8 Warm and Welcoming Dining Room Tables
Create an inviting dining space where people can share memories and lots of food
Though we choose our dining tables based on our style preferences and practical needs, we also consider how conducive the tables will be to the experiences we hope to have there. We imagine our families and friends sharing stories and laughs around our dining tables, and we think about how special the holidays will feel. If warm and welcoming is your aim for the meals you host, pull up a chair and find inspiration in these dining room tables just right for lingering over (with dessert), no matter your style.
2. Casual elegance. When you host large groups, an oversize dining table is a must. A table that seats 12 will make a dramatic statement, so you can pare back the decor. A table with clean lines and chairs that are classic and comfortable will accommodate the hours of story swapping and laughs you’ll have while gathered here.
Forever Furniture: A Buyer’s Guide to the Dining Table
Forever Furniture: A Buyer’s Guide to the Dining Table
3. Nordic Zen. This minimalist look is interesting because the streamlined and simple table is paired with chairs that have curves and warmth. The edited-down aesthetic is refreshing and light. Herbal tea and intimate conversation with your nearest and dearest would undoubtedly feel refreshing around this table.
Table: custom; paint: Distant Gray, Benjamin Moore
Table: custom; paint: Distant Gray, Benjamin Moore
4. Industrial comfort. An industrial table can be hip in a downtown loft or inviting in a suburban Craftsman. For a cozier and more approachable feel, incorporate plush textures with upholstered chairs and throws.
12 Ways to Get the Industrial Look for Less
12 Ways to Get the Industrial Look for Less
5. Approachable glamour. A country-style table can bring warmth to an otherwise glam room without compromising sophistication. This “high-low” approach is the interior design equivalent to the fashion world’s statement earrings and white T-shirt. Elevate the look with a dramatic chandelier and elegant chairs, and you have a combination that guests will feel right at home in.
Chairs: Serena & Lily; paint: Balboa Mist, Benjamin Moore
Chairs: Serena & Lily; paint: Balboa Mist, Benjamin Moore
6. Globe-trotter. You draw inspiration from your world travels when preparing meals for your guests. It’s how you share your experiences with those you couldn’t bring with you. With your international menus and gathered decor, a simple lacquered tulip table may be the perfect foundation for your eclectic dining room.
Browse international design stories
Browse international design stories
7. Shabby Chic style. This is a table worthy of a leisurely brunch gathering. Its simplicity allows space for playful accents and design details. It’s small enough for everyone to feel connected during your friends’ favorite weekend ritual, but also spacious enough for big laughs, mugs of coffee, bloody marys and second servings.
Table: West Elm; chairs: HD Buttercup
Table: West Elm; chairs: HD Buttercup
8. Coastal modern. You don’t have to be too obvious with coastal-themed decor. Allude to your love of the ocean with a table the color of driftwood and chairs that are more modern than beachy. The table’s rustic finish will hide any dents and scratches from your vacationing guests on game night.
Your turn: How do you invite warmth and comfort with your personal style in the dining room? Tell us and share a photo in the Comments!
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Your turn: How do you invite warmth and comfort with your personal style in the dining room? Tell us and share a photo in the Comments!
More
Key Measurements for Planning the Perfect Dining Room
10 Tips for Getting a Dining Room Rug Just Right
Pro tip: The plastic midcentury chairs are easy to wipe up when kids and others spill.
Eames-style side chairs: Overstock; Belgian slope-arm, slipcovered armchairs: Restoration Hardware; chandelier: Studio McGee; paint: Chantilly Lace, Benjamin Moore