As I grow older, I’ve been more intentional with my home decor choices, and that usually means I take my time to make decisions. So, trust me, this makeover definitely did not happen overnight.

The dining room makeover has been a long time in the making, but I’m so pleased with how everything turned out.

The dining room is hands-down my favourite space in our home now.

Keep scrolling to see the dining room makeover before and after photos!

Related: Simple & Casual Blue And White Tablescapes

Before Dining Room Makeover

Six years ago, my interior style was more bohemian, so I wanted my dining room to have a vibrant, tropical vibe.

I loved using plants as decor, bringing in natural elements that added to the room’s airy feel.

To complement the bright and airy vibe I loved so much, I opted for a glass dining table and clear acrylic chairs, keeping the space light and uncluttered.

However, over time, I noticed that the elements started blending together, lacking the visual contrast I had hoped for.

A few years ago, I hung a tree-print artwork on the wall.

I thought it would add more character to the dining room, but the piece didn’t quite fit the tropical-bohemian vibe.

Not to mention, its size was too small for the wall, making it feel out of place.

Although the dining room didn’t look terrible, it never truly felt like me.

The space lacked a clear identity and felt disjointed.

It just didn’t align with the vision I had in mind, and despite the effort I put into decorating, it never clicked the way I wanted it to.

The room wasn’t cohesive or personal – it felt more like a collection of ideas rather than an intentional reflection of my style.

In the end, I just didn’t feel connected to the space, which made it hard to fully enjoy.

After Dining Room Makeover

After making a few thoughtful adjustments, the dining room finally feels like the space I had envisioned all along.

It now feels warm, cozy, and inviting, all of which perfectly aligns with my personal style at this stage of my life.

The room no longer feels forced; instead, it reflects a cohesive, intentional design that feels like me.

The transformation lies in the small but impactful details, which made all the difference.

In the next section, I’ll share the key elements behind this transformation, so you can see how minor tweaks can have a big impact.

Related: A Minimal And Classy Black And Gold Tablescape

Dining Room Decor Details

A Fresh Coat Of Paint

In 2022, I collaborated with Vasari to repaint the apartment using their limewash paint. We used Vasari’s Linen White for the dining room wall.

The moment I saw the new wall colour, it gave me the creative spark I needed to dive into a full dining room makeover.

I immediately thought the soft, textured finish of the limewash added so much depth to the space, making the room feel both moody and inviting at the same time.

The subtle warmth of Vasari’s Linen White created the perfect backdrop and set the tone for the entire dining room makeover.

Swap Out The Furniture

The next step in the makeover was swapping out the furniture.

I had been meaning to replace the acrylic chairs for a while — one had broke, and more importantly, they weren’t comfortable enough for long meals.

I know, I know, what was I thinking in the first place?!

Anyway, when I came across this set of white boucle chairs, I instantly fell in love.

Their soft, curved shape felt like the perfect contrast to the hard edges of my dining table, adding balance and visual interest to the space.

What also drew me to the chairs was their sleek and sophisticated black legs.

Since black naturally draws attention and gives the space a sense of focus, I’ve been wanting to introduce touches of black to the dining room.

These new chairs not only made the dining area more comfortable but also brought in the right mix of softness and structure.

That’s not all! Since I’ve always loved the charm of mismatched dining chairs, I wanted to carry that concept into the dining room makeover.

This time, I decided to pair the boucle chairs with natural rattan and wood armchairs.

The wood armchairs are my husband’s favourite. They’re made from real wood, so the beautiful natural grain stands out.

I love how these two chair styles complement each other: the softness of the boucle contrasts well with the rattan and wood textures.

Plus, both chairs are SO comfortable.

One thing’s for sure – I learned my lesson the hard way. So, it was very important to me that the dining area is as practical as it is stylish!

Related: 6 Surprising Things I Learned About Limewash Paint

Choose The Right Artwork

The hardest part of the dining room makeover was choosing the right artwork.

