Many people consider formal dining rooms stuffy and out-of-step with contemporary living. These days, dining rooms range from formal ones used only on special occasions to flex spaces that can also be used for homework. Dining rooms have become one of the most sought-after property features. If your home has a dining room, it shouldn’t be designed as an afterthought.

When it comes to ideas on decorating dining rooms, look for design features that ensure your interiors will stand the test of time. One way to do that is to choose dining room lighting fixtures that bring a style of their own to the room.

Modern Dining Room Ideas for Gatherings

From paint to wallpaper, lighting to furniture, and home decor such as accessories like wall art and rugs, there are a plethora of ways to create a dining room that suits your mood, home, or lifestyle. Stylish and functional dining rooms are ideal for gatherings of all types, including memorable family meals and hosting dinner guests, as well as serving as a place for studying, reading, or a workspace.

Aerin Cristol 33 Inch 17 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co.

If your dining room is small, a round table keeps circulation flowing and reduces unwelcome contact with sharp corners. It also lets you fit in more people. White walls are paired with warm flooring in this design to create a relaxing dining room. The Aerin Cristol 33 Inch 17 Light Chandelier by Visual Comfort and Co. adds midcentury modern flair, and the chairs and wall art add color, completing the convivial vibe.

Nula 48 Inch 14 Light Linear Suspension Light by Hinkley Lighting

The Nula 48 Inch 14 Light Linear Suspension Light by Hinkley Lighting over the dining table of this light-filled room adds a sculptural element while preserving the room’s airy feel. The pairing of a shell white exterior with a gleaming gold interior creates a dramatic effect.

What Else Can I Put in a Dining Room?

Of course, a dining room is more than a table and chairs. Rugs, artwork, and lighting work together to set the scene. Lighting is an essential feature in any room, and in the dining room, it provides brightness for all the many activities that take place within it. Adding color with paint or bright curtains, centerpieces, vases, rugs, and decorative items can personalize the space. However, over-accessorizing can make the room feel cluttered.

Paige 33 Inch 9 Light Chandelier by Mitzi

Mixing banquette seating with casual rattan chairs, this light and bright breakfast nook is pulled together with coordinating cushions and colorful window dressing. The Paige 33 Inch 9 Light Chandelier by Mitzi keeps the focus on the room’s bright patterns and colors and the expansive views of the outdoors.

Orbital 28 Inch Large Pendant by Varaluz

While choosing a dining room rug that fits neatly under the furniture can be tempting, this nearly wall-to-wall area rug makes a case for boldly going bigger. It anchors the table and sets the stylish tone in this semi-casual dining room. The Orbital 28 Inch Large Pendant by Varaluz fits right in with its gold dust finish, textured center hub, and a galaxy of crystals.

Raef 36 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Troy Lighting

Simplicity meets sophistication in the Raef 36 Inch 6 Light Chandelier by Troy Lighting. Highlighting the simple lines of the sleek dining table and warm walnut wood tones, it offers a stunning contrast to the incredible view and beautiful artwork. Potted plants bring in just the right touch of organic green.

How Can I Make My Dining Room Look More Luxurious?

Elevating your lighting with stunning dining room chandeliers is one of the easiest ways to make the room look more luxurious. A sparkling crystal chandelier adds a high-end component to the room and becomes its focal point. Look for lighting with quality materials such as crystal, glass, or metal for a bit of glam.

Tiffany 42 Inch 8 Light Chandelier by Arteriors Home

Wallpaper is a quick and easy way to add impact to the dining room. This ombré wallpaper offers sophisticated vibes echoed by the Tiffany 42 Inch 8 Light Chandelier by Arteriors Home. Frosted seedy glass discs blend whimsy with a modern feel, creating a gorgeous wind chime design. The blackened iron frame adds a hint of industrialism and anchors the look.

Aalto 53 Inch 12 Light LED Linear Suspension Light by Hammerton Studio

The geometric blown glass shades of the Aalto 53 Inch 12 Light LED Linear Suspension Light by Hammerton Studio reference classical and industrial design in this chic, moody dining room. The pale gray walls and floor-to-ceiling drapes add coziness and offer privacy, especially during evening dinner parties or if the dining room can be seen from the street.

Tilda 5 Light Mini Chandelier by Arteriors Home

Black and white color palettes add instant drama and sophistication to any room, and this breakfast nook has it in spades. The bold black and white ceiling and black upper cabinets are perfectly complemented by the black Tilda 5 Light Mini Chandelier by Arteriors Home against the white walls. The multi-tiered chandelier features wooden dowels on curved and pliable iron arms.