At first blush, the term “formal dining room” can be enough to make anyone feel bored—and like they aren’t allowed to touch or sit on anything in the room. That said, our pro contributor and interior designer Dee Murphy is back on the blog with us today to change that perception… If you’ve ever had to tackle Project Formal Dining Room in your own home, but still have the hankering to make it fun at the same time, then you’ll want to study up on these tips. Take it away, Dee!

Some say formal dining rooms are a thing of the past… but I say bring on the formality, mixed in with some fun, for a space that your family can eat in and enjoy every day!

I live in a 1920s town home that is “sectioned off” in a style that is typical of that era. No open floor plan here!And because it is a historical home, I can't knock down walls to make space for a “casual,” eat-in area.But… I actually love that we have a designated, formal spot to gather. It reminds me of my childhood, when we had dinner together every evening. Casual dining can sometimes make it easy to skip out on this precious, often rare “togetherness” that we really need right now in this digital age! If you have a formal dining room, (or you want one)… here are a few tips to make it a magical mix of “fancy-pants,” but whimsical and welcoming too.

1. Add vintage pieces.

The beautiful thing about vintage furniture, is that because it has that “lived-in” vibe, it comes with a “built-in” warmth that shiny new pieces often lack. They tell a story… and that story can continue with you… over dinner!

2. Hang meaningful artwork and/or photography.

Art and photography that speaks to the family, their history, their vacations, etc. becomes a conversation starter and makes connections between the people and the room itself. I like to choose something with meaning, and that doesn’t come across as too stuffy, to keep the room light and fun.

3. Bring the outside in with plants.

Plants make any space feel like a garden party… which in and of itself feels casual and fun. Who doesn’t love a summertime soirée surrounded by trees and flowers? Mix these pieces above with a drop dead gorgeous table and modern lighting and you’re ready to jump from easygoing to full-on glamour with just a switch of tableware!

Are you as in love with Dee’s whimsical “formal” dining room as we are?

It’s just proof that fun and fancy CAN, in fact, exist in the same space… For more interior design inspiration and dining room design tips and tricks, visit our Interiors page on the blog.

And don’t forget to show Dee Murphy some love by following her on Instagram and visiting her website!

Xx Team GM

Photos: Zeke Ruelas for Murphy Deesign