The dining room is one of the most important spaces in the house. It’s where we welcome guests, celebrate special occasions and create memories around the table.
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That’s why keeping the dining room balanced, functional and visually appealing is essential to ensure comfort and elegance on a daily basis. According to interior designers, there are some items that can compromise the harmony of the space, and avoiding them makes all the difference.
Below, we’ve gathered 9 things you should keep out of your dining room to achieve a more sophisticated, light and welcoming look.
1. Unnecessary electronic devices
Televisions, oversized speakers, video games and screens in general divert attention from the environment — which should be focused on togetherness. Besides visually cluttering the space, they also create a less intimate atmosphere. Designers recommend avoiding electronics in the dining room to preserve a more human and interactive experience.
2. Piles of mail and documents
The dining room should not function as a dumping zone. Bills, papers, bags and loose objects create instant clutter and prevent the space from conveying a sense of order. Opt for organizers near the entrance or a discreet console table to avoid accumulation.
3. Harsh or inadequate lighting
Lighting that is too white, cold or intense can make meals uncomfortable. Designers recommend warm, diffused and soft lighting that enhances the food, creates coziness and encourages conversation. Chandeliers with dimmers are an excellent choice to adjust the light to the occasion.
4. Rugs that are too small (or none at all)
A common mistake is using rugs that are smaller than the table-and-chair set. This creates disproportion and disrupts the design. If you choose a rug, it should extend beyond the chairs even when they are pulled back. Otherwise, it’s better not to use one.
5. Excessive table décor
Oversized centerpieces, very tall arrangements or too many decorative items hinder movement and prevent guests from seeing each other. The ideal is to choose low and elegant elements — such as candles, a discreet vase or a minimalist sculptural piece.
6. Uncomfortable chairs
There’s no point in having an aesthetically impeccable dining room if the chairs are hard, unstable or uncomfortable. Designers say this is one of the most serious mistakes, as discomfort drives people away from the table. Prioritize ergonomics, quality materials and cushioned seats.
7. Sports or gym items
Helmets, gym bags, dumbbells, sneakers and sports equipment should stay far away from the dining room. Besides breaking the aesthetic, they reinforce the feeling of clutter. Dedicate a space in the laundry room or hallway to store these items.
8. Overly strong room fragrances
Although scents can create atmosphere, overwhelming fragrances interfere with taste and make meals unpleasant. Lightly scented candles or subtle diffusers are welcome, as long as they don’t dominate the space.
9. Furniture that doesn’t match the environment
Dressers, random shelves, office furniture or pieces with no function in the space disrupt visual flow. The dining room should have intentional furniture: table, chairs, sideboard and, at most, a display cabinet or buffet well integrated with the room’s style.
Simplicity and functionality are the keys to an elegant dining room
Designers agree that the ideal dining room is one that balances aesthetics and practicality. By removing items that create visual noise or compromise comfort, you transform the space into a more inviting, harmonious and sophisticated environment. Choose smart solutions, quality materials and warm lighting — your dining room will thank you.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
