Budget Challenge - Dining Room
*image from Rejuvenation.com*
It happens frequently. You are scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram, looking for inspo for your dream space (in this case, a dining room). You find one image and your jaw drops. You LOVE the decor, the style, everything about the image is SO you. But then it hits you, of course it is beautiful - it probably costs tens of thousands of dollars to recreate that look in your own home.
Well pick your jaw up, because today I am showing you how to recreate this look at a much more accessible price point. I pride myself in sourcing furniture that works within my clients' budgets. These chairs, while absolutely beautiful, are priced at $429 EACH. For some that is attainable and I am not throwing any shade at that demographic. But for majority of people, paying $429 on one dining chair is not realistic. Assuming there are 8 chairs for this massive table, I'm going to share how to get this look for less than what the chairs alone in this photo, would cost.
With $3432 as my budget (based on 8 chairs at $429 ea) I set out to recreate the look with more budget friendly furnishings. I tried to keep things similar, so I also sourced a large table that could seat up to 8 people and a large rug to ground the space.
Here is what I propose:
*please note that some of the products shown above contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commision when you make a purchase (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for supporting Dwelling Roots Design in this way!
My Process:
I started with the chairs first. I knew that to keep this under budget, I would have to get the price of chairs down to less than half the cost of the original ones. Fortunately, I found these at CB2 and actually love the contrast between the black frame and lighter cane color.
Next was sourcing a rug that was similar in tones. When I need large rugs at a great price point, I go to RugsUSA.com first. They often have great sales and their selection is incredible and seemingly limitless - without overwhelming. I also recommend taking advantage of their sorting and filtering features to narrow down the selection.
I searched for the table next - I needed something large and while I dabbled in some options with a more mid-century modern shape and feel (like the inspo image above) I ultimately was drawn to the more rustic one selected. The black chunky legs work well with the chairs and I love the warmth and texture that the top brings.
From there, I pulled options for the light fixture. I needed something big and impactful, and the ones I selected from Amazon are just that. At nearly 2' in diameter, I know they would be a great statement piece in the dining room when mounted over the table.
When I saw the sideboard/buffet table I slowwwwwed down. I really love that piece! Was it too matchy-matchy? Would it take away from the chairs? Ultimately I said "no" to all my second guessing. It's a beautiful piece, the scale works well for this space, and it ties in nicely to the other selections. And did I mention the price was right?
Lastly I rounded up some small accessories to tie the space together. I noticed a mirror in the background of the inspo image so I pulled something with some texture and warmth that ties back to the table. The runner and napkins were added to tie in with the beautiful tones of the rug and brighten up the space.
So let's see how I did, pricing break-down:
8 chairs ($179 each) - $1432
1 large table runner - $64
1 large table - $600
1 rug 9' x 12' - $382
1 mirror - $120
1 sideboard - $330
8 napkins ($4.50 for 2) - $18
2 bronze pendants ($243 ea) - $486
For a grand total of: $3432*
*(creepily) I didn't think it would actually come out to my exact budget number! So for the price of the 8 chairs in the first image, I am able to get a similar, beautiful (if I might add) look for a large full dining room.
i'd love to hear what you think about this budget challenge in the comments below!
So tell me...
Do you have countless inspo images saved on your pinterest boards for that one room in your home? Don't know where to start? Let me help you by developing a concept for the space and selecting furniture in your price range, no matter your budget. I work virtually with folks nationwide or in-person for those locally in the Greater Philadelphia area.