This is an example of a large transitional separate dining room in Dallas with metallic walls, medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a tile fireplace surround, brown floor, recessed and wallpaper.

Troon Modern

Kendle Design Collaborative

photography by Miguel Coelho
This is an example of a mid-sized modern open plan dining in Phoenix with metallic walls, porcelain floors, a ribbon fireplace, a metal fireplace surround and white floor.

Bluffview

Smith & Ragsdale Interior Design

While this new home had an architecturally striking exterior, the home’s interior fell short in terms of true functionality and overall style. The most critical element in this renovation was the kitchen and dining area, which needed careful attention to bring it to the level that suited the home and the homeowners. As a graduate of Culinary Institute of America, our client wanted a kitchen that “feels like a restaurant, with the warmth of a home kitchen,” where guests can gather over great food, great wine, and truly feel comfortable in the open concept home. Although it follows a typical chef’s galley layout, the unique design solutions and unusual materials set it apart from the typical kitchen design. Polished countertops, laminated and stainless cabinets fronts, and professional appliances are complemented by the introduction of wood, glass, and blackened metal – materials introduced in the overall design of the house. Unique features include a wall clad in walnut for dangling heavy pots and utensils; a floating, sculptural walnut countertop piece housing an herb garden; an open pantry that serves as a coffee bar and wine station; and a hanging chalkboard that hides a water heater closet and features different coffee offerings available to guests. The dining area addition, enclosed by windows, continues to vivify the organic elements and brings in ample natural light, enhancing the darker finishes and creating additional warmth. Photography by Ira Montgomery

Интерьер современного жилого дома в коттеджном поселке "Монтевиль"

Архитектурное бюро LOFTING

Design ideas for an expansive contemporary open plan dining in Moscow with metallic walls, marble floors and a ribbon fireplace.

Modern Renovation, Rye Brook, NY

Lara Michelle Interiors Inc.

Chuan Ding
Inspiration for a large transitional separate dining room in New York with metallic walls, dark hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a stone fireplace surround and brown floor.

Carolyn and Adam

B Designs Interior's

Inspiration for a large transitional separate dining room in Other with metallic walls, medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a stone fireplace surround, brown floor and wallpaper.

Manhattan meets Longboat Key

April Balliette

This is an example of a large eclectic open plan dining in Tampa with metallic walls, porcelain floors, a ribbon fireplace, a stone fireplace surround and beige floor.

Donessle Drive

Hakwood

Contemporary open plan dining in Chicago with metallic walls, dark hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a tile fireplace surround and brown floor.

Fairview Custom New Build

BGI Design

Large transitional separate dining room in Dallas with metallic walls, medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a tile fireplace surround, brown floor, recessed and wallpaper.

Modern Renovation, Rye Brook, NY

Lara Michelle Interiors Inc.

Chuan Ding
Inspiration for a large transitional separate dining room in New York with metallic walls, dark hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a stone fireplace surround and brown floor.

Fairview Custom New Build

BGI Design

Photo of a large transitional separate dining room in Dallas with metallic walls, medium hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a tile fireplace surround, brown floor, recessed and wallpaper.

Modern Renovation, Rye Brook, NY

Lara Michelle Interiors Inc.

Chuan Ding
This is an example of a large transitional separate dining room in New York with metallic walls, dark hardwood floors, a ribbon fireplace, a stone fireplace surround and brown floor.

Manhattan meets Longboat Key

April Balliette

Photo of a large eclectic open plan dining in Tampa with metallic walls, porcelain floors, a ribbon fireplace, a stone fireplace surround and beige floor.

Dining Room Design Ideas with Metallic Walls and a Ribbon Fireplace

A dining room can be used for casual dining, integrated into an open plan and connected to the living and kitchen areas; or as a formal space reserved solely for entertaining. While it may not be used frequently, it is a great focal point in the home, and requires little furnishings. Here's what you need to consider before you start planning a new dining room...

How will you use your dining room?

First, consider how frequently you will use the space. If you plan on using your dining room on a daily basis, a casual dining set-up with sturdy, long-lasting furniture is best. As for where you position it – well, any unused space in the home can be converted into a casual dining space, whether it be at the end of a kitchen island, or at the bottom of the stairs. A formal dining room, on the other hand, is more suited to a dedicated space, which is more common in heritage homes where space originally wasn’t at a premium. Perhaps you want your dining room to multi-task and accommodate everyday meals, homework sessions and grown-up dinner parties… If that’s the case, furniture is key. Look for versatile dining tables in either Australian or New Zealand hardwood or weathered timber for a more rustic look. These won’t show up sticky fingerprints as much and can be dressed up for guests.

What size and shape should your dining table be?

Your dining table should be able to seat all family members with some room for additional guests – each person should have at least 60 centimetres of space at the table. The right size, however, also depends on how much room you have. A general rule of thumb is to leave no less than 1 metre from the dining table to the wall or any additional furniture, so people have enough room to comfortably move around the space. Rectangular dining tables are versatile and can work in a variety of settings, while oval dining tables are more traditional and can turn any meal into an occasion. If you have a tight space to work in, a round dining table is best, and also a great option if you want to encourage conversation. A square dining table can be a dramatic addition to a dining room, but only if you have the space. It allows everyone at the table to see each other, but the bigger the table, the harder it will be able to hold a conversation with someone at the other end.

What type of dining chairs should you choose?

Once you’ve decided on a dining table, look for dining chairs that share a common design element. If your dining table legs are curved, for example, try to match them with dining chairs that have a similar curve, either in the legs or back. Next, consider the dimensions of the chair. The height of your dining chairs should allow at least 30 centimetres between the top of the seat and the top of the table. And to keep your tush happy, avoid dining chairs narrower than 45 centimetres.

How can you decorate your dining room?

Dining rooms are relatively minimal spaces, but that makes them a great place to splash a little colour through artwork, especially if yours is a formal dining room. If your dining room is lacking warmth, consider painting the walls a deep shade of red or blue, or go contemporary with black or grey. A cosy rug will make the space feel more intimate, while a sideboard or cabinet of curiosities will further personalise the space. Often overlooked, dining room lighting can also drastically alter the mood of a room, creating drama, spurring romance or encouraging conversation. Opt for soft lighting in the dining area with dimmer switches, and choose oversized pendants in large, open spaces or to make the dining area more of a focal point. Finally, add some table settings, such as a lace tablecloth for a whimsy feel, or a more basic table runner for a chic look. If you need some help designing your dining room, consider checking the Houzz directory of interior designers, home stylists, cabinet makers and more!