This time, I wanted something personal that truly resonated with me. Nothing generic or mass-produced!

Fortunately, I connected with a local artist, Carissa from Wildflower Culture, who offered to create a custom piece based on a story I wanted to express.

I immediately jumped on board. I’d be crazy to turn down a unique and meaningful piece of art!

I shared with her how I’ve been navigating grief over the past few years and how my love for the beach has been a source of comfort during that time.

She understood my vision perfectly and designed a piece called Beach Mornings to reflect those emotions.

This time, I also made sure the artwork was the right size and scale for the wall.

When the artwork arrived, it fit seamlessly into the room’s design.

Be Intentional With Decor

Sadly, all of my plants have died, but I still wanted a green element to bring life to the space.

I decided to invest in my first large faux plant, which fits perfectly in the corner of the dining room.

If you’re buying a faux plant, it’s essential to repot it.

Faux plants often come in small plastic containers that immediately give away their artificial nature.

I chose a larger decorative pot and filled the top with moss to create a more natural, realistic look.

You should also look out for the colour of the leaves and the texture of the branches. Avoid leaves that are bright green and branches that are too smooth.

When shopping for faux plants, I like to go for ones with small imperfections because they mimic the natural flaws of real plants, making them appear more lifelike.

Related: Simple & Casual Blue And White Tablescapes

Get The Look

There are so many beautiful ways to style a dining table, but these are my go-to picks: classic, versatile, and effortlessly modern.

Think clean lines, warm textures, and evergreen pieces that go well with every season and celebration.

1. Artificial olive leaf arrangement in ceramic pot // 2. White ceramic pitcher // 3. Boucle dining chairs // 4. Isaiah vase // 5. Aileen Fitzgerald artwork // 6. Acacia wood bowl // 7. Rattan utensil caddy // 8. Faux moss in gold bowl // 9. Rattan decorative tray // 10. Modern traditional taper holder // 11. Goulding woven bowl // 12. Barrel back cane dining armchair // 13. Faux olive tree with ceramic pot

The post Our Dining Room Makeover – Before & After Transformation! appeared first on That Isle Life.

Before we get started, I want to reassure all of you that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to create beautiful tablescapes.

If you’re like me, chances are you get overwhelmed too when you’re searching for tablescapes inspiration on Pinterest.

I don’t blame you. Everything looks so perfectly-styled and extravagant!

That’s why I’m sharing two versions of my blue and white tablescapes, so you can learn how to re-use and re-style what you already have.

Keep reading to discover 7 of my tried-and-tested spring tablescape tips.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that are at no additional cost to you. I may earn a small commission. Read the full privacy policy here.

Related: A Minimal And Classy Black And Gold Tablescape

Simple Blue And White Tablescapes – A Tropical Table Setting

Choose your colour palette

This was my first time attempting a blue and white tablescape.

A brand gave me a beautiful blue and white tablecloth, which was inspired by the tropical landscape in my hometown, Malaysia.

Look closely and you’ll find things that resonate with my heritage – a hornbill, coconut trees, a kampung house.

These prints are traditionally featured in vivid and bright colours, so it was refreshing to see that the designer had incorporated them in a chinoiserie blue and white porcelain colour palette.

The tablecloth is definitely the showstopper of this tablescape, so I decided to stick to the blue and white theme and keep everything else fairly neutral.

Keep things interesting with texture

Personally, I’m not a big fan of formal matching tablescapes, especially in my home.

It makes my guests feel awkward. Plus, I don’t want them to worry about tableware etiquette when they’re dining in my place!

When I host dinners, I want my guests to feel warm and relaxed. That’s why I often lean towards simple and casual tablescapes.

When it comes to putting together a tablescape, I like to incorporate different textures.

For this tablescape, I paired grey stoneware dining plates and bowls with ceramic chinoiserie cutleries, fluted drinking glasses, and marble coasters.

I also used woven napkin rings to add softness and a pop of colour to the blue and white tablescape.

To me, it’s the combination of various textures that make a tablescape interesting. It’s all about the details!

