The kitchen may be the heart of the home, but the dining room is where the real action happens – it's where we gather, chat and celebrate life's little (and big) moments. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this space sets the stage for good food, good company and lots of memorable conversations.
This year, you can look forward to a mix of bold lighting and rich, moody colors in the dining room, bringing fresh personality and warmth to this important space. Here, we spoke to interior designers about these and other dining room trends that will be big in 2025.
Statement lighting
In 2025, dining room lights will feature fixtures that offer style and illumination in equal measure. “Bold pendant lights become sculptural focal points above the table,” says Alyssa Anselmo, interior designer and founder of Studio Anva. “They strike the perfect balance between function and personality, allowing homeowners to make a real statement.”
Daniel Joseph Chenin, chief designer and founder of Daniel Joseph Chenin Ltd., sees the same trend. He notes that lighting—for example, recessed LED lights paired with decorative wall lights—adds new depth and drama to the dining room. “These lights aren’t just about light—they’re like pieces of art that set the mood and transform dining rooms into dynamic, inviting spaces,” he says.
Real, solid furniture
Martha Stewart
Fast furniture is on the decline, and more and more people are favoring pieces that are designed to last. “We’re seeing a shift back to craftsmanship – furniture is now seen as an investment and not just something trendy to fill a room,” says Anselmo. Solid wood tables and chairs are making a strong comeback thanks to their warmth, durability and ability to age beautifully over time.
Dom Hage, founder of D. Hage Designs, suggests taking this trend a step further and thinking outside the box. Instead of traditional finishes, you can also use outdoor materials such as stone, gesso and polished concrete, creating a robust, handcrafted and intimate atmosphere.
Mixed materials
Molly Winters Culver
If you've been keeping the matching dining room set, maybe it's time for a change. “Mismatched sets are going to be huge this year,” says Hage. “It started to gain popularity last year, and now it’s evolving in even more fun ways.”
One way to get the look is to keep most of the pieces the same but add a statement item, like a vintage chair, that really stands out. If you want a more unified look, combine different materials within the same color family – such as black chairs made of leather, iron, upholstery or ebonized wood. “Think cousins, not twins,” Hage adds.
The influence of nature
Photography by Deborah Jaffe
Bringing the outdoors inside is not just a trend, it is becoming a defining feature of modern dining rooms. “Large windows and sliding glass doors that open to patios or gardens make interior spaces feel more connected to nature,” says Chenin. “This seamless flow not only enhances the dining experience, but also floods the space with natural light.”
Sarah Comerford, founder and CEO of Studio Belle, emphasizes the importance of materials in creating a biophilic look. “Earth tones and soft, organic textures like wool or linen help the space feel grounded and inviting,” she says.
Layered architectural elements
Dining rooms are getting a significant style upgrade in 2025 with layered architectural details that add both drama and sophistication. “Look for stunning wood paneling, intricate beams and barrel-vaulted ceilings,” says Comerford.
Paneled wall paneling and crown molding are also on the rise, adding depth and elegance and transforming ordinary meals into something special. “These don’t just look good – they provide a sense of durability and character that homeowners crave,” adds Comerford.
Atmospheric tones
Design:Emily Henderson Design; Photo: Zeke Ruelas
Deep, moody colors make dining rooms feel more inviting, with rich blues, earthy greens and warm browns replacing the once popular whites and grays. “People are realizing that minimalist color schemes seem lifeless, and they are craving spaces that feel soulful and inspiring,” says Anselmo.
After years of flawless, almost impersonal interiors, there is now a shift towards depth and authenticity. “People are craving life, art and depth – especially after the pandemic,” she adds. “We want our spaces to reflect the richness of the world around us.”
Private meal
As the trend for open-plan living spaces begins to fade, more homeowners are falling in love with the idea of dedicated dining areas. “Segregated areas create a sense of ritual and belonging,” says Anselmo. “People crave spaces that feel safe and inviting.”
And while open floor plans certainly offer flexibility, they can sometimes feel a bit cold or pointless. By creating specific areas for eating, people can create spaces that encourage slower meals and deeper conversations.