The Comeback of Formal Dining Rooms in 2023: Is It a Trend Worth Embracing?

Just a year ago, few would have anticipated the comeback of formal dining rooms. However, Etsy's insights indicate that a growing number of individuals are eager to establish a more traditional sit-down dining environment in 2023.

While interior design trends can be unpredictable, Etsy's predictions are grounded in consumer purchasing patterns, making them more likely to materialize. Yet, the idea of a formal dining resurgence raises some skepticism.

Our living spaces continue to transform, especially after recent years filled with uncertainty. More individuals are inclined to host intimate gatherings at home than ever before. Here’s what our editors have to say about the dining room trend for 2023.

Embracing Formal Dining

Millie Hurst, Section Editor, shares her thoughts: 'This year has seen a significant rise in a home aesthetic that blends maximalism with nostalgia. The “Grandmillennial” trend celebrates retro decor reminiscent of grandparents' homes, combined with modern touches like neon lighting. Thus, it's not surprising that this fondness for the past might influence our dining preferences—whether that means using formal dining rooms more frequently or simply opting to entertain at home more often.'

'Who wouldn’t enjoy elevating a simple pasta dish into a dining experience with elegant napkins, chargers, handwritten menus, and a charming tablecloth?' she adds.

Considering Formal Dining

Jennifer Ebert, Deputy Editor, expresses her mixed feelings: 'The revival of formal dining rooms is refreshing, but it's essential to design a space that serves more than just special occasions. What’s the point of having a room that sees little use? Every dining area should radiate warmth and reflect the homeowner's personality rather than become an empty space devoid of joy.'

'In smaller homes, a dining room must earn its place through thoughtful design. Incorporating storage solutions to hide away work and school clutter is vital if you’re prioritizing a formal dining room on your list,' Jen emphasizes.

Resisting Formal Dining

Not everyone shares enthusiasm for the reintroduction of traditional dining rooms. Lucy Searle, Global Editor in Chief, expresses her concerns: 'The notion of a formal dining room fills me with dread. While I enjoy entertaining and strive to create a beautiful dining atmosphere, my focus is always on ensuring my guests feel comfortable. After all, they are my closest friends, and we all work hard throughout the week. I prefer a relaxed setting with lovely napkins and soft candlelight, encouraging guests to switch seats between courses for better conversations. My priority lies in serving hearty, often self-service meals.'

'I've noticed that even what could be called 'formal dinners' have become much more relaxed since the pandemic,' Lucy reflects. 'While the dining settings are elegant, hosts are more inclined to foster a casual vibe now. I recently attended a delightful dinner with a renowned wallpaper and fabric brand at a stunning hotel during High Point Market, and it ended with karaoke. That’s about as informal as it gets!'

Lucy Searle has dedicated over 30 years to writing about interiors, properties, and gardens. Starting in women's magazine interiors departments, she transitioned to specialized titles in the mid-1990s. She served as Associate Editor for Ideal Home, one of Britain's oldest interiors magazines, before taking on the Global Editor in Chief role for Realhomes.com, expanding the site’s presence significantly. She now leads the editorial vision for a historic interiors magazine that has been shaping the industry for over a century. Lucy is also an avid renovator and property owner across the UK and Europe, bringing valuable experience to her editorial insights.

Are you ready to welcome a more formal dining room into your home? We’d love to hear your thoughts at info@trendiesfind.com.

Are Formal Dining Rooms Still Relevant?

While formal dining rooms may regain popularity, they are likely to look different than in the past. As friends and family gather for meals more frequently, having a dedicated space to enjoy meals without a television's distractions has become increasingly important. However, these spaces might not need to conform to traditional dining setups. Alternatives like kitchen island seating and banquet nooks are gaining traction, providing more casual dining options that still foster social interaction.

Is a Formal Dining Room a Waste of Space?

Although the popularity of formal dining rooms has waned, they are evolving into more useful spaces where friends and family can gather without distractions. For some, a formal dining room may feel underutilized if they don’t often host guests, especially if their kitchen is spacious enough to accommodate a conventional dining table and seating or a banquette.