Whether you want to use your dining room for casual family dinners or you want to create a more laid-back atmosphere for guests, it's handy to know the basics of converting your space. These ideas will show you how to make a formal dining room casual, making it more versatile on a daily basis.
Swap the Set
A dining room set that has an antique style will give a more formal look. Look at casual dining room sets that you can easily picture for more everyday use. You could go just as casual or just a step more formal than your kitchen set, depending on your style.
You could take it a step further by choosing dining chairs with cushions. Light or bright-colored dining room chair cushions will make the room look more like a place you could relax in. Cushions with fun prints also work well to create a casual feel.
(Pictured: Intercon 6-pc Arlington Rectangular Leg Table Dining Room Set- White)
Change the Color Scheme
You'll typically see darker colors in a formal dining room. If you are on the hunt for casual dining room ideas, changing up the color palette will give your space an instant makeover.
Stick with light or bright colors, or even a combination of both. Light blue, yellow, green and lilac will open up your dining room and make it look more inviting. If you don't want to go through the trouble of changing your wall color just yet, adding these colors with a tablecloth, cushions or wall art will do the trick.
(Pictured: Steve Silver 7-pc Montreal Rectangular Leg Table Dining Room Set)
Look at Lighting
Stray away from dramatic crystal chandeliers. Those will definitely make your dining room look more formal, which can be especially noticeable when the chandelier is the focal point in your dining area.
If you want to know how to make a dining room casual, a more simple chandelier would be your best choice. Chandeliers with shades will give a more subtle appearance. You can also try contemporary chandeliers for a sleek look, or mini chandeliers if you want to keep the look of a crystal chandelier.
(Pictured: Kenroy Home Wynwood 3 Light Chandelier)
If you need casual dining room decorating ideas, you won't have to go out to the store - what you need is already in your home. Hang children's artwork and family artwork on the wall. You can also place some of your favorite pieces on a buffet table or in a curio. Add plants in the corners of the room or in the center of the dining room table.
Keep your casual dining room decor as unique as possible by mixing up shapes and sizes. Put together collages with some of your photos, and let others stand on their own. Choose casual picture frames with straighter edges. You can find some with unique designs or inspirational quotes.
(Pictured: Uttermost Maulana, Photo Frames, Set of 3)
By: Lee Krumbein
