Savannah, Georgia, is famous for its historic charm and stunning architecture, and bringing that essence into your dining room creates a space filled with Southern elegance. The local aesthetic often blends old-world sophistication with coastal freshness, resulting in rooms that feel both grand and incredibly welcoming for guests. Whether you live in a historic townhouse or a modern suburban home, you can capture this vibe through curated furniture, soft color palettes, and natural textures that reflect the surrounding landscape. From mossy greens to ocean blues, the colors of the South provide a perfect backdrop for memorable meals and long conversations with family and friends.
1. Southern dining room
Imagine walking into a space that perfectly captures the essence of Georgia hospitality through a classic Southern dining room layout. This design typically features a large, sturdy wooden table that serves as the heart of the home, surrounded by comfortable upholstered chairs that encourage guests to linger long after the meal has ended. You might see traditional elements like a polished sideboard for serving dishes and a large area rug with a subtle floral pattern to ground the space. The walls are often painted in soft, creamy whites or light beiges to keep the atmosphere feeling airy and bright throughout the day.
2. Coastal dining room
A coastal dining room brings the refreshing breeze of the Atlantic coast right into your home with a light and airy aesthetic. This design often uses a palette of soft blues, sandy tans, and crisp whites to create a relaxing environment that feels like a permanent vacation. You can incorporate natural materials like rattan chairs, a jute rug, and a light-washed oak table to enhance the seaside vibe. Large windows are essential here to let in plenty of natural sunlight, making the space feel open and connected to the outdoors. Simple glass accessories and driftwood accents provide the perfect finishing touches.
3. Historic home dining room
Designing a dining room within a historic home requires a delicate balance between preserving original architectural details and adding modern comfort. These spaces often feature high ceilings, elaborate crown molding, and original hardwood floors that provide a sense of grandeur and history. You can lean into this look by choosing antique furniture pieces and a dramatic crystal chandelier that highlights the room's vintage character. Soft, muted wall colors like sage green or dusty rose can complement the aged wood and create a sophisticated backdrop. Adding heavy drapery and ornate mirrors further enhances the classic, timeless feel of a Savannah townhouse.
4. Formal dining room
A formal dining room is the ultimate setting for holiday gatherings and special celebrations, emphasizing elegance and tradition in every detail. This design usually centers around a long, polished mahogany or walnut table paired with matching high-back chairs for a cohesive look. Wall treatments like wainscoting or silk wallpaper add a layer of texture and refinement to the room's perimeter. A large, ornate rug with a traditional Persian or Oriental design helps to define the seating area and adds warmth underfoot. Finishing touches, such as a silver tea set or fine china displayed in a breakfront, complete this prestigious look.
5. Modern farmhouse dining room
The modern farmhouse dining room combines rustic charm with clean, contemporary lines to create a space that feels both trendy and lived-in. You can achieve this look by pairing a reclaimed wood trestle table with sleek, black metal chairs or simple white benches. Neutral color palettes dominate this style, often featuring shades of charcoal, grey, and white to keep the room feeling fresh and bright. Natural accents like a large glass vase filled with eucalyptus or a woven basket for linens add a touch of organic beauty. This design is perfect for those who love a comfortable, family-friendly environment.
6. Small dining room
Creating a functional and stylish dining area in a small space requires clever furniture choices and a light color palette. You can maximize the room by choosing a round pedestal table, which takes up less floor space and allows for easier movement around the area. Using armless chairs also helps to keep the space from feeling cluttered while providing enough seating for your guests. Mirrors are a great addition to a small dining room, as they reflect light and create the illusion of a much larger area. Keeping the decor simple and intentional ensures the room remains inviting and cozy.
7. Open plan dining room
In an open plan dining room, the challenge is to create a distinct eating area that flows seamlessly with the living and kitchen spaces. You can define the dining zone by using a large area rug and a statement light fixture that hangs directly over the table. Choosing furniture that complements the colors and materials found in the adjacent rooms helps to create a cohesive and harmonious look throughout the home. Using a low-profile sideboard or a bench can provide extra storage and seating without blocking sightlines. This design style is ideal for modern homes that prioritize social interaction.
