You're not alone if you have a small dining room. Many of us face limited space, but that doesn't have to be synonymous with saying you can't make it feel open, airy and inviting. The right tricks can make your dining room appear far larger than it is. I have compiled some of the smartest and easiest ways to do this, and the best part? You will not need to break the bank or hire a professional designer. Let's get into these tips that'll help you transform your dining room.
1. Use Mirrors to Reflect Light
Mirrors are perhaps one of the easiest and simplest ways to create an open feeling in a room. When placed just right, a mirror can reflect light so that a space feels brighter, more airy, and open.I would suggest the following: a large mirror against a window wall. In this way, it reflects natural light throughout the room, creating an illusion of depth. In case you don't have a window, you can still use Anthropologie Mirrors to reflect artificial light from a chandelier or wall sconces. You can add some extra decorative touches by choosing a mirror with an elegant frame that fits in with your dining room's aesthetic.
2. Select Lighter Hues
What colour is employed in the space to a significant degree determines that space. The use of light colours like white, soft gray or pastel color contributes toward welcoming a space to be eaten in as this is what tends to make dining rooms appear open and airy. Dark colours feel warm, but at times that warm feeling translates to feeling "crammed into.". Paint your walls and ceiling in the same light shade to create a seamless look. If you’re not ready to commit to all-white walls, try a light accent wall or pair light walls with neutral furniture. Adding pops of color through décor like cushions or vases can keep things lively without overwhelming the space.
3. Choose Furniture with Clean Lines
Bulky furniture is very easy to overdo in a small dining room. Instead, opt for pieces with clean lines and minimalist design. Chairs and tables with slim legs or open frames create the illusion of more floor space. For example, a pedestal dining table gives up visual space underneath, armless chairs take up less space, and are easier to stow away. Where all items in the room seem more streamlined, the whole space is less cluttered.
4. Select A Circular or Elliptical Dining Table
A relatively small dining room might not make the perfect spot for one of those more traditional rectangular tables. Instead, try something round or oval. This type of table fits much better into space and allows the free movement around the room. Round tables are also perfect for warm, cozy dining. If you host often, an extendable round table can be versatile yet take up minimal space when it's not being used.
5. Use Vertical Space
When square footage is at a minimum, look up! Using vertical space can give a sense of height and spaciousness in an otherwise tiny dining room.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Hang floor-to-ceiling curtains that pull the eye upward.
- Float shelves to hang up decorative objects or store things like plates and glasses.
- Hang a vertical work of art or an impressive statement piece to play up the room's height.
- Incorporating vertical elements brings attention away from the narrower aspects of the room.
6. Use See-Through Furniture
Transparent furniture is the game-changer for small spaces. Glass or acrylic pieces such as a glass-top dining table or clear chairs eliminate visual clutter and make the room feel open.
These materials let light pass through, creating continuity in the space. Plus, they are stylish and modern, giving your dining room a chic airy vibe.
7. Keep the Space Clutter-Free
A small dining room loses its real feel from all the many items that clutter the space. Too much of anything can overwhelm a room and make it feel cramped.
Start by cleaning your dining table, leaving only a few decorative items, such as a centerpiece or a small vase. Organize everything using sideboards or wall-mounted cabinets to keep everything in view but out of the way.
It does not need to be overly complicated to make a small dining room look big. By following these tips, you can make the most of the vertical space and make the room look great. Your dining room will not only look larger but also become a space you’ll love spending time in. So go ahead, try these ideas, and watch your small dining room transform into a stylish and spacious haven!
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