Glass dining tables are a gorgeous way to add modern elegance to your dining space. With their gleaming, sleek tops, glass tables instantly become focal points. But their transparent design also presents a decorating challenge. How do you showcase a beautiful tabletop when you can see right through it?
The key is to decorate your glass dining table in ways that enhance, rather than compete with, the transparent surface. Use cool tones, sleek textures, and clean lines in your accents. Then punch things up with warmth, color and softness in the details. We’ve gathered 10 easy tips for styling your glass dining table with refined elegance.
Choose the Right Table Base
The legs and base you select for your glass dining table will influence its overall style. Sleek metal legs in stainless steel, brass or chrome have a very modern feel. Thick square wooden legs create a traditional farmhouse vibe. Curvy glass legs look refined and streamlined.
Match your dining room decor when choosing a base. Rustic wooden legs balance the modernity of a glass surface. Glass legs complement contemporary rooms. Just make sure the scale and design fit the tabletop proportions.
Add a Table Runner for Color and Texture
Placing a table runner along your glass dining table is a quick way to define the space. Runners add color, texture and softness. Cotton or linen runners with ikat or abstract prints look chic. Jute and leather runners create a rustic contrast. Try different placements too – center, offset, double runners.
Experiment with Creative Centerpieces
Your glass dining table’s centerpiece should create visual interest and highlight the transparent surface. Look for pieces with height, color and unique shapes. Some creative non-floral options include stacks of decorative boxes, glass canisters filled with shells or stones, succulent terrariums, or an eclectic tower of books and candles.
Floral arrangements look elegant on glass but choose sturdy blooms like roses or orchids that won’t shed. And consider spreading flowers across the table rather than clustering them.
Candles Set a Mood
Candles are another excellent way to decorate a glass dining table. Cluster pillar candles in mercury glass vases for height. Float tealights in glass bowls filled with sea glass. Arrange tapers in an asymmetric line across the table. Just take safety precautions – never leave burning candles unattended.
Use Chargers for Added Color
Charger plates create an instant pop of color underneath regular dinner plates. Chargers in bold hues or metallic shimmers contrast beautifully against a transparent tabletop. Overlap chargers in a creative pattern or angle them diagonally. Mixing metals like copper and gold adds glamorous depth.
Play with Textures and Layers via Napkins
Napkins might seem like an afterthought, but they’re an easy way to layer color and texture on a glass table. Bold cloth napkins with striped or floral patterns complement the sleek tabletop. For a casual vibe, try cotton napkins in a fun color. Or experiment with different napkin folds like peaks or coils.
Fresh or Faux Flowers/Plants
Greenery is a great way to bring life and softness to your glass dining table. A bouquet of pink peonies or textured eucalyptus runners adds organic beauty. Or place small potted plants like herbs or succulents at each place setting. If you don’t have a green thumb, faux plants and flowers work too.
DIY vs Store Bought Options
You don’t need a big budget to decorate your glass dining table. Fill glass vases with scouring pads spray-painted gold for quick metallic accents. Float fruit slices or edible flowers in bowls of water for organic charm. Or keep an eye out for inexpensive glassware, vases and candleholders to mix and match.
The Finishing Touches
Final details like coasters, place card holders, and serving pieces give your glass dining table added flair. Opt for pieces that complement the modern tabletop like geometric patterned trays, sleek menu holders and sculptural glass bowls. Seasonal touches like pinecones or oranges add warmth.
Change It Up
One benefit of glass tables? They serve as a blank slate for different looks. Change your tablescape with the seasons or for special events. Pack away accents you’re not using so it’s easy to swap decor. With a little creativity, your glass dining table can transform for any occasion.
Glass dining tables lend contemporary elegance to dining rooms, but styling their invisible surfaces requires creativity. Use cool tones and sleek textures contrasted with warm metals, greenery and candles. Runner placements, chargers and napkins add color and dimension. DIY and seasonal touches add personality. With the right accents, your glass dining table will become a stylish centerpiece.
So embrace the transparency and get inspired decorating your glass table uniquely. With a mix of styles and colors, you can create a stunning yet inviting tablescape.