8. Rustic dining room
A rustic dining room focuses on raw, natural materials and a warm, earthy color palette to create a cozy and grounded atmosphere. This design often features a heavy wooden table with a natural edge or a distressed finish that shows off the wood's unique grain. You can pair the table with leather-seated chairs or woven wicker pieces to add different textures to the space. Exposed ceiling beams or a stone accent wall can further enhance the rugged, outdoorsy feel of the room. Soft lighting from a wrought iron chandelier or hurricane lanterns creates a welcoming glow for evening meals.
9. Patterned wallpaper dining room
Using patterned wallpaper is a fantastic way to add personality and visual interest to a dining room, making it a true focal point. You can choose from a variety of styles, such as classic damask, botanical prints, or modern geometric patterns, depending on the vibe you want. To keep the room from feeling overwhelmed, it is best to pair bold wallpaper with neutral furniture and simple accessories. The pattern can also help to hide minor wall imperfections and adds a layer of sophistication that paint alone cannot provide. This approach allows you to express your unique style in a bold way.
10. Exposed brick dining room
An exposed brick dining room offers a touch of urban industrial charm and a sense of history that is very common in Savannah. The natural red or brown tones of the brick provide a warm and textured backdrop that pairs beautifully with various furniture styles. You can lean into the industrial look with metal-framed chairs and a wood-and-pipe table, or soften the space with upholstered seating and soft linens. Adding a few pieces of modern art or a large clock to the brick wall can create a stylish contrast between the old and the new.
11. High ceiling dining room
A dining room with high ceilings offers a sense of airiness and grandeur that can be emphasized with the right design choices. You can draw the eye upward by hanging a large, multi-tiered chandelier or a series of oversized pendant lights over the dining table. Using tall bookshelves or a floor-to-ceiling mirror can also help to fill the vertical space and make the room feel more balanced. For the walls, consider using a darker paint color or a textured treatment to add warmth and prevent the room from feeling too cold or empty. This architectural feature creates a dramatic dining experience.
12. Natural light dining room
Focusing on natural light can transform a dining room into a bright and energizing space that feels connected to the world outside. This design works best with large windows, glass doors, or even a skylight that allows sunlight to flood the room throughout the day. You can enhance this effect by using light-colored furniture and sheer window treatments that don't block the view or the light. Placing a large mirror opposite a window can also help to bounce light around the room, making it feel even more spacious. This setup is perfect for enjoying a sunny weekend brunch.
13. Blue white dining room
A blue and white dining room offers a classic, timeless look that is reminiscent of coastal living and traditional Southern style. You can use a crisp white as your base color for the walls and furniture, then add pops of blue through chair cushions, napkins, and dinnerware. This color combination feels fresh and clean, making it a popular choice for both formal and casual dining spaces. Incorporating patterns like stripes, florals, or ginger jar motifs can add a layer of traditional charm to the room. It is a versatile palette that always stays in fashion.
14. Antique dining room
An antique dining room celebrates the beauty of pieces from the past, creating a space that feels curated and full of character. You can mix different eras of furniture, such as a Victorian sideboard with Queen Anne chairs, to create a layered and interesting look. Using vintage textiles, like a lace tablecloth or embroidered napkins, adds a soft and personal touch to the dining experience. Displaying a collection of old silver or heirloom porcelain in a glass-front cabinet further enhances the historical vibe. This design style is perfect for those who appreciate the stories behind their home decor.
15. Minimalist dining room
A minimalist dining room focuses on simplicity, functionality, and clean lines to create a calm and clutter-free environment for eating. This design typically features a sleek, simple table and chairs with no unnecessary ornamentation or bulky details. The color palette is usually limited to neutrals like white, grey, and black, which helps to create a sense of order and serenity. You can add a single piece of statement art or a simple vase of flowers to provide a focal point without overwhelming the space. This approach is ideal for those who prefer a modern and tidy home.
