How to Style a Luxury Dining Room

5 minute read time

In the world of interior design, the dining room is more than just a place for meals – it’s a space that brings people together, a setting for conversation and a canvas to express your personal style. Whether you’re curating a space from the ground up or reimagining an existing room, these expert design tips will guide you in creating a dining room that radiates timeless elegance and refinement. 

 

Step 1 - Select the perfect dining table

The dining table stands at the heart of any luxury dining room, commanding attention and setting the tone for the space. When selecting your table, look to high-quality materials; walnut, oak, and marble remain ever-popular, each contributing a sense of permanence and artistry. Walnut, with its deep, warm hues, evokes a sense of sophistication, while marble's veined beauty introduces a subtle drama. 

 

A custom-made table can give your dining room a unique flair. Whether you prefer a traditional rectangular shape or a more modern round or oval design, ensure the size is proportional to your room. A table that’s too small can feel out of place, while one that's too large can be overwhelming. 

Step 2 - Invest in luxury dining chairs

To complement the table, select dining chairs that marry form with function. Upholstered chairs in rich materials like velvet, leather, or linen introduce both comfort and visual allure. The texture and quality of the upholstery are key to creating an elevated experience for both yourself and your guests, ensuring that the room feels as inviting as it is beautiful.

 

For added visual interest, consider mixing chair styles. A set of elegant, upholstered dining chairs can be paired with a few accent pieces in contrasting materials or designs. The balance between differing chair styles creates an intriguing interplay of textures and shapes, adding depth to the room while maintaining a cohesive elegance. 

Interior by Juliette Byrne


Interior by CAM Interiors

Step 3 - Layering textiles for depth and comfort

Textiles are an essential element of any luxury interior, offering both tactile pleasure and visual interest. Start with a refined table runner or placemats crafted from premium materials such as linen, silk, or high-quality cotton. These subtle layers not only protect the table but elevate its presence, adding a soft touch to the more polished surfaces. 

 

To further enhance the comfort and design of your chairs, consider draping a luxurious throw over the back or adding silk or velvet cushions. These additions bring both warmth and texture, creating an atmosphere that beckons guests to linger longer. 

Step 4 - lluminate with statement lighting

Lighting is an essential element in any luxury dining room, creating ambiance and accentuating the room’s finest features. A stunning chandelier above the dining table serves as both a functional light source and a defining design feature. Whether it’s a grand, crystal chandelier or a sleek, modern fixture with metallic accents, the right choice will illuminate the space while adding a layer of refinement. 

 

Incorporate additional lighting through wall sconces or pendant lights. These elements not only complement the chandelier but provide a softer, more intimate glow, enhancing the overall atmosphere and creating an environment perfect for evening entertaining. 

Interior by Hamilford Design

Interior by Residence One


Step 5 - Curate art and mirrors for elegance

Art plays a pivotal role in defining the character of a luxury dining room. Choose pieces that resonate with the room’s design and colour palette, be it a striking modern abstract or a classic landscape painting. A thoughtfully curated art collection imparts personality, sophistication and an air of timelessness to the space. 

Mirrors, too, are an effective addition. A well-placed mirror will beautifully reflect the light, giving a more expansive feel to the space. Whether framed in intricate gold or a minimalist silver, mirrors enhance both the room’s aesthetic and functionality. 

Step 6 - Play with colour and contrast

A rich, sophisticated colour palette is one of the cornerstones of a luxury dining room. Classic neutrals such as ivory, charcoal, or taupe form the perfect backdrop for statement pieces, while jewel tones like emerald or sapphire add opulence and drama. Layering these colours thoughtfully throughout the room, on walls, upholstery, and accessories, creates a harmonious and refined atmosphere. 

Accents in metallic gold, brass, or silver can add a touch of luxe to the overall scheme. A statement piece, such as a bold rug or an art piece in contrasting hues, can provide the ideal splash of colour while maintaining the room’s elegance. 

Step 7 - Carefully chosen accessories and décor

In a luxury dining room, accessories should never overwhelm but instead enhance the space. Select objects that evoke a sense of artistry and sophistication. Crystal vases, sculptural candleholders and delicate bowls can all serve as beautiful, understated accents. 

A curated floral arrangement or a tastefully chosen centrepiece can elevate the dining table, creating a focal point that draws the eye. Candles, too, bring an air of intimacy and warmth to the room, casting a gentle, inviting glow as evening sets in. 

Interior by Juliette Byrne

Step 8 - Consider the flow of the room

While the visual appeal of your dining room is paramount, its functionality should not be overlooked. Ensure that there is ample space around the table for guests to move freely, allowing for both comfort and ease. If the dining room is part of an open-plan space, consider how it integrates with the rest of the home.

 

The design should flow naturally from the living area to the dining room, creating a seamless, cohesive experience throughout. 

Step 9 - Incorporate natural elements

The beauty of nature, brought indoors, adds warmth and tranquillity to any dining room. Consider integrating plants, perhaps a pair of tall, elegant palms or a series of smaller potted plants strategically placed around the room. Their presence brings a sense of serenity, grounding the space while contributing to a luxurious, organic aesthetic. 

 

Materials such as marble, stone and wood are natural choices that add texture and richness to the room. Whether in the furniture or accessories, these materials create a sense of timeless luxury that is both refined and enduring. 

 

Interior by Katie Watkinson

Interior by SGS Design


Styling a luxury dining room is an art, a balance of aesthetics, comfort, and purpose. By focusing on high-quality materials, thoughtful design and impeccable craftsmanship, you can create a lasting space that’s not just for dining, but for creating lasting memories. With these expert tips, your dining room can become a refined sanctuary, where every detail works in harmony to deliver a truly exceptional experience.