If you’re like me, I purchased a dining room table and needed ideas for how to create the center design. Researching pictures in books, magazines, or on the internet, I found many tables with one item (a vase or sculpture) with 2 dried flower stems in the center. None of these ideas created a cohesive and intricate design (more of a minimalistic design) and did not have functionality. Through this process, I have found the recipe to create dining room table decor ideas adjusting to your specific tastes and styles.
1. Choose a table runner (sustainable? cost effective? or both?)
In choosing a table runner you must ask yourself, do I want to switch this out every season or keep the same design? Is there a specific design or material that I am drawn to? How wide do I want the table runner to be? How long? What is my budget? When shopping for a table runner really ponder these questions as it will be the backbone for the process by which you will find your table runner.
Choosing a more sustainable and cost-effective approach would be using the same table runner all year long – and there is nothing wrong with that! Find a neutral color, minimalist pattern or design, and material you really like!
I shopped at TJmaxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, Ross, and Target for weeks on end and I could not find what I was looking for (some of you can probably relate)! I took my search online and found this one on Overstock.com. Details: Off-White Table Runner 13″x72″. The 13″ width is great for adding dinner charger plates, without interfering with the table runner (for the guests positioned on the sides of the dinner table).
2. Key element – include candle holders with unique candle stems!
Why should you add taper candles to your dining room table decor? This sets a mood, brings charm and old-world elements to your table, and creates an atmosphere to conserve energy (who doesn’t want a cheaper electric bill)!
The key to incorporating candle taper holders, as well as taper candles, is staying true to your overall design. I chose brass candle holders (as brass is a cohesive element throughout my home) and decided to go with a more ‘traditional meets modern’ approach to the candle itself.
I purchased my taper candle holders from a thrift store down the street from my home and I purchased my ivory Rope Taper Candles from Cost Plus World Market (the best decision I ever made)!
3. Selecting a centerpiece!
Dining room table decor ideas can range in all sorts of shapes, colors, and sizes! The centerpiece is your main focus so make sure to ask yourself these important questions – do I want to change this out every season or keep it all year long? What will be the centerpiece for my table? A vase or sculptural item? If I have a vase, do I want real or faux flowers? The options are truly endless (in this step) so find out what you’d like and purchase your piece of art!
Tip: Thrift stores can be a great place to find unique items, especially home decor! Keep in mind the height of your centerpiece as it may impede your line of sight from across the table!
4. Add a plant (always in my steps!)
Why add plants to your dining table decor?
For purifying the air in every part of your living space, adding rich and beautiful colors to the already beautiful color palette you have selected, creating a composition in your decor, and incorporating life into your design! Not to mention the cost for adding a plant (including the plant pot) is minimal.
I purchased this plant pot from HomeGoods and a cute-as-a-button, Button fern from Lowes!
5. Season your table with seasonal decor!
Let’s get SEASONAL! If you like home decor, you must love decorating your dining room table to match every season! Here are some dining room table decor ideas:
Use specific objects and smells to represent each season (like these pumpkins – purchased from Target), sentimental pieces or family heirlooms, and/or garlands to wrap around the centerpiece and candle taper holders. Also, find a candle to bring the season to life (pictured in step #4 – purchased from Target)!
Tip: Make sure to add a variety of colors (matching the season) and textures! This exudes the juxtaposition needed for every space in your home!
6. Don’t forget functionality!
It’s nice to have a beautifully executed home with gorgeous decor, but it also needs to be functional! Sit at your table and think about what you may need at mealtime – possibly a napkin holder and drink coasters?
I purchased a brass napkin holder and napkins (from Ikea) and I am still looking for the right drink coasters. When deciding on drink coasters, consider the materials used in your overall design and the shape of your dinner charger plates.
I added a wood tray for a multi-purpose function of breakfast-in-bed or a serving tray when guests are over (I chose wood to add texture, pattern, and a natural element to the table).
Tip: Remember your design style and color palette when choosing these items.
Looking for dining room table decor ideas?
Start with a table runner, add distinctive candle taper holders and candles, select a beautiful centerpiece, include a plant, season your table decor with seasonal decor and make sure your design is centered around function as well!
If you need other ideas for your home, such as bar cart ideas or ways to decorate a guest bathroom, click on my links for inspiration!
Not only does my site cater to home design, but also healthy living choices, travel destinations and travel planning!
I would love to hear from you! Leave a comment!
<3 Brenna
