Choosing the right color for your dining room can have a big impact on the atmosphere and ambiance of the space. The color palette you select can affect everything from appetite to mood. When decorated skillfully, the dining room should invite people in, whet appetites, and encourage lively conversation. So what is the most appetizing color for a dining room?
How Color Affects Appetite
Color psychology has a significant effect on dining rooms. The colors you choose can stimulate hunger and enhance the taste of food or have the opposite effect, suppressing appetite. Warm and bright colors tend to energize and stimulate the senses, which can boost appetite. Cooler hues tend to have a calming effect which may reduce hunger. Here’s a look at how different colors can influence appetite:
| Color | Effect on Appetite |
|---|---|
| Red | Stimulating, increases appetite |
| Orange | Simulates appetite and conversation |
| Yellow | Cheerful, uplifting, stimulating |
| Green | Balanced, moderately stimulating |
| Blue | Suppresses appetite |
| Purple | Regal, decadent, may increase appetite |
Research has shown that red and orange are the colors most likely to stimulate appetite. Yellow also provides a cheerful, uplifting ambiance. Green has a balancing effect. While blue is known to be an appetite suppressant, a dash of blue can provide a calming influence. Vibrant purple hues lend a dramatic, regal air.
Popular Dining Room Color Schemes
When selecting a dining room color palette, you’ll want hues that whet the appetite while also creating an uplifting space conducive to hosting and entertaining. Here are some lively, appetizing dining room color schemes to consider:
Warm Neutrals
Warm neutral tones like beige, tan, cream and light brown have an appetizing effect, especially when contrasted with wood furnishings and accents. To keep the look from becoming too muted, add pops of red, yellow or green via flowers, art or decorative accessories.
Red and Orange
A red or orange dining room is a bold choice sure to stimulate the appetite. For a cohesive look, use shades of the same color family on walls, upholstery and window treatments. Tone it down with neutral accents and flooring.
Yellow and Green
Energizing yellow pairs beautifully with the rejuvenating hue of green. Try a light green on the lower half of the walls with cheery yellow above. Or opt for yellow walls with green patterned curtains or upholstery.
Rich Jewel Tones
Deep gem-inspired colors like emerald, sapphire and ruby create an elegant, upscale ambiance. Use one shade on the walls and accent with lighter tones of the same color. Keep flooring and furnishings neutral.
Vintage Color Schemes
Nostalgic color combos like peach and blue or sage green and mauve are back in style. These soft retro color schemes provide a cozy, welcoming backdrop.
Factors to Consider
While appetite-boosting red and orange may seem like obvious dining room color choices, there are a few factors to consider that can impact your decision:
Room Size
Bold red or orange paint can overwhelm a small dining space. If your dining room is on the petite side, stick to lighter shades like peach, yellow or light green.
Lighting
The existing lighting in your dining room impacts how paint colors will look. North-facing rooms with minimal natural light take on a cooler tone. South-facing rooms awash in sunlight appear warmer. Visit the dining room at different times of day before selecting a color.
Furnishings
Coordinate your color scheme with existing furnishings like rug, draperies and cabinets for a cohesive look. If the furnishings are dark or neutral, vibrant paint colors will stand out. With light wood furnishings, consider soft creamy neutrals.
Personal Taste
While red may whet the appetite, if you don’t like the look of a red dining room, by all means choose a color you find pleasing. The most important thing is selecting a palette you’ll enjoy being surrounded by during mealtimes.
Tips for Using Appetizing Colors
Here are some tips for effectively using appetizing colors in your dining room decor:
- Use warmer reds, oranges and yellows on feature walls or mini-murals behind the table or buffet.
- Paint the ceiling a stimulating warm tone and keep other walls neutral.
- Bring in pops of red or orange via floral centerpieces, placemats or accent lighting.
- Use two colors from the same family, like light and dark orange or muted and saturated red.
- Ground vibrant walls with neutral flooring and window treatments.
- Accent appetizing paint colors with wood and black finishes for contrast.
Most Appetizing Dining Room Colors
So what’s the consensus on the most appetizing dining room colors? Here are some flattering paint colors for stimulating the appetite in your dining space:
Red
From bright cherry red to muted brick or terra cotta, red is a bold choice sure to get stomachs rumbling. Use it strategically on an accent wall or mini-mural.
Orange
Whether a vivid tangerine or muted pumpkin shade, orange evokes warmth and gets conversations flowing. Use shades like peach, coral and salmon for a subtler effect.
Yellow
Cheerful, friendly yellow creates an upbeat space. Opt for bright lemon, goldenrod or mustard shades to stimulate appetites.
Green
Green is thought to have balancing, restoring effects. Sage, mint and olive green hues are lively without being overwhelming.
Purple
Regal purple adds a touch of drama and elegance. Deep eggplant or wine shades have an appetizing appeal.
Creative Uses of Color
Have fun with color when decorating your dining room. Here are some creative ways to use appetizing hues:
- Paint a wall mural with food, fruit or wine motifs
- Use two-tone colors on walls divided horizontally
- Paint interior window shutters a bright, contrasting color
- Display vibrant pottery, serving pieces or glassware
- Choose patterned fabrics like floral prints or colored stripes
- Incorporate appetizing colors through lighting fixtures or lamps
Conclusion
When decorating your dining room, think beyond basic beige. Vibrant, appetizing colors can take your dining experience to the next level. Opt for stimulating yet cohesive shades like crimson red, tangerine orange, golden yellow, olive green or deep purple. Consider the size of your space, existing furnishings and lighting when selecting a palette. Most importantly, choose colors you find beautiful and uplifting. Your dining room’s color scheme can enhance the taste of meals and the making of memories for years to come.
