12 Ways to Step Up Your Dining Room Decor for the Holidays
Because the decor should be just as fabulous as the food.
The holiday season is officially upon us, and that means one thing for entertainers and non-entertainers, alike. It’s time to revive the dining room! Even those who detest dinner parties and survive on takeout alone are likely to have a guest or two stop by during the holiday season, and we all know the hub of the holidays is the grub. Now, I’m not suggesting takeout survivalists must learn how to cook. No, it’s perfectly acceptable to order your holiday grub, if that’s your style. BUT — make your display case pretty, my friends. That is, whether you’re cooking or not this holiday season, make sure your dining room is ready to welcome family and friends.
Check out these 12 simple ways to step up your dining room decor this year.
Dress Up Windows

Chipper Hatter
Are your dining room windows bare? Now is the time to pick out curtains or shades to dress them. Don’t be afraid to choose deep, rich colors — the dining room is the perfect space to embrace drama.
Update Lighting

KuDa Photography
While you can easily spend a pretty penny on a new dining room light fixture, you don’t have to. Achieve the look pictured above by simply hanging exposed Edison light bulbs from red wire. This inexpensive update works with a variety of design styles. (And how cool is that tabletop fireplace?)
Choose Wall Art That Wows

Sarah Dorio/Flynnside Out Productions, 2016, HGTV/Scripps Networks, LLC. All Rights Reserved
Empty walls can instantly make a room feel dull and lifeless. Don’t let your dining room be an offender! Choose artwork that coordinates with your color scheme and speaks to your design style.
Bring the Outdoors In

Red Arrow Industries
Breathe life into your space by incorporating plants. Here, potted succulents and fern fronds grace the dining table for an organically stylish look.
Display a Pretty Menu

Marian Parsons
Fill an empty wall and let guests know what’s for dinner by displaying your menu on a framed chalkboard.
Add Metallic Touches

Set the table with metallic accents for an instantly glamorous feel. Here, florist frog pins are spray painted gold to serve as name card holders.
Opt for a Tree Branch Centerpiece

Slifer Designs
Forage your centerpiece from your backyard to achieve a rustic, woodsy vibe.
Gild a Bar Tray

Line the surface of a plain, black serving tray with gold leaf to create a makeshift bar that’s elegant and portable. Set it atop your sideboard or buffet for holiday charm.
Cozy Up Chairs With Faux Fur

Tomas Espinoza
Drape dark faux fur over your dining room chairs to give them a cozy, seasonal update.
Add an Area Rug

Emily Minton Redfield
Ground your space and pull your design together with a patterned area rug. Choose a rug that complements your existing color palette.
Design a Textured Table Setting

Create a table setting using a combination of unexpected materials. Just be sure the textures in your tablescape achieve harmony. Here, seagrass and cork pair with soft fabrics, refined wood and mixed metallics for a look that’s balanced and beautiful.
Create Ambiance With Candles

Anthony Bianciella
If you’re pressed for time, candles will do just the trick. Group a collection of them on your dining table or buffet to create instant warmth and ambiance.