How to Design a Playful, Yet Sophisticated Dining Room

All too often, we treat dining rooms as an “only for special occasions” space, but really, where do such formalities fit into daily life with kids and pets and messy eaters? Taking a more relaxed approach — infusing color, choosing chairs that are actually comfortable, adding a touch of whimsy — can make for a room that’s both elevated and fun and ideal for hosting everything from family game night to a five-course dinner party.

Case in point: This colorful dining room, designed entirely with chic and affordable products from The Home Depot. Here’s how to make the look your own.

Cue the Comfort

Make your dining room a place where people want to gather by opting for furniture that begs you to sit down and stay awhile. Eschew rigid pieces, with nary a cushion in sight, for a tactile touch that will instantly make the space more inviting.

Choose velvet upholstered chairs, which bring the funk and the functionality in a way that invites everyone to relax and linger. Pair them with a table big enough for everyone to spread out (and that can double as a homework zone). Placing a geometric rug underfoot brings a plush, stylish punch.

Make storage stylish

Consider a double-tier bar cart, which rolls out the retro vibes — and some extra surface area — for storing glassware and entertaining essentials. Corral collectibles and serveware in an open shelving unit (rather than a stuffy hutch) for a more relaxed look. A gilded piece like this four-shelf number lends ample storage and offers a styling opportunity. If you prefer to keep things more contained, opt for a funky sideboard that provides concealed storage.

Add Artful Accents

Making the space sing is all about the little things — adding interest through art, accessories, and fixtures. A statement chandelier, such as a midcentury-inspired starburst silhouette in brass and metal, functions as hanging art.

Mirrors, like this gold hexagon shape further the modern feel, lend a little glam, and create the illusion of extra space. To make your room feel truly lived in, display collectibles on open shelving and add some greenery to the mix, elevating classic planters with a contemporary plant stand.

Set a Creative Table

Of course, the table is central for gathering and showing off your personal style. Add serene color with powder blue ceramic dinnerware (it’s made from stoneware, which is dishwasher and microwave safe, making it ideal for everyday use). Create a pretty focal point by filling a ceramic pitcher with a seasonal bouquet. Don’t want to deal with the fussiness of real flowers? Fake it with some bold silk blooms that will keep their color all year long.

Pack a Punch

A super simple way to make a fun, colorful or bold statement is with an accent wall featuring peel-and-stick wallpaper. The beauty is, it’s perfect for commitment phobes because you can easily swap it out if you want to switch things up next season or year. And the options are endless: The Home Depot has everything from neutral patterns and bold graphics to whimsical botanicals.