How to Make Your Dining Room Look Expensive | 10 Design Hacks

If your dining room feels basic, mismatched, or just… underwhelming, you’re not alone. This post is all about how to make your dining room look expensive, without spending a fortune.

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Maybe it’s a hand-me-down dining set, a rug that never fit quite right, or lighting that feels more functional than fabulous.

You’ve pinned all the dreamy dining spaces on Pinterest, but when it comes to your own? Something’s missing.

The good news? You don’t need a massive budget—or a full remodel—to make your dining room look expensive. You just need a few tricks designers use to elevate their clients’ homes.

Let’s jump in.

This post is all about how to make your dining room look expensive.

READ MORE>>> Home Design Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk 2025

1. Create a Dining Room Banquette

If you’re tight on space and can’t fit a standard dining table with 36 inches of clearance all around, this one’s for you.

Instead of using traditional dining chairs on all sides, create a cozy banquette setup using two loveseats or benches in an L-shape. Pair them with a round or pedestal table and tuck in a few additional chairs on the open side.

It’s a designer-favorite trick that gives you that built-in, custom look, without the custom price tag. Add throw pillows, mix your materials, and you’ll have a restaurant-style nook that feels high-end, even in a smaller space.

This look works for both traditional and modern styles—just swap out your table and chairs to match your vibe. Not sure what your style is? Take my free style quiz (linked below) to shop with clarity and confidence.

And yes, this entire setup can be created with pieces from Crate & Barrel, West Elm, or even Walmart.

Just make sure to measure first. Need help with that? Download my free “How to Measure Your Room” guide.

2. Choose a Sculptural Dining Table

Your dining table is the anchor of the entire room, so let it be a showstopper.

Right now, designers are loving tables with sculptural bases, fluted wood detailing, and mixed materials. If you’re okay with a little maintenance, a glass tabletop over a bold base can feel like functional art.

Want something more durable? Wood, stone, or metallic accents give you the texture and contrast you need.

One of my personal favorites? A metal base paired with an organic stone top. It’s timeless, elegant, and adds instant drama.

Even in smaller dining rooms, a table with an interesting base becomes a sculptural focal point. Don’t be afraid to go bold here.

And yes, designer tables can be pricey. But this is one piece worth investing in, especially since most people keep their dining table for 10 to 15 years.

3. Mix Dining Chairs Like a Designer

Matching dining sets are a thing of the past. Designers love to mix and match dining chairs to create a layered, intentional look.

Start by choosing simple side chairs, then bring in bolder end chairs in a different material, fabric, or silhouette.

shop DINING CHAIRS

Think velvet scalloped backs, boucle textures, or open-frame metal designs. Dining chairs are functional, yes—but they’re also a huge opportunity to add style and personality to your space.

If you’re on a budget, go simple on the sides and splurge on just the two end chairs. Want a more playful option?

Add a bench or ottomans on one side. It’s casual, unexpected, and totally elevated when done right.

4. Add a Bar Cart or Drink Station

A bar cart is one of those pieces that instantly makes your room feel more styled and intentional, even if you never mix a drink.

In a small corner, a well-styled cart with glassware, cocktail books, and layered decor becomes a moment. Look for bar carts with unique finishes (like gold, matte black, or fluted wood) or add wheels so you can move it around when entertaining.

Not into carts? Try a short bar cabinet instead. Top it with a mirror or oversized artwork to finish the look.

Best part? You can find options at every price point from HomeGoods to Target and beyond.

5. Dining Room Lighting Ideas

Lighting can completely change the way your dining room feels. Designers always layer lighting instead of relying on just one overhead fixture.

Here’s how to think about it:

• A chandelier or pendant for general lighting
• Wall sconces or buffet lamps for accent lighting
• A table lamp on a sideboard for soft, ambient glow

Now, don’t skip this if you’re renting or in an apartment. There are amazing battery-operated sconces now that don’t require any wiring.

No matter your space or budget, lighting adds depth, polish, and a designer-level finish.

6. Dining Room Rug Size

Nothing throws off a dining room faster than a rug that’s too small.

Here’s the rule: Your rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond each side of the table. That way, chairs stay on the rug—even when pulled out.

Need help choosing the right size? I walk you through it in my Designer Home 101 course. But as a quick guide:

• Neutral rug = lets your art or chairs stand out
• Colorful rug = defines the color palette
• Patterned rug = ties everything together

Your rug grounds the space—so don’t skip it.

7. Add a Console or Buffet Table

A console or buffet adds balance and storage, and creates another styling opportunity.

If your chairs or dining table are already making a statement, go simple with the console. Think clean lines, neutral finishes, and subtle texture (like a stone top or leather pulls).

If your main furniture is minimal, go bold here. I’m talking carved wood, inlaid patterns, or a lighted cabinet.

In small spaces, use a narrow console. In larger ones, line up two or three smaller pieces for a budget-friendly custom look.

And quick side note—remember that stunning arched reeded bed I showed you last week? That same look now comes in a four-door console with backlighting. It’s functional and fabulous—and it’s shown below.

8. Dining Room Wall Art

When in doubt, go big with your wall decor. One oversized piece of art feels more intentional and expensive than a cluttered gallery wall.

Bonus: You can DIY your own abstract or plaster piece if you have an old canvas you’re no longer using.

If your rug and chairs are neutral, choose art that brings in bold color. If your furniture is loud, go for soft textures or tonal pieces to balance it out.

And remember, wall art doesn’t have to be a print:

• Grouping of mirrors
• Textile or tapestry
• Sculptural wall panel

Even black and white photography can feel luxe when scaled and framed properly.

9. Add Plants or Sculptural Greenery

Greenery is a designer’s secret weapon.

It adds texture, height, and breathes life into a dining space. Try a tall faux olive tree in a corner, or a statement vase with fresh branches on your table.

You can even place a sculptural planter on a small pedestal table to fill an empty corner—it’s an easy way to create a focal point.

And no worries if you don’t have a green thumb. Faux plants have come a long way, and many are practically indistinguishable from the real thing.

10. Use Texture, Color, and Layered Decor

This is the cherry on top.

Layer your table and surfaces with pieces that mix materials, heights, and finishes. Think linen table runners, stacked books, candles, ceramic bowls, or colored glass vases.

Group items in threes for balance. Or keep it minimal with two contrasting pieces in the center of your table.

The goal is to add warmth and interest, without clutter. Because yes, less is more… both in design and in dusting.

Final Thoughts: How to Make Your Dining Room Look Expensive

Designing a dining room that feels polished and expensive doesn’t have to mean spending thousands. With the right mix of furniture, lighting, art, and decor, you can transform even the most basic space into a room that looks like it came out of a magazine.

To recap:

• Anchor your space with statement furniture
• Layer lighting for mood and depth
• Choose art and greenery that adds personality
• Focus on quality, texture, and proportion

Whether you tackle one tip at a time or do a full dining room refresh, you’re now equipped with the tools and inspiration to make it happen.

Let me know in the comments which tip you’re excited to try first—and don’t forget to check out the links for my favorite budget-friendly finds.

Happy designing!

xo, Nikki D

This post is all about how to make your dining room look expensive.