Style the Tablescape Creatively
A tablescape includes all the decorative elements placed on the dining table. Have fun with your tablescape by playing with height, color and texture. Grab vases, candlesticks and decorative items from around the home to style the table in a casual way. Instead of one centerpiece, create mini vignettes interspersed with candles and greenery. Use natural elements like fruit, seashells or rose petals as part of your table decor.
Use an Informal Place Setting
The traditional formal place setting has many rules – but you can break them! Style your place settings in a more casual, asymmetrical way. Simply use a plate, salad plate, napkin and utensils without worrying about the proper placement. Mix up your dinnerware by using different plates and glasses at each setting. Skip the salad fork and spoon to keep it simple. An informal place setting creates a laid-back tablescape.
Add Unexpected Decor Touches
Think beyond typical dining room accents and decor to liven up the space. Hang a colorful tapestry or macrame artwork on the wall or display unique objets d’art. Use an antique trunk or flea market find as a buffet. Repurpose old crates, barrels or boxes as unconventional plinths for statues or vases. The key is not holding back – embrace your personal style fully!
In summary, there are many creative ways to style your formal dining set and room to feel inviting, not stuffy. From mixing up your decor to adding natural elements to breaking the traditional place setting rules – make the space uniquely you. Don’t be afraid to display your personality. With the right blend of classic and casual, you can achieve a beautifully unstuffy dining space perfect for relaxing meals with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions About Styling a Formal Dining Set
What are some easy ways to make a formal dining set feel more casual?
- Switch out the traditional tablecloth for a simple linen or cotton one in a neutral tone.
- Style the place settings asymmetrically instead of traditionally.
- Use casual dinnerware like stoneware instead of fine china.
- Incorporate elements from nature like fruit, flowers or seashells.
- Add glassware in fun colors and patterns to the place settings.
How do you style a formal dining table for everyday use?
- Opt for a table runner instead of a full tablecloth for easy cleaning.
- Use ceramic vases and decorative boxes to hold napkins, silverware, etc.
- Keep fresh flowers on the table to soften the look.
- Style place settings casually with only needed dinnerware.
- Use cotton napkins in a fun color or print instead of formal ones.
What types of lighting work well for an unstuffy dining room?
- Pendant lights over the table or corner of the room provide soft, ambient lighting.
- Sconces on the walls give off cozy task lighting.
- Natural light from large windows or a skylight keeps the room bright.
- Candles of different shapes, sizes and heights add warmth.
- An antique chandelier provides classic charm balanced with other lighting.
What are some simple ways to upgrade old dining chairs?
- Add new seat cushion covers in a modern print or vibrant color.
- Upholster the chairs in a casual fabric like linen, jute or corduroy.
- Paint old wooden chairs in a trendy color to modernize them.
- Replace worn seat cushions with new foam inserts.
- Sand and re-stain the chairs to refresh the wood color.
How do you decorate a dining room wall in an informal way?
- Hang a colorful gallery wall with framed prints and photos.
- Add sconces for ambient lighting and display decorative plates or artwork between them.
- Use washi tape to create a playful geometric wall pattern.
- Install floating shelves to display vases, plants and other fun dining accessories.
- Mount a large antique mirror to reflect light and give the illusion of a bigger space.
What are some good dining room colors for a relaxed vibe?
- Light blue or green for a soft, airy atmosphere.
- Neutral beige or gray for a classic laid-back look.
- Sage green to bring the outdoors in.
- Warm shades like peach, yellow or terracotta for coziness.
- Navy blue for a sophisticated yet casual feel.
- Rich jewel tones like emerald or ruby to make a statement.
