A dining room with a high window is a beautiful feature that can be both challenging and rewarding to design. The soaring height allows for an abundance of natural light, but it also presents a unique opportunity to create a sense of grandeur and drama. To help you make the most of this architectural feature, we’ve compiled a list of 21 design ideas that will transform your dining room into a stunning and functional space.
Drape the Window with Floor-Length Curtains
Floor-length curtains are a classic way to frame a high window and add elegance to the room. Consider opting for luxurious velvet or silk fabrics in rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red. These colors complement the natural light streaming in and create a warm, inviting ambiance. In the US, incorporating natural textures like linen or cotton in earthy tones is becoming increasingly popular for a more casual, yet refined look. In Europe, heavier velvet curtains are still a favored choice, especially in traditional or contemporary dining rooms.
Embrace Maximalist Design
A high window can handle bold and intricate designs, making it the perfect canvas for maximalist decor. Consider incorporating wallpaper with vibrant patterns, rich textures, and opulent details. You can mix and match different patterns and colors to create a visually stimulating and eclectic space. In the US, maximalist designs are enjoying a resurgence, especially in younger generations who are looking to personalize their spaces. In Europe, the trend towards maximalism is more pronounced in countries like Italy and Spain, where a love for ornate details and vibrant colors is ingrained in the culture.
Create a Gallery Wall
Turn the wall surrounding the high window into an art gallery. Display a collection of paintings, photographs, or prints that complement the dining room’s style and color scheme. You can arrange the artwork in a symmetrical grid or create a more organic and eclectic arrangement. In the US, gallery walls are particularly popular in modern and contemporary homes, with a focus on minimalist frames and graphic artwork. In Europe, more traditional art pieces like landscapes and still lifes are often incorporated into gallery walls, reflecting a preference for classic aesthetics.
Hang a Statement Chandelier
A high window provides the perfect opportunity to showcase a statement chandelier. Choose a chandelier with a dramatic design, like a cascading crystal chandelier, a geometric pendant light, or a rustic wrought iron chandelier. The chandelier should complement the room’s style and provide ample lighting for both the dining table and the window area. In the US, bold and contemporary chandeliers are gaining popularity, reflecting the trend towards minimalist and modern interiors. In Europe, traditional chandeliers with intricate details and a focus on craftsmanship remain a popular choice, especially in classical and romantic dining rooms.
Paint the Ceiling a Dark Color
Painting the ceiling a dark color like navy, charcoal, or hunter green can create a sense of depth and sophistication. The dark ceiling will contrast beautifully with the bright white walls and highlight the high window. This dramatic effect is particularly well-suited to formal dining rooms with a modern or contemporary style. In the US, dark ceilings are becoming increasingly popular in modern and minimalist homes, where they add a touch of drama and sophistication. In Europe, dark ceilings are more common in traditional and historical homes, reflecting a preference for classic and elegant designs.
Install a Large Mirror
A large mirror positioned across from the high window will reflect the natural light, making the room feel even brighter and more spacious. The mirror can also create the illusion of a larger window, enhancing the room’s grandeur. Choose a mirror with a simple or ornate frame that complements the room’s style. In the US, mirrors with minimalist frames and a focus on functionality are gaining popularity in modern and contemporary homes. In Europe, more traditional mirrors with ornate frames and intricate designs are still favored, reflecting a preference for classic and elegant aesthetics.
Use a Bold Wallpaper
A high window is an excellent opportunity to showcase bold wallpaper. Choose a pattern that complements the room’s style and color scheme. You can opt for a geometric print, a floral motif, or a textured design. The wallpaper will create a focal point and add visual interest to the room. In the US, geometric and abstract wallpapers are becoming increasingly popular, reflecting the trend towards modern and minimalist interiors. In Europe, floral and botanical wallpapers are still favored, especially in traditional and romantic dining rooms.
Add a Touch of Greenery
Plants can bring life and vibrancy to any space, and a dining room with a high window is no exception. Choose plants that thrive in bright, indirect light, such as ferns, succulents, or snake plants. You can place them on the windowsill, on shelves, or in hanging baskets. In the US, the trend towards bringing nature indoors is strong, with plants becoming a popular design element in homes. In Europe, a love for greenery is deeply ingrained in the culture, with many homes featuring indoor plants and gardens.
