Decorating a bare dining room wall can seem daunting, but with a little creativity, it’s easy to make the space feel complete. Here are some quick answers to common questions about how to decorate large, empty dining room walls.
Should you hang art above the dining table?
Hanging a piece of art above the dining table is a great way to draw the eye and make the space feel finished. Make sure the art is large enough to adequately fill the wall space without getting lost. A good rule of thumb is for the art to be at least two-thirds the width of the table. Hang the art about 8-12 inches above the table so it feels connected to the furnishings below.
What if the wall feels too tall for one piece of art?
For very tall walls, consider hanging art in a vertical configuration to draw the eye up and make the ceiling feel higher. Gallery walls with multiple framed pieces can also help fill a large expanse of vertical space above a dining table.
Should you hang anything on the other dining room walls?
Absolutely! An artfully decorated dining room will have artwork on the other walls, not just above the table. Continue the theme from above the table throughout the space for a cohesive look. Just be careful not to clutter the walls too much or it may feel distracting while eating. Some well-placed art, mirrors, or floating shelves can give a nice balance.
What about large blank spaces without windows or doors?
Big, bare expanses of wall space can present a decorating challenge. Some ideas to fill and enhance large blank walls include:
| – Hanging tapestries or macrame wall hangings |
| – Installing some floating shelves arranged decoratively |
| – Creating a gallery photo wall with a collection of framed photos or art |
| – Placing a large console table against the wall with artful objects on top |
| – Adding wall-mounted sconces or pendant lights |
Should you use wallpaper or a bold color?
Sometimes a bare wall just needs some visual interest through pattern or color. Consider applying:
| – A luxurious wallpaper, like grasscloth or damask |
| – Textured paint for a subtle effect |
| – A bold, saturated paint color |
| – Faux architectural details like wainscoting or molding |
What about mirrors or other reflective surfaces?
Mirrors are wonderful dining room wall decor because they visually expand the space and reflect light. Try framing out a large mirror or doing symmetrical arrangement of a few identical mirrors for a collage effect. Other reflective surfaces like antique tin tiles, brass sheets, or stainless steel can also add character and shine.
Should you decorate with plates or other collectibles?
For dining rooms with a lot of open wall space, decorating with creatively displayed plates, bowls, or other dinnerware collections can make for fabulous visual interest. Ways to artfully display dining items include:
| – Plate racks |
| – Floating shelves |
| – Plate wall using plate hangers |
| – Shadowboxes with displayed silverware |
| – Antique cabinets showing glassware |
How can you incorporate greenery on a bare wall?
Bringing life to an empty dining room wall with lush greenery is a lovely idea. Options include:
| – Hanging plant wall using concealed planter boxes |
| – Vertical garden of small potted succulents or air plants |
| – Large potted palm, fiddle leaf fig tree, or other dramatic plant |
| – Moss art, like framed preserves or moss graffiti |
| – Large artistic arrangement of mounted dried or pressed botanicals |
How can lighting help decorate a blank wall?
Thoughtfully placed lighting on a bare dining room wall can add ambience and visual appeal. Ideas include:
| – Sconces |
| – Wall-mounted lanterns |
| – LED strip lighting |
| – Picture lights |
| – Wall-mounted candle fixtures |
Should you hang curtains or drapes on the wall?
Flowing fabric can help soften and fill an expanse of flat wall. Consider hanging:
| – Cafe curtains on decorative rods |
| – Sheer or lace curtains for delicate texture |
| – Dramatic floor-to-ceiling curtains |
| – Tapestry or embroidered fabric panels |
Conclusion
Decorating a large, blank dining room wall may seem challenging, but it also presents the opportunity to showcase your personal style. Bring visual interest through layered artwork, lighting, mirrors, collections, plants, and textiles. Keep the scale and arrangement clean to avoid clutter in this high-traffic space. Most importantly, allow the wall decor to enhance your dining experience by creating a welcoming environment to enjoy meals with loved ones.
