Combine modern and rustic furniture for a laid back dining room

Combine modern and rustic furniture with calm colours and quirky finishing touches for a laid-back dining scheme.

Love this dining room

• Start with a neutral base, then use a mixture of natural wood and designer Nordic furniture to add an upmarket edge.

• Use black as an accent, but stick to wirework and slim accessories rather than solid blocks that might overwhelm the look.

• Balance this scheme with delicate pattern – line drawings and crackle glaze work well.

• Introduce textiles to inject softness and comfort – use worn linen napkins at the table every day, not just on special occasions.

• Use a piece of sanded oak as a table top – the grain’s imperfections add interest.

Good Idea

Update existing crockery without buying a whole new set by adding a few side plates in a complementary colour, such as on-trend pink – it will enhance the casual, mismatched effect.

Styling Tip

Position a row of three pendant lights above the table to zone your dining space – particularly useful in open-plan homes.

Black and White

Use a couple of chair designs in contrasting colours to match the monochrome mood.

Go large

Play with scale by choosing oversized ornaments, such as this ampersand.

Decorating with tactile textures

Worn Wood – Warm a pale palette with natural, organic elements. Pick raw, untreated timber that has lots of character.

Painted Metal – Modernise an otherwise feminine scheme with angular wire furniture and accessories in chalky matt black.

Dress to impress

Layer plates and bowls for striking dinner-party style. Stick to similar shades for a co-ordinated effect.

Metallic highlights

A fl ash or two of brass brightens up matt, stone-toned ceramics.

Credit: Amara (amara.com)