Art deco dining room: how to bring the look home

Start with Art Deco proportions and symmetry

An Art Deco dining room works best when the layout feels balanced, polished and intentionally formal. Centre the table under the main pendant, keep circulation generous around the edges, and let furniture sit in clear, confident lines rather than scattered angles. The style is rooted in glamour, but it should still feel disciplined: symmetry, repetition and a strong focal point will make even a modest dining room feel more composed.

Choose a rich but controlled palette

Classic Art Deco colour schemes mix deep, dramatic tones with refined metallics and a few lighter notes for contrast. Think emerald green, midnight blue, charcoal, ivory and warm black, lifted by brass, chrome or mirrored surfaces. In a British home, this often looks especially good against pale plasterwork or townhouse mouldings, where darker tones can feel elegant rather than heavy. If you want a softer result, use warm neutrals on the walls and bring in drama through upholstery, artwork and accessories.

Use luxurious materials with a polished finish

Material choice is central to the look. High-gloss timber veneers, lacquered surfaces, marble, smoked glass and velvet all suit the style, especially when paired with crisp metal detailing. A dining table with a dark wood or marble top and slender brass accents feels suitably Deco without becoming theatrical. Keep finishes clean and reflective, but not shiny everywhere; a mix of matte paint, soft fabric and polished highlights gives the room depth and stops it feeling like a showroom.

Pick statement furniture that feels elegant, not bulky

An Art Deco dining table should feel substantial, often with a rectangular or oval top and a base that has visual presence. Dining chairs look best when they have curved backs, fluted detailing, channel stitching or upholstered seats in velvet or leather. Avoid overly rustic or overly casual pieces, as they dilute the mood. If space allows, a sideboard or drinks cabinet in walnut, ebony stain or lacquered finish adds useful storage while reinforcing the period feel. Keep the silhouette refined so the room reads as glamorous rather than crowded.

Finish with lighting and details that create the mood

Lighting is where the style really comes alive. Choose a pendant or chandelier with stepped forms, frosted glass, opal shades or a brass frame, and hang it so it sits low enough to anchor the table without blocking sightlines. Wall lights, mirrors and table lamps can add layers of glow for evening dinners. Complete the look with ribbed glass, geometric artwork, marble coasters, lacquered trays and a patterned rug with a fan, chevron or sunburst motif. In an Art Deco dining room, the final effect should feel curated, sumptuous and unmistakably polished.

Are you an architect or designer? Register for free! »