Mix and match your dinnerware

Buying tableware can be expensive.

And, getting a new set of tableware each time you want to create a new tablescape is not sustainable.

That’s why I only have three plain dinnerware sets that go with pretty much any colour, pattern, or theme.

With these dinnerware sets as my staples, I’ll usually mix and match them with other loose plates, drinkware, and servingware.

Can you believe I thrifted these gorgeous blue and white plates?

Yes, that’s right! Each plate costs less than $5!

What I love about blue and white tablescapes is that you can easily find affordable blue and white tableware.

Although they have different designs, the matching colours make the whole setup look cohesive.

Add a floral centerpiece

Centerpieces can truly make a statement to any tablescape, but they can also cost a lot of money.

Since I’m all about keeping things simple, my go-to centerpiece has always been a large floral arrangement.

This blue and white tablescape needed a pop of vibrant colour.

And, what’s better than a bouquet of fresh flowers and foliage?

Blue goes well with yellow and white, so I chose monstera leaves, ferns, white gerberas and green dendrobiums for a tropical touch.

Besides flowers, I love styling the dining table with elegant servingware.

Not only do they look great, but they’re actually functional.

For this tablescape, I’ve laid out a stoneware cake stand, mini wooden charcuterie boards, a two-tier dessert stand, and a glazed ceramic pumpkin ramekin.

Related: A Simple Mother’s Day Table Setting (Pastel Floral Theme!)

Simple Blue And White Tablescapes – A Casual Chic Table Setting

I’m one who believes in reusing all of my home decor items, so here’s another blue and white tablescape using the same tablecloth.

Pick a key piece to focus on

These cute pastel green drinking glasses were my inspiration for this tablescape.

Instead of keeping it purely blue and white like the previous tablescape, I decided to include more green, gold, and brown.

I knew this colour combination would make the glasses stand out.

Invest in the essentials and save on the extras

If you have the budget for only one dinnerware set, I recommend investing in an all-white set like this H&M porcelain plates.

You can’t go wrong with white dinner plates – they literally complement every tablescape!

I love these dining plates because the gold scalloped rims look so chic.

They’re certainly worth the investment because I’ve used them so many times and have gotten so many compliments on them.

However, you don’t have to splurge on every single thing for your tablescape.

My charger plates may look expensive, but they were a total steal because they’re made from plastic.

I also didn’t use any napkin rings for this look. I kept the linen napkins casual by tucking them under the dessert plates.

On top of that, I used my trusty 6-year-old faux fern as part of my centerpiece.

Using faux greenery or flowers is another way to stay within your budget, as you can always reuse them for future tablescapes.

Add height to your centerpiece

One way to elevate a tablescape is by adding height.

This makes the tablescapes look less flat and more visually appealing.

Besides a tall floral arrangement, you can opt for tall candleholders and tapered candles.

I’ve had these gold candle holders for years and they never fail to make my tablescape look classy and timeless.

Get the look

1. Blue and white toile tablecloth // 2. Porcelain plate with scallop rim // 3. Gold metal candle sticks // 4. Tortoise glass pitcher // 5. Gold beaded charger plates // 6. Stoneware oval platter // 7. Faux fig leaf branch // 8. 4-pack jute napkin rings // 9. Glass bowl with bead stem // 10. Stoneware blue and white glazed dining plate // 11. Woven vase // 12. Two-tiered marble server with brass frame

Which is your favourite tablescape? Let me know in the comments!

The post Simple & Casual Blue And White Tablescapes appeared first on That Isle Life.

Struggling to style your TV console in a way that looks great but still works for everyday life?

You’re not alone!

Balancing style and function can be tough, especially when there’s clutter from remotes, cables, and gaming consoles.

And, there’s the challenge of making your TV blend into your room instead of sticking out as a black box!

The good news?

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to style a TV console in six easy steps.

Plus, I’ll also share how to choose the right TV and TV stand for your space.

