Eat, Drink and Be Merry: 4 Contemporary Dining Room Ideas for Your Bay Area Home

In today’s design-centric world, the modern dining room has evolved from being a mere space for consuming meals to an aesthetic arena where memorable conversations and bonding moments take place. To match the modern lifestyle, contemporary dining room ideas lean towards a blend of functionality and style. Central to this interior design journey are dining table and chairs. In this post, we’ll explore contemporary design styles and materials and the different ways to create a dining room design that resonates with your taste.

1. Materials Making a Statement

Rectangular glass top dining table with metal base and beige dining chairs.
Elite Modern Crystal Dining Set
  • Solid Wood: A timeless choice, solid wood dining tables and chairs offer durability and a natural look. From rustic oak to rich mahogany, the variety in wood types ensures there’s something for everyone. The grain patterns add a unique touch, ensuring that no two tables are alike.
  • Glass: A sleek glass dining table is the epitome of modern elegance. It makes the room appear larger by allowing light to pass through. Paired with stainless steel metal or wooden legs, it can be both chic and sturdy.
  • Marble: Nothing screams luxury like a marble dining room table. Apart from its opulence, it’s also resistant to heat and easy to clean. However, it can be weighty and needs periodic sealing to prevent stains.
  • Concrete: For those who prefer an industrial touch, concrete tables are in vogue. They’re not only durable but also add an earthy texture to the modern dining space.

2. Chairs that Charm

  • Upholstered Chairs: For those who value comfort, upholstered dining chairs are the way to go. They come in myriad fabrics and colors, making it easy to match with any interior theme.
  • Metal Chairs: Offering a minimalist and industrial vibe, metal chairs can be both rustic and polished. They’re durable, easy to clean, and often stackable – ideal extra seating for those who entertain with dinner parties often.
  • Plastic or Acrylic Chairs: Modern plastic chairs aren’t the flimsy ones of yesteryears. Today’s designs, often made from molded plastic or acrylic, are stylish with sleek lines, durable, and can suit various decors from Scandi-cool to ultra-modern.
  • Mixed Materials: Combining wood with metal or fabric with acrylic, mixed material chairs offer the best of both worlds. They bring in a unique character and versatility to the dining room.

3. Styles to Stir the Soul

Saloom Alton Dining Table Set
  • Minimalist: Less is more. Opt for clean lines, neutral colors, and unadorned furniture. Think of a sleek glass table with thin metal chairs or a simple wooden table with streamlined chairs.
  • Industrial: Think raw, unfinished textures for a modern look. A concrete table paired with metal chairs, or a rugged wooden table with iron-framed chairs can set the tone.
  • Scandinavian: Embrace simplicity, functionality, and a blend of textures, natural materials and straight lines. A pale wood table paired with upholstered chairs, or a blend of wooden and plastic chairs embodies the Nordic spirit.
  • Bohemian: A style that celebrates individuality. Mix and match different chair styles or play with colorful upholstered chairs around a wooden or marble table.

4. Design Elements to Enhance the Dining Experience

dining room table that uses wood and modern decorations

  • Centerpieces: Depending on the season or occasion, centerpieces can be a great way to add character. Fresh flowers, candles, or even a collection of curios can set the mood.
  • Lighting: A statement chandelier or pendant lights can enhance the ambiance and serve as a focal point. For a more contemporary look, geometric or minimalist light fixtures work wonders.
  • Rugs: Anchor your dining space with a rug. Not only does it add warmth, but it also helps in demarcating the dining area, especially in open concept homes.
  • Wall Art: Consider adding a piece of art or a mirror on the wall. While art adds personality, mirrors help make a small space look bigger and brighter.
  • Plants: A touch of green can elevate any space. From tall indoor plants in a corner to small potted ones on the table, they add life and vibrancy.

Shop Contemporary Dining Room Furniture at California Dining & Barstools

The dining room, in contemporary homes, reflects personal style and comfort. With myriad materials and designs available, creating a contemporary space that’s both functional and stylish is easier than ever. Whether you lean towards minimalist designs or prefer an eclectic mix, there’s something for everyone in the world of contemporary dining room furniture. Remember, it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating memories over meals, in a dining space that feels uniquely ‘you’. Visit our two Bay Area showrooms in Sunnyvale and Pleasant Hill to shop our wide selection of dining tables, chairs, dinettes, barstools and pub tables in different styles.