16. Boho dining room
The boho dining room is all about creativity, comfort, and a mix of global influences that create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. You can achieve this look by combining different textures, such as a macrame wall hanging, a colorful kilim rug, and a variety of mismatched chairs. Using natural materials like wood, rattan, and plenty of indoor plants helps to bring an organic and lively feel to the space. Don't be afraid to use bold colors and patterns that reflect your personal travels and interests. This design style encourages a laid-back and festive dining experience for everyone.
17. French country dining room
A French country dining room blends rustic elegance with a touch of old-world charm to create a space that feels warm and sophisticated. This design often features a weathered wooden table, chairs with cabriole legs, and soft, floral-patterned upholstery. The color palette typically includes muted tones like lavender, sage green, and butter yellow, which reflect the colors of the French countryside. You can add a wrought iron chandelier and a few pieces of copper cookware for a truly authentic feel. This style is perfect for those who want a dining room that is both beautiful and cozy.
18. Dark wood dining room
Using dark wood in a dining room creates a sense of moodiness, luxury, and traditional sophistication that never goes out of style. You can choose a large table made of ebony, dark oak, or walnut to serve as a dramatic centerpiece for the room. To keep the space from feeling too heavy, it is important to balance the dark furniture with lighter wall colors and plenty of artificial lighting. Adding metallic accents like gold or brass candle holders can provide a touch of shine and elegance against the dark wood. This look is ideal for formal evening dinner parties.
19. Round table dining room
A round table dining room is perfect for fostering conversation and creating a more intimate atmosphere during meals with family and friends. Because there are no sharp corners, a round table allows everyone to see and speak to each other easily, making it great for social gatherings. This shape also works well in smaller rooms or square-shaped spaces where a rectangular table might feel too cramped. You can pair a round table with a central pedestal base to provide more legroom for your guests. Adding a circular rug underneath the table helps to define the space perfectly.
20. Oval table dining room
An oval table dining room offers the best of both worlds, providing the length of a rectangular table with the soft edges of a round one. This shape is ideal for larger families or those who frequently host guests, as it can usually accommodate more people while still feeling intimate. The curved ends of an oval table help to improve the flow of movement around the room, making it a practical choice for busy households. You can choose a sleek modern design or a more traditional wooden piece to suit your home's overall style. It is a very versatile option.
21. Large dining room
Designing a large dining room allows you to go big with your furniture and decor choices to create a truly grand and impressive space. You can use a long table that seats twelve or more people, making it the perfect setting for hosting large holiday meals and celebrations. To keep the room from feeling empty, consider adding a large sideboard, a pair of armchairs in the corners, and an oversized area rug. Using multiple light fixtures, such as a pair of matching chandeliers, can help to illuminate the entire table evenly. This design style is all about luxury and scale.
22. Chandelier dining room
A chandelier is often the crowning jewel of a dining room, providing both essential light and a stunning visual focal point for the space. You can choose from a wide variety of styles, from traditional crystal designs to modern sputnik fixtures or rustic wagon wheel versions. The key is to pick a chandelier that matches the scale of your table and the overall height of your ceiling. Hanging the light at the correct height ensures it illuminates the table without obstructing the view of your guests. A well-chosen chandelier can instantly elevate the mood and style of any dining room.
23. Art gallery dining room
Transforming your dining room into an art gallery is a great way to display your favorite pieces while creating a sophisticated atmosphere for meals. You can create a gallery wall with a mix of framed paintings, photographs, and sketches that reflect your personal taste and interests. To keep the look cohesive, try using frames in a similar color or style, or focus on a specific theme or color palette for the artwork. Using dedicated picture lights can help to highlight the art and provide a soft, ambient glow for the room. This approach makes every meal feel like a special event.
