Farmhouse dining room ideas – 18 styling tips for an elegantly rustic eating area

Talk to any designer and they'll agree a long wooden dining table, often showing the traces of time on its surface, is key to the farmhouse look. It's a piece of furniture associated with kitchens most of all, but modern farmhouse style is all about elevating this traditional rustic theme – which is why the dining room has become an important space for homeowners key to add am element of refinement to their eating arrangements.

There's still a homely feel to today's farmhouse dining room ideas because the look embraces the beauty and simplicity of nature – it's an authenticity that flows through farmhouse decor. 

'At its heart, farmhouse-inspired style is known for its deep love and appreciation for raw materials,' says Alex Whitecroft, Head of Design at I Want Wallpaper. That means lots of wood and stone in terms of structure (ceilings and walls) and furnishings (tables, chairs, rugs, etc.) From exposed brickwork and stone to warm reclaimed or unfinished woods, interiors have a simple, natural look and a warm and inviting appeal.'

In the dining room, the focus will be on the table and seating, of course. But everything from the lighting that illuminates your meal to the fireplace that invites you to linger once the plates have been cleared, all contribute to the ambience.

We've collected the ingredients to inspire your ultimate farmhouse dining room ideas. It's time to take your seat at the table… 

BY ANDREA CHILDS