And how to select stylish yet practical decor for your TV console to put together a cohesive, polished look.

As a self-proclaimed couch potato, I’ve spent plenty of time in front of my TV and console.

So, I can confidently say that styling my TV stand with these 6 simple steps has made my living room more comfortable, functional, and beautiful than ever.

Keep scrolling to discover how you can decorate your own TV console!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that are at no additional cost to you. I may earn a small commission. Read the full privacy policy here.

How To Style A TV Console Under A TV

1. Start with a blank slate
2. Create balance by adding taller decorative items to both ends on the console
3. Be intentional with your decor (less is more!)
4. Conceal clutter in decorative storage bins or boxes
5. Group small accessories together on a tray or a catch-all bowl
6. Add greenery to soften hard lines and to inject a pop of color

Too busy to read the entire article? Make your TV look like a beautiful piece of framed art by investing in the Samsung Frame TV. It features high-resolution digital artwork, customizable bezels, and a sleek design that sits flush against the wall – just like a real picture frame. Best of all, you can change the artwork anytime to match your style!

Step 1 – Choose the right TV for your space

Chances are, you probably already have a TV, and that’s fine.

But, if you don’t or you’re planning to upgrade, you need to check out the Samsung Frame TV.

The Samsung Frame TV is a television that functions as a TV when it’s switched on and displays artwork or photos when not in use.

All you have to do is press the power button on its remote, and the artwork will fill the blank TV screen.

The TV itself looks like a picture frame, and you can choose the color and type of frame you like.

It’s perfect for disguising your TV as a piece of prized artwork!

Sadly, I don’t have a frame TV… but two years ago, I discovered a hack that allows me to display beautiful art on my TV.

All you have to do is type “vintage art tv” on Youtube, and you’ll find loads of art videos for your TV.

One thing to note – this hack is not energy-efficient, so it’s best to turn it on only when you have guests.

Too busy to search for beautiful TV art on Youtube? Check out my favs: Vintage Landscape Painting, Vintage Seascape Painting, Flower Garden Oil Painting, and Vintage Spring Paintings.

Step 2 – Decide on the right placement for your TV

Next, you’ll want to make sure you choose the right placement for your TV.

Don’t underestimate this step! Sometimes the simplest thing can make the biggest impact.

Whenever possible, do not place your TV facing any doors.

You don’t want the TV to be the first thing you see upon entering your home unless it’s beautiful (like the Samsung Frame TV!)

Once you’ve decided where to place your TV, you’ll need to consider if you want to mount it on the wall or place it on top of a TV console.

I highly recommend mounting your TV on the wall.

It just makes make the entire area look super sleek and clean.

Now, if you’re wondering if you should mount it on the center of the wall or keep it off-centered, my answer is: well, it depends!

Are you aiming for a symmetrical look in your home?

If you are, then you should mount your TV in the center of the wall.

But, if you have a modern or eclectic interior style, you can keep your TV off-centered.

The best way to balance asymmetry is by decorating around the TV so that the TV is not the main focus.

Whichever option you choose, remember to mount your TV at the right height. The most common mistake people make is mounting the TV too high. According to Apartment Therapy, the TV looks best mounted six to eight inches above a media console.

Related: How To Style Coffee Table Books Like A Pro (And Which Ones To Buy!)

Step 3 – Pick the right TV stand for your space

Once you’ve selected the TV and its placement, it’s time to select your media console or TV stand.

Built-in with a bookshelf

I’ve been seeing a lot of people building their TVs into their bookshelves, and I can see the appeal.

Tucking the TV into a bookshelf makes it look like it’s part of the decor, especially when the bookshelves are peppered with interesting trinkets.

Standalone console

If built-ins are not an option, the standalone console is for you.

Your TV may be out in the open, but that doesn’t mean the whole area has to look ugly!

Invest in a beautiful TV console that will elevate your living space.

Make sure to find one that has a hole in the back to allow cords to come out of the console and some closed storage so you can hide all of your other electronic devices.

