Southerners have a way of honoring tradition, food, and comfort. When you mix this recipe for hospitality together, the result is some of the most exquisite dining rooms in the country. To create a welcoming dining space that dinner guests will love, you’ll want to incorporate a few essential elements. Beyond the essential large dining table, here are a few additional ideas to achieve the perfect dining room. By blending old-world style with modern ease, you’ll tap into a sense of Southern charm.
Layer Patterns and a Bold Color Palette
Maybe it’s the warm weather or the beautiful natural surroundings in the South, but designers here love a splash of color and a fun pattern. Dining rooms in Southern homes often feature wallpaper with botanical prints or scenic landscapes. Alternatively, you might opt for bright paint colors like light blue or yellow. To add some Southern flair to your dining room, we recommend starting with neutrals and adding pops of pattern and color where you see fit. Be careful not to overdo it—work gradually or consider consulting with one of our designers to achieve the perfect balance of color and pattern.
A Woven Element
Regardless of whether you’re working on a formal or modern design, incorporating elements of rattan, cane, or lattice adds instant charm. You might use cane dining chairs, woven rattan placemats, or even a simple Sweetgrass basket for bread rolls. These elements bring a sense of laid-back style, which Southerners love to weave into all of our designs. Reminiscent of porch furniture, they also link us to the beauty of the outdoors.
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China Cabinet
A china cabinet or breakfront is a staple in many Southern dining rooms. It’s not just this piece of furniture that is tied to Southern tradition, but what’s inside. Southerners have a deep attachment to family heirlooms, which often include inherited silver sets and china. Something in our hearts swells when we are able to display a family heirloom. While these special pieces may or may not be used frequently is beside the point. They make for a beautiful display.
Monogram
There is nothing more quintessentially Southern than a monogram. We love a personal touch on anything, especially if it’s embroidered or etched. If you see a monogrammed napkin or glass, you’ll immediately know that you are in a Southern home. If you spot a monogrammed napkin or glass, it’s a clear sign you’re in a Southern home. In a family room, the monogram should feature the first letter of the family’s last name rather than an individual’s three-letter monogram.
Hydrangeas
A Southerner’s favorite flower. The bigger the better. Pink, blue, or white, it doesn’t matter! We love that you only need two or three large stems of hydrangeas to create an entire bouquet. They also last a long time, especially if you store them in the refrigerator overnight.
Draperies
Whether you prefer patterned silk or sheer chiffon, some dramatic draperies can frame both traditional and modern dining spaces with an air of luxury. Given the Southern sun, it’s essential to have draperies that can protect you from the midday rays during lunch. Stop by our design center to browse through our large collection of drapery options.
Southern Dining Room Treasures at GDC Home
Traditional Southern dining rooms are characterized as being warm and welcoming, with bold colors and mixed patterns that have a collected-over-time feel. Whether you are just starting to design your dining room, or looking for the finishing touches, our three home stores in Charleston have all the dining room essentials you need. Now, prepare your chicken salad, pimento cheese, and sweet tea because your dining room is about to become the most popular place in town!
Shop the Look
Tuileries Garden Placemats – Set of 4
Juliska’s French-inspired, filigree placemat is sure to impress your guests. It’s truly a work of master workmanship with encircled weave pattern and a lovely backdrop to frame your place settings.
Burma Rattan Ice Box & Tongs
Nothing says “weekend getaway” like a bottle of wine in a beautifully crafted rattan ice box. 100% handmade and woven into tight, uniform bands for long-lasting quality.