Integrate Natural Elements
Incorporate natural elements into your design to enhance the connection with the outdoors. Choose furniture made from natural materials like wood, rattan, or stone. You can also incorporate natural textures into your decor, such as woven baskets, linen tablecloths, or wool rugs. In the US, incorporating natural elements is a popular trend, especially in coastal and farmhouse styles. In Europe, natural materials are also widely used, with a focus on sustainability and craftsmanship.
Create a Focal Point with Artwork
A high window provides the perfect opportunity to display a large piece of artwork. Choose a painting, photograph, or sculpture that complements the room’s style and color scheme. You can hang the artwork directly above the window or place it on a pedestal or easel. In the US, large-scale artwork is becoming increasingly popular, especially in modern and contemporary homes. In Europe, the focus is often on curated collections of smaller artwork, reflecting a preference for traditional and elegant designs.
Paint the Window Trim a Different Color
Painting the window trim a different color from the walls can create a subtle yet striking visual effect. Choose a color that complements the room’s color scheme and enhances the architectural details of the window. For a classic look, opt for a white or cream trim. For a more contemporary feel, try a bold color like black or navy. In the US, painting window trim a contrasting color is a common practice, especially in traditional and farmhouse styles. In Europe, this technique is often used in historical homes to highlight architectural details and enhance the character of the space.
Use a Statement Lighting Fixture
A statement lighting fixture can be the perfect way to draw attention to the high window. Choose a chandelier, pendant light, or sconces with a dramatic design. The lighting fixture should complement the room’s style and provide adequate illumination for the space. In the US, minimalist and contemporary lighting fixtures are becoming increasingly popular, reflecting the trend towards sleek and modern designs. In Europe, more traditional lighting fixtures with intricate details and a focus on craftsmanship are still favored, especially in classical and romantic dining rooms.
Install a Skylight
A skylight can flood the dining room with even more natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The skylight can be positioned above the high window or in another part of the room. Consider using a skylight with a frosted glass panel to diffuse the sunlight and prevent glare. In the US, skylights are becoming more popular in modern and contemporary homes, especially in regions with abundant sunlight. In Europe, skylights are more common in historical homes and buildings, where they provide natural light to attics and other high-ceilinged spaces.
Add a Bay Window
A bay window can add a charming and inviting element to the dining room. The bay window can be positioned below the high window, creating a cozy nook for seating or a display of plants. In the US, bay windows are often featured in traditional and farmhouse styles, adding a touch of warmth and charm to the home. In Europe, bay windows are more common in historical buildings, reflecting a preference for architectural details and a connection to the past.
Consider a Window Seat
A window seat can create a cozy and inviting space in the dining room. The window seat can be built-in or freestanding and can be upholstered in a comfortable fabric that complements the room’s decor. In the US, window seats are becoming increasingly popular in modern and contemporary homes, especially in kitchens and dining rooms. In Europe, window seats are more common in traditional homes, reflecting a preference for cozy and intimate spaces.
Utilize a Stained Glass Window
For a truly unique and captivating feature, consider incorporating a stained glass window. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of stained glass can add a touch of whimsy and beauty to the room. The stained glass window can be positioned above the high window or in another part of the room. In the US, stained glass windows are becoming more popular in modern and contemporary homes, especially in kitchens and dining rooms. In Europe, stained glass is a traditional art form, with many historical buildings featuring beautiful stained glass windows.
Opt for a Curved Design
A curved window design can create a unique and eye-catching focal point in the dining room. The curve can be subtle or pronounced, depending on the desired effect. The curved window can be framed with curtains, shutters, or a combination of both. In the US, curved window designs are often seen in modern and contemporary homes, reflecting a preference for bold and innovative architecture. In Europe, curved window designs are more common in historical buildings, reflecting a preference for traditional and elegant architecture.
Embrace the Scandinavian Aesthetic
The Scandinavian aesthetic is characterized by simplicity, functionality, and natural materials. In a dining room with a high window, this style can be achieved by using light and airy colors, such as white, cream, and beige. Natural wood furniture and accents, such as woven baskets and linen textiles, add warmth and texture. In the US, the Scandinavian aesthetic is a popular choice for modern and contemporary homes, especially in urban areas. In Europe, the Scandinavian aesthetic is deeply rooted in the culture of Scandinavian countries, with a focus on simplicity, functionality, and sustainability.
