Don't want to replace your dining furniture but want to give the space a new look? We share easy and affordable updates. 

Add a mirror

To instantly make your dining space appear more spacious, add a large-scale mirror. This will reflect more light and will also make your dining area appear more luxurious particularly if you go for a striking shape or frame. Go for a mirror as big as your room will allow or hang a matching pair for symmetry. 

Update the lighting

Changing up the lighting in your dining area will immediately create more atmosphere. Perhaps opt for a single statement chandelier or try a collection of pendant lights (see our blog post 4 perfect places for pendant lights for tips on styles and hanging heights). Also don't forget about adding a dimmer control for evening entertaining. 

Decorate one of the walls

Have a wall in your dining area that you can play with? What about using it to create a feature wall with an on-trend paint colour or some statement wallpaper. If you don't want to commit to too much of a dramatic change, perhaps go for some oversized art, or a gallery wall comprising a curation of wall art or family photos in matching picture frames. 

Lay down a rug

When thinking about the design scheme for your dining area, don't neglect the floor. Let colour and pattern continue down to the ground with a large area rug. It will also ground and define your dining space, plus add texture and warmth. Considering the dining area will be high-traffic and prone to spills, choose a low pile, heat-set synthetic rug or wool rug that is stain resistant, yet soft and durable. 

Add a sideboard

Another way to define your dining space, particularly if it's within a large open-plan area, is to section it off with a sideboard or buffet. It's also a great way to create extra storage for large platters and servingware, plus it's ideal for laying out food for buffet-style entertaining when there's not enough room on the dining table. You can also use the sideboard as a bar for mixing drinks or parking decanters and wine bottles. Don't have the space for a sideboard? What about a bar cart for the corner of your dining area?

Add a dining bench

Want to include more seating but don't want to invest in a new dining table? You can easily add an extra space or two with a dining bench instead of individual dining chairs. It also gives your dining area a less formal look, plus you can have some fun mixing and matching seating styles. 

Define with a room divider

If your dining area is within a large open-plan space, perhaps consider a room divider to separate the dining from the living area. A decorative screen can also inject warmth and personality. 

Update your table setting

Refreshing your table accessories can make a world of difference to your dining area too. Perhaps add a patterned tablecloth and a set of linen napkins or update your dinner set with a new colour or texture. Looking to inject some opulence? Gold cutlery will instantly bring sparkle and elegance to your meals. And, then, of course, don't forget the simple touch of class that fresh flowers in a beautiful vase brings to your table. You can easily create new looks to your dining space by changing up the look of each floral arrangement and play with colour, height and shape.