Here are a few standalone console recommendations under $500:

1. 70″ Fluted TV Console with Faux Marble Top // 2. Extendable Minimalist TV Media Console // 3. Azorella Media Stand Oak Brown

Related: How To Style A China Cabinet In Six Easy Steps – Before and After Photos!

Step 4 – Conceal the “ugly stuff”

There’s nothing more annoying than looking at a bunch of tangled cords underneath your TV.

I should know, I lived with it for three years!

I finally bought a large water hyacinth basket last month to dump everything in. My only regret is not doing it sooner!

Cords, modems, and other bulky devices should be hidden from plain sight.

Don’t have a media console to conceal them?

Get creative and use baskets, crates, or pretty boxes if you have them.

Step 5 – Decorate around the TV

Don’t fret if your TV is out in the open. You can still make the area look beautiful if you decorate around the TV!

Create a gallery wall

This is by far the most popular decorating tip because it works!

Place your TV off-center and create a gallery wall around it.

Make sure to hang your frames above and around your TV so that your TV looks like it belongs on the wall.

The art around the TV will create visual interest, and the TV will no longer be the area’s main focus.

Have a hard time curating art? Check out these gallery wall art prints for less than $15:

• Modern gallery wall art prints
• Vintage rustic gallery wall art prints
• Botanical gallery wall art prints
• Neutral gallery wall art prints
• Boho gallery wall art prints

Paint the wall

Want your TV to blend in?

Try painting the wall behind it!

A dark wall works best, as it gives depth to a room.

You can even go the extra mile and add beadboard paneling to your dark wall.

The overall result is an accent wall that is beautiful AND practical.

Step 6 – Style the console

The final step to putting all the pieces together is to style the TV console.

I like to start with a blank slate so I can experiment with a few different options.

Create balance

The trick to styling any space is to create balance, and the best way to do that for a standalone console is by using symmetry.

Since I have a huge built-in cabinet on one side, I added some height to the other side of my console with a large picture frame.

Although the picture frame is still significantly smaller than the cabinet, they share the same rectangular shape.

I also added more decor items on the same side because I wanted this corner to carry the same visual weight as the cabinet.

Be intentional

Overdecorating is a real thing, people.

I’ve seen people crowd surfaces because they think it makes the area look better.

Newsflash: it doesn’t. It just looks like clutter!

Breathing room is so important when it comes to styling.

That’s why I usually work with six to eight pieces when it comes to styling a surface.

Being intentional with the pieces you display allows people to appreciate them more instead of simply glossing over them. Less is always more!

Besides that, I like using a combination of sizes from large vases and books to small candles and ornaments.

Using different sizes creates contrast and builds visual interest.

Group small accessories together

If you have a lot of smaller accessories, group them in threes.

Then, use a tray, books, or a basket to hold them together.

Trays are an excellent way to keep things organized.

They can also provide another layer of texture to the overall look.

Use greenery

Include greenery in your styling whenever possible.

Real and faux plants soften any hard lines and make any area look cozy.

Plus, they add warmth and a touch of color to a home.

They are one of my favorite things to decorate with, and I had to include them on my TV console!

What decor items should you put on a TV stand?

Functional TV console decor

1. 8″ Marble Bowl // 2. Stacked Linen Books // 3. Large Earthy Table Lamp with Whipstitch Shade // 4. 5-Wick Large Scalloped Brass Footed Candle // 5. Faux Potted Olive Houseplant // 6. Layered Brass Bookends // 7. Decorative Half Moon Marble Mantel Clock // 8. Modern Fluted Metal Decor Tray Brass Finish // 9. Call It Home – by Amber Lewis (Hardcover) // 10. Textured White Vase

I hope this post teaches you everything you need to know about how to style a TV console!

What is your favorite way to decorate a TV? Let me know in the comments below.

Related: How To Style Open Shelves In The Kitchen In 6 Easy Steps

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The post How To Style A TV Console In Six Easy Steps appeared first on That Isle Life.