How Can I Make My Dining Room Look Expensive?

The phrase "dress for the job you want, not the job you have" can also be applied to the way you design and decorate your home, particularly in the dining room.

So then you might want to know, how can I make my dining room look expensive?

By creating a space that is elegant and inviting, you can show guests that you value socialising and entertaining.

Dining rooms have become an important part of many homes, serving as a place to host visitors, celebrate special occasions, and spend quality time with loved ones.

With our gorgeous selection of dining tables and dining chairs along with these tips from our design experts, you can transform this special part of your home into a welcoming and impressive space for your gatherings.

1. Invest in high-quality furniture

Beautiful, well-made furniture will instantly elevate the look of your dining room. It's important to select pieces that have been crafted from durable materials, such as wood or metal, and have a classic, timeless design.

While it may be tempting to simply purchase a matching set of furniture, adding some variety and personal style will set your room apart.

Instead of going for a uniform look, browse our dining chairs catalogue for designs that you can mix and match to add some visual interest to the space.

2. Add a statement piece

A statement piece is an item that stands out in a room, and in a dining area, this could be a large chandelier or a piece of artwork. It could even be a custom-made dining table from a truly luxurious brand. Choosing something that reflects your style and fits with the overall design of the space can make the room feel more luxurious.

Wallpaper is another option for making a dramatic statement, whether you use it on a single wall or apply it to the whole room! Furthermore, you can use bold wall colours or metallic accents to add a high-end touch.

The dining room is a good place to try out unconventional design choices, as it may not be used as frequently as other rooms in the house.

3. Use high-quality linens

Table linens can make a big difference in the look and feel of a dining room. Using luxurious tablecloths, placemats, and napkins adds style and sophistication to the space.

Instead of selecting a monochrome palette for everything, opt for shades that complement or contrast the tablecloth. Elevate this look by adding texture to the table with velvet napkins or other rich materials.

For a high-end formal touch, consider folding your napkins in an elaborate way, such as with a napkin bow. Embroidered napkins can also add a handmade, opulent quality to the table.

4. Accessorize

Bring depth to your styling with accessories such as candles, vases, and decorative plates or bowls. These can help personalise the space and make it feel more welcoming.

Consider displaying your favourite serving pieces, like heirloom dishes and other special dining accessories, either on the table or on a nearby sideboard. This is a great opportunity to showcase these items and bring them out of storage to be enjoyed.

5. Use lighting to your advantage

Well-thought-out lighting is an essential element in the success of any room’s design. Our lighting collection is a reflection of the increase in innovative and artistic lighting solutions that are well-suited for the dining area.

To create a warm and inviting atmosphere, consider using dimmer switches or layering multiple light sources. Avoid using harsh fluorescent bulbs, and instead opt for softer, more romantic lighting to give every meal a special feel.

6. Infuse the air with luxurious scents

Decorating a room should not just be limited to visual aesthetics. The sense of smell also plays a significant role in creating a desirable feel and mood for a space.

Using fragrances, such as Patchouli and Sandalwood, can introduce a subtle and upscale touch to the room.

Additionally, incorporating physical items with pleasant scents, like sprigs of rosemary, can enhance the overall appearance of the space. It is important to consider all the senses when decorating a room for a more immersive experience.

7. Incorporate greenery

There isn’t a single room in the house that wouldn’t benefit from the addition of some plants and flowers. A well-arranged bouquet can make a stunning centrepiece for a dining table whilst helping you incorporate natural elements into your decor.

To make things easy, we recommend choosing low-maintenance plants that match the design of the room. Not only will they add to the aesthetics of the space, but they can also improve the atmosphere by purifying the air and adding a pleasant scent.

8. Move your curtain rods higher

One simple way to make a room, like a dining room, appear more elegant and grand is to install your curtain rod a few inches higher and use long window panels.

This will make the room’s windows and walls seem taller and more stately, adding a touch of sophistication to the space.

9. Use a rug under the table

Don’t forget the flooring. Incorporating soft furnishings, like rugs, into the dining room can help elevate the space and make it feel more luxurious. A rug can also serve as a design element, helping to anchor the dining room table and chairs and define the area.

When choosing a rug, consider how the space is used and opt for a material that is both durable and easy to clean. Jute, for example, can withstand frequent use and spills without requiring frequent maintenance. Also, make sure your dining chairs don't get caught up in the edges of the rug. 

10. Keep it clean and clutter-free

Finally, sometimes, it isn’t about what you add, it’s what you take away. This might mean getting rid of piles of mail, pet toys, or mismatched furnishings that don't contribute to the overall aesthetic of your dining area.

A clean, organised space will always look more polished and appealing. To maintain a clutter-free dining room, make sure to regularly dust and vacuum and keep surfaces clear of excess items.

In conclusion

You don't have to completely redecorate your dining room to make it look refined and luxurious. In fact, with just a few small changes and some clever design tricks, you can transform this space into a more glamorous, sophisticated area.

We’ve designed some gorgeous contemporary homes over the years which might help to inspire your next dining room aesthetic. Take a look at our completed projects to see some of our residential interior designs

Whether it's adding a few key pieces of decor, changing the colour scheme, or just decluttering and organising the space, there are many easy ways to elevate the look and feel of the space.

For assistance updating your decor, visit our showroom and let our design experts guide you towards strategic changes that will leave your dining room looking polished and inviting.