Planning to remodel or redecorate your dining room? Let’s take a look at three of the most trendy interior design styles—Mid-Century Modern, Contemporary Farmhouse and Industrial—and how to incorporate them into your dining area.
1. Mid-Century Modern
Even if you’ve never heard the term “mid-century modern,” chances are you’ve seen countless examples of this timeless and popular design style. A movement that captures the mood and influences of the late-1930s to mid-60s, the mid-century modern look is characterized by several important features:
- Functionality before form
- An uncluttered look with minimal ornamentation
- Sleek, clean lines
- Organic forms and geometric patterns
- Juxtaposition of contrasting materials, textures and colors
To find the perfect mid-century modern dining room set, look for a sleek, simple, neutral table with chairs that are organically shaped and retro-inspired. Avoid chairs that have a multitude of slats or leg supports, which can make the space look too busy and cluttered. For a splash of color, choose mismatched end chairs in hues like maroon, blue, mustard yellow or orange to make a bold statement.
Pair your dining room set with a rug that adds contrast, in the form of texture or a geometric pattern. Keep the room and table minimally decorated to avoid visual clutter—a simple vase centerpiece, black-and-white wall art or statement lighting fixture is all you need to bring the space together in mid-century modern style.
2. Contemporary Farmhouse
A trend that’s been rising in popularity in recent years, the contemporary farmhouse style is also called contemporary rustic, modern farmhouse, etc. Whatever you call it, the essence of this design style is a light, modern look infused with the warmth and charm of classic farmhouses. Characteristics include:
- Plenty of wood, in the form of exposed beams, plank floors, paneled walls, barn-style doors, etc.
- Neutral color schemes, especially white and earth tones
- Use of natural or rustic elements like stone and brick
- Emphasis on natural fabrics and textures, such as canvas, burlap, linen and wool
In your contemporary farmhouse dining room, the key is the table you choose. To achieve that rustic look, opt for a large wood dining table—a distressed paint finish can add character, too. For your chairs, get creative with a mix of chunky bench seating, wooden stools and canvas-covered chairs. Light the room with rustic statement fixtures.
- Image: Holton Black 2 Piece Dining Chair Set From the RoomPlace
3. Industrial
Industrial design gives a room a stylishly unfinished look, with utilitarian décor, metal finishes and touches of commercial style. Perfect for a modern home or loft apartment, industrial style brings something raw and functional to a residential space. Key traits include:
- Exposed construction features like pipes and ductwork
- An abundance of metallic surfaces and fixtures, from polished stainless steel to cast iron
- Juxtaposition of other “raw” materials, like wood, concrete and brick
- Neutral color schemes
An industrial dining room should be a cool, utilitarian space. Metal chairs paired with a wooden table is a popular look, but feel free to mix it up with bench seating, barstools or mismatched chairs. When it comes to lighting, opt for pendant light fixtures with metallic finishes, or even bare bulb style fixtures for a warehouse look.
Whether you’re an admirer of the mid-century modern, contemporary farmhouse or industrial design styles, we hope this guide has given you plenty of inspiration for your upcoming project.
Out with old. In with the new.