Best of … dining room decorating ideas

Contributed by Tim Brugger, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

As we slowly move toward Fall, our attention often shifts from outdoor dining and entertaining activities to the upcoming Holiday gatherings.

Now, I’m in no rush to end summer either but taking the time to plan ahead, particularly as it relates to dining room decorating ideas, can help ensure you’re prepared when friends and family arrive.

To help you get a jump start, here are the best dining room decoration ideas.

The lighting

Go for impact

The lighting you choose sets the tone for the rest of your dining room decorating ideas, so let’s make it a good one. As the name implies, Destination Lighting has a beautiful selection of lighting for your dining room. Actually, they have a wide assortment of lighting for your entire home and garden. But sticking with the dining area, pendant lights or a chandelier are perfect for most any home décor. Different shapes, sizes and colors allow you to be as traditional or nouveau-funky as you want.

The table

Opt for a trestle

Trestle tables make great dining room decorating ideas in large part because of their perfect symmetry between classic design and functionality. Take this Venetian Trestle Dining Table from Layla Grayce for example. On the one hand it’s shape conjures images of the nicest picnic table on earth. On the other, the intricate design and hand finishing appeals to those who want a touch of class this hosting season.

The accessories

Dress your table

If you’re not in the mood or the financial position to plunk down money for a new dining room table, finding the perfect runner is always a good option. The Tapestry Catalogue has a ton to choose from in addition to the Cornucopia Tapestry shown here. And at only $64, you’ll be hard pressed to find an item that can transform your dining room décor so quickly and inexpensively.

The floor

Choose versatile bamboo

For a more casual feel, and for much easier maintenance, Plaza Rugs has a number of floor coverings to accent most any dining room decorating ideas. This Bamboo area rug is perfect for the heavily used dining room and buffet style celebrations. A little dining accident? No problem; these are both stain resistant and washable.

The table linens

Theme for dining

Not all dining room decorating ideas need to entail large purchases, often it’s the smallest of items that result in the look and feel you’re after. For those with an itch for a Southwestern motif, a dozen or so of these Northern Exposure place mats will set the tone for the entire room. Sunland Home Décor also has napkins and other assorted table top goodies to round out your look.

The options

Another great table

As you may gather from the name, a Touch of Class is perfect for those that believe, as many do, the dining room is an area of the home that deserves a special touch. For elegance on a smaller scale, the Westland Gathering Table is great for compact dining areas, without sacrificing your decorating panache. And at less than half price, it will fit most decorating budgets too.