Home Dining Room Designs: Top Tips from industry Experts

Creating a winning dining room layout isn't as simple as putting a table in the middle of the room and calling it a day. The correct table shape, smart storage solutions, the perfect ambiance, and practical decor elements can help you establish an inviting entertainment space, whether in a formal dining room or in an open-concept kitchen or living room.

Looking for inspiration? These expert-approved dining room layout ideas are ready to help.

Credits go to Marie Flanigan Interiors and Julie Soefer Photography

Marie Flanigan, an interior designer, advises adapting the shape of your dining room table to the dimensions of your space.

"For extended spaces, a rectangular table works wonders," she notes. "Make sure always to leave at least 36 inches of space between the table border and the wall or nearby furniture to allow easy movement."

Creating a flow within a square room can be achieved with a round table and dining chairs with curved backs.

Flanigan points out that "A round table softens a square room and stimulates conversation. Consider the pathways people will take to move through the room. Ensure clear routes around the table, especially between the dining area and kitchen."

Storage pieces that also serve as places for entertaining are high on Flanigan's recommendation list.

"Sideboards or credenzas provide balance and additional storage," she says. "Position them where they don't disrupt movement and use them as a chance to add stylish details like art, lamps, or flowers."

Add warmth to your dining room and define the area with a rug.

Flanigan's rule of thumb is "Allow a gap of at least 24 inches from the edge of the table on all sides so chairs can still be comfortably on the rug when pulled out."

Layered lighting creates a functional layout and a pleasing ambiance.

"Start with a statement chandelier above the table," Flanigan advises. "Add in sconces or a lamp on a sideboard to create a softer light. Each layer of light contributes to a room feeling well-thought-out and finished."

Credits to O’Hara Interiors and Spacecrafting Photography

Heidi Feliz-Grimm of O’Hara Interiors suggests centering your dining room layout around a spacious window seat for a cozy touch.

"This dining room has multiple purposes," Feliz-Grimm says. "It's ideal for hosting meals, but I can also imagine the homeowner relaxing here with a book and taking in the lake view."

In open-concept kitchens, Feliz-Grimm often places a rectangular table perpendicular to the kitchen island to establish balance.

"This is an area for entertaining," Feliz-Grimm highlights. "The light fixture over the dining area provides illumination but doesn't block lines of conversation between the prep and dining space."

Credits to Studio Peake

A standalone bench can help anchor the table in a living room dining room combo. Studio Peake suggests a high-backed bench against the wall to maximize space, with a backless bench facing the living room to ensure clear vision.

Small dining rooms and eat-in kitchens require close attention to the distance between the island and surrounding cabinetry. Feliz-Grimm ensures there's enough space for people to eat at the island comfortably while still using the dishwasher.

"We aim for 48 inches between the seating and the perimeter, but this area has over 50 inches for added convenience," she states.