From special occasions to casual weeknights, your dining room is the perfect place to enjoy a home-cooked meal with family and friends – and the decor sets the tone for how you and your guests will feel when you gather around the table.
If your dining room needs a little makeover, let your local thrift store supply everything you need for a complete makeover. We turned to expert stylists and vintage dealers to learn how to shop second-hand and breathe new life into your dining room decor.
Eclectic seating
Thrift stores are full of one-of-a-kind items like individual dining chairs that would usually come in a set if purchased brand new. However, mixing and matching dining chairs can create a fun and unique atmosphere. “An eclectic collection of chairs is one of the best ways to give your dining room personality,” says Andi Jenkins, interior stylist and vintage dealer. “In achieving the eclectic look, ensure each chair shares a commonality in design, whether in style, shape, or materials used.”
Dining huts
A dining table and chairs are not the only pieces of furniture that you can incorporate into your dining room. “Every dining room needs storage space for dishes and serving pieces, so dining room doors are an absolute must,” says Jenkins. Buying a brand new dining shed can cost thousands, but in-store prices are much more affordable. “Previous generations often discard doors and cabinets in thrift stores, ripe for revival with a fresh coat of paint, stain, or decorative hardware” says Jenkins. A little elbow grease can go a long way and turn an inexpensive thrift store into the focal point of your dining room.
Cutlery sets
Transforming your dining room is all about the details, and you shouldn’t overlook silverware. “Silverware sets can be very expensive these days,” says Taylor Jochim-Smoot, vintage resource and design specialist and founder of Portland Revibe. “Fashionable brass and darker shiny silver are often not well made with fake coatings that fade and chip over time. Full quality and stylish silver sets can be had for much better value.” Chances are you’ll find unique designs and shapes that are completely different from the cookie cutter sets found at popular home retailers.
Illumination statement
The dining room is the perfect space to go all out when it comes to ceiling lighting. “The thrift store lighting section is a great place to find affordable, large-scale chandeliers and statement lighting above the dining table,” says Jenkins. “Just make sure a trained electrician or handyman checks and installs the device to ensure it’s safe.” Choose warm bulbs for a cozy feel, or use bright white to open up the room.
Baskets
If there’s one home decor item you can’t have too many of, it’s baskets. “Baskets are a great way to add character to any tabletop,” says Jochim-Smoot. “Pair them with linens to serve bread or hold napkins and other items on the table. Baskets abound at thrift stores.” For just a few dollars each, you can bring home a wide variety of baskets, so you can choose which ones to use for different occasions or holidays.