24. Garden view dining room
A dining room with a garden view allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature while you eat, creating a peaceful and serene environment. This design works best when the table is placed near large glass doors or windows that look out onto a lush backyard or a well-kept patio. You can bring the outdoors in by using botanical prints, green accents, and plenty of indoor plants throughout the room. Using natural materials like wood and stone helps to further connect the interior space with the garden outside. It is a wonderful way to start your morning.
25. Industrial style dining room
An industrial style dining room uses raw materials and a neutral color palette to create a cool, urban vibe that is both modern and functional. You can incorporate elements like a concrete-topped table, metal chairs, and exposed Edison bulb lighting to achieve this rugged look. The walls are often left as bare brick or painted in shades of grey or black to emphasize the industrial theme. Using reclaimed wood for shelving or a sideboard adds a touch of warmth and history to the space. This design is perfect for those who love a bold and edgy home aesthetic.
26. Soft pastel dining room
A soft pastel dining room offers a light, cheerful, and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for a family-friendly home or a coastal cottage. You can use shades like mint green, pale pink, or sky blue for the walls, upholstery, and accessories to create a gentle and airy look. These colors pair beautifully with light-washed wood furniture and white accents, making the room feel bright and spacious even on cloudy days. Adding a few floral arrangements or a simple white rug can further enhance the fresh and pretty vibe of the space. It is a very relaxing design choice.
27. Velvet chair dining room
Incorporating velvet chairs into your dining room is a fantastic way to add a touch of luxury, comfort, and rich texture to the space. Velvet comes in a wide range of colors, from deep jewel tones like emerald and navy to soft neutrals like champagne and grey. The soft, plush fabric makes the chairs incredibly comfortable for long dinners and adds a sophisticated sheen to the room. You can pair these chairs with a simple wooden or glass table to let the fabric take center stage. This design choice instantly makes any dining room feel more high-end and inviting.
28. Neutral dining room
A neutral dining room focuses on a palette of beiges, creams, and greys to create a timeless and sophisticated space that never feels dated. This design relies on the use of different textures and materials, such as a linen tablecloth, a wool rug, and a wooden table, to add depth and interest. Neutral rooms feel calm and cohesive, providing a perfect backdrop for any type of dinnerware or centerpiece you choose to use. You can easily update the look of the room by swapping out small accessories or adding a pop of color with fresh flowers. It is very versatile.
29. Floral print dining room
Using floral prints in a dining room brings a sense of traditional Southern charm and a touch of nature's beauty into your home. You can incorporate flowers through patterned wallpaper, upholstered chairs, or even a set of botanical-themed curtains. To keep the room looking modern, try to balance the busy prints with solid-colored furniture and simple, clean lines. Floral designs can range from delicate and vintage-inspired to bold and contemporary, allowing you to find a style that fits your personality. This approach creates a room that feels lively, colorful, and always in bloom for your guests.
30. Sunroom dining room
A sunroom dining room is the ultimate space for enjoying bright, light-filled meals while feeling completely surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors. This design typically features walls made almost entirely of glass, allowing for panoramic views of your yard or the surrounding landscape. You can use lightweight furniture like wicker or rattan to keep the space feeling airy and casual, perfect for morning coffee or a relaxed lunch. Adding sheer blinds or curtains can help to control the light and heat during the sunniest parts of the day. This room truly captures the bright, sunny essence of Savannah living.
Conclusion:
Creating a Savannah-inspired dining room is all about blending the city's rich historical roots with a sense of modern comfort and coastal ease. Whether you choose to lean into the grandeur of a formal setting or the relaxed vibe of a sun-drenched sunroom, the goal is always the same: to create a space that fosters connection and hospitality. By using natural materials, thoughtful color palettes, and a mix of old and new pieces, you can design a room that feels uniquely yours. We hope these thirty ideas have provided the inspiration you need to transform your dining area into a beautiful Southern haven.
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