Your dining room is a place to gather, enjoy a meal, and make long-lasting memories. If it feels like this space is starting to become outdated, there are plenty of ways you can bring it into the new decade. Whether it’s a new table, updated lighting, or other changes, you can easily give this room a new lease on life. Read on for a list of five easy ways to modernize your dining room and be sure to visit our expansive dining room furniture store in Alexandria for some inspiration and ideas.

1. Start with a New Table

The table is the focal point of any dining room, so update it in a modern style with new dining room tables. Look for a table with tapered legs or one with a sleek, understated silhouette. Dining room tables with a trestle base or one in a contemporary finish will instantly modernize your dining room without having to make too much effort.

2. Try a Bench

Today’s modern household is more comfortable and less formal than in days past. To modernize your dining room, consider switching out some of your traditional dining room chairs with a comfortable bench. Dining benches are great for accommodating lots of guests and they also create a more casual, comfortable look and feel in the dining room.

3. Upgrade Your Lighting

Lighting has a huge effect on how a room looks, so give your dining space an update with a new fixture. Switch old recessed can lights or builder-grade lighting with new, contemporary choices. A chandelier or pendant light with a unique shade will brighten up this space and give it that modern edge you’re looking for. Lighting is also a perfect way to highlight your dining room furniture and define the space.

4. Consider New Chair Styles

There’s nothing wrong with classic dining room chairs, but if you really want to modernize your dining room, a set of new chairs can make a major impact. Look for upholstered chairs or those with a mid-century modern inspired shape. Your dining room chairs don’t have to match perfectly. Feel free to mix up several different similar styles to give your dining room a modern, eclectic vibe. A parsons chair is a perfect combination of modern design paired with comfort thanks to its tall back, upholstered details, and an armless design.

5. Add Some Storage

Storage dining room furniture gives you the best of both worlds: unique style and functionality. Try a beautiful buffet with carved door fronts or a cabinet with clear glass door panels so you can show off your favorite décor. Dining room storage furniture makes displaying decorative items easy, and it’s also a perfect way to keep dinnerware, barware, and table linens together in one convenient place.