7 Dining Room Design Mistakes That Make Entertaining More Difficult

Bright Lighting and Loud Music

"Lighting and sound set the entire tone of the room," says luxury wedding and event planner Emily Coyne. "Use warm, indirect lamps and candlelight rather than harsh overhead bulbs." She recommends keeping music low enough to support (and not compete with) conversation. 

Interior designer Emily Henderson agrees, adding that tall taper candles are one of her go-tos on a table: “They also add height without taking up a lot of space.”

Oversized Centerpieces

When setting a table, Henderson opts for floral arrangements that are neither too tall nor overly bulky. “Large arrangements can be beautiful, but can make group conversations awkward as you have to peek around tall branches just to say hi to the person across from you,” she says. ”Go shorter, and use a cluster of great bud vases instead.”

Uncomfortable Chairs

“I’m a huge proponent of comfortable dining chairs,” says Henderson. While comfort may seem like an obvious priority, she notes that many dining chairs fall short. “The more comfortable the chair, the longer the fun conversation can last,” she adds. “I love a curved-back, upholstered dining chair.”

Poorly Fitted Tables

While a table should be scaled to the space, guests should still be able to move around it comfortably without feeling boxed in. “The dining table is the anchor of the room, so make sure that it’s wide enough to accommodate your guests without crowding plates or glassware,” says Coyne. “The right table depth gives guests room to settle in and makes the entire evening flow more easily.”

Out-of-Reach Serving Dishes

“A dining room works best when everything guests need is within reach,” says Coyne. “Keep beverages, extra glassware, and refills staged on a sideboard so the table stays uncluttered. For family-style service, use smaller platters that are easy to pass and portioned for four guests.”

Coyne adds that serving pieces can remain on the table, as long as there’s space and it feels intentional. “If you want them out, incorporate them into the décor from the start,” she advises. She recommends pre-setting the platters to ensure there’s enough open space for everything, with some room to spare. “That negative space is what keeps the experience calm, functional, and visually inviting.”

Cramped Layouts

While everyone may be sitting during dinner, it’s important that guests can move to and from the table with ease. Coyne recommends maintaining an open flow by removing anything that blocks sightlines or disrupts movement. “Avoid things that force guests to rearrange items, raise their voices, or lean around obstacles,” she says.

Skimping on Décor Details

When used thoughtfully, small décor details can bring the entire setting to life. In addition to candles and petite vases, Henderson likes to incorporate functional items like colorful glassware and pretty pitchers of water into the table layout.

Layered textiles, like linen napkins or runners, as well as patterned dinnerware, can also add texture and dimension. Unique objects, such as vintage salt and pepper containers or sculptural candlesticks, give the table an extra dose of flair and personality. And for a more formal seated dinner, consider hand-lettered place cards or a small favor at each setting.

Little touches will make guests feel welcomed the moment they sit down.