How would you update this dated dining room without a full remodel?
Hi everyone! My husband and I just bought a home and I’m feeling a little torn on what direction to take this dining room.
I’m planning to remove the existing wallpaper/wall covering, but I’m not sure what to do after that. Should I remove it completely and just paint? Add a new wallpaper? Do some kind of wainscoting/paneling? Tile? Or maybe turn one side into a small bar/serving area?
I really love mid-century modern style, but I also naturally lean a little maximalist so I need to keep myself under wraps lol. I’m drawn to emerald green, moody colors, eccentric wallpaper, warm wood tones, and interesting statement pieces but I’m trying not to make the room feel chaotic.
We already bought the dining table and chairs pictured. The chair colors are: two cognac/orange, two navy blue, and two dark gray. The table is warm wood.
A few things I’m wondering:
What would you do with the lower half of the walls after removing the wallpaper?
Would an emerald green or patterned wallpaper work here, or would it fight with the wood tones/floors?
Should I keep the wood trim as-is, stain it darker, or paint it?
Would a small bar make sense in this room?
Any ideas for lighting, rug, curtains, or art to make it feel more intentional and mid-century modern and less dated?
I’d love any advice, especially ideas that keep the space warm and mid-century inspired without doing a full remodel. Thank you!