Let’s be honest: dining rooms don’t typically get a lot of design love. While these formal spaces play host to some of the most important and memorable meals in any given year (namely Thanksgiving dinner), they tend to collect dust from January through October. 

But, we’d argue that with the right color palette and some fresh dining room decor ideas, these classic spaces can be just as inviting and cozy as any living room—and can become prime spaces to gather all year round. In fact, dining rooms are the perfect candidates for intricate woodwork, moody paint, statement seating, atmospheric lighting, and eye-catching artwork. 

Case in point: the seven dining rooms below from the talented Clare community. From Sam Moore’s minimalist Venice Beach bungalow to Leigh + Co Interiors’ dreamy cottage, all seven are brimming with color, personality, and warmth. Ahead, find fresh and inviting designer-approved dining room decor ideas and the paint colors that complement them.

Mid-Century Romance

To breathe new life into her seldom-used dining room, design blogger Elsie Larson started with a warm coat of Meet Cute, a romantic, rosy pink. She then offset the shade with a neutral shag rug, white curtains, crisp white trim, and a light oak dining table and chair set. The final look is warm, inviting, and on-trend.