5 Dining Room Trends That Are Definitely on Their Way Out in 2026

Holiday hosting season is about to begin, which means spending a lot more time in the dining room. The goal is to create a space that feels cozy and welcoming, while also being elevated enough for special celebrations—but if any of these outdated dining room trends are currently standing in your way, don’t stress.

Our designers are here to share their predictions on what’s going to be in style next year, plus quick, low-cost ways to modernize before guests arrive.

Minimalist, Neutral Spaces

So far, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of bringing personality back into our homes—and the dining room is no exception. This means saying goodbye to all-beige palettes, and introducing richer hues like burgundy, chocolate brown, and olive green.

“All-white, minimalist dining rooms are out,” interior designer Barrett Oswald says. “Warmth and saturation are returning, and you can incorporate this by layering natural wood tones, moody hues, and textured accents.”

These small changes can make a big difference, but if you’re looking for an even bigger effect, interior designer Courtney Batten has just the thing.

“Color-drenched walls and tonal upholstery can create a sophisticated, intimate mood perfect for hosting,” she says.

The fastest (and most cost-effective) way to drench a dining room in color is through a new shade of paint, of course. But if you’re in a pinch, Batten and Oswald say some peel-and-stick wallpaper or a new area rug can help give a similar feel.

Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decor ideas, designer tips, and more!

Matching Furniture Sets

One of the biggest signs of an outdated living room is a matching set of furniture—and pros say the same policy applies in dining rooms, where eclectic-yet-curated collections will shine bright.

“Matching dining sets are fading,” Oswald says. “I recommend swapping perfectly coordinated tables and chairs for a mix of styles, finishes, and fabrics to create a more collected, character-rich look.”

Between shipping times and budgets being allocated towards gifting around this time of year, completely swapping out a furniture set might not be realistic. For an easier fix, Oswald suggests honing in on an accent chair or two, or reupholstering some of your seats in a new fabric for a quick refresh and more varied vibe.

All-Gold Hardware

Although brass and gold accents have been big over the past few years—especially in antique finishes—Batten says other metals are starting to see a resurgence, particularly in hardware around kitchens and dining areas.

“Chrome is making a return, and feels sleek and a little futuristic. I’m also using a lot of mixed metals in my projects for a curated and collected feel,” she says.

Luckily, hardware swaps are a quick and simple fix. Just remove your cabinet handles and switch them for similarly-sized pieces in a new metallic finish.

For a bigger splash, consider swapping out your chandelier or pendant light shade for a statement chrome piece to catch eyes and serve as a conversation starter.

Table Runners

The next outdated dining room trends our designers hope bid farewell to this holiday season starts with the base of every tablescape: the linens.

“Table runners became very popular, but don’t really do a dining room justice,” interior designer Chloe Judge says. “As we start to embrace elegant and extravagant styling, I can see tablecloths making a comeback to replace the typical table runner.”

As you’re searching for an on-trend tablecloth, Judge recommends keeping an eye out for tiered and ruffled edges to instantly add a layered, dimensional feel to the entire space.

Over-the-Top Centerpieces

Although 2026’s color palettes, fabrics, and table linens are leaning more towards opulence and a comforting take on maximalism, Judge says centerpieces are moving in the opposite direction.

Cluttered arrangements with extra bowls, trays, and excessive candles and foliage are on the way out, and a more pared-back, thoughtful approach is now key to a stylish holiday tablescape.

“Tapered candles on crafted candle holders, with fresh floral arrangements to match the season or occasion, are a very intentional way to decorate the dining room,” she says. “This approach allows a centerpiece to feel curated, rather than feeling like an afterthought—or a dust collector.”