I finally updated our dining room, and the difference is night and day (see the before here). I swapped out our old chairs for a stunning set of French-style cane back dining chairs that instantly made the space feel lighter, brighter, and more refined. Their natural wood finish and elegant lines pair beautifully with my blue and white color scheme, tying in that relaxed, coastal charm I love.
To complete the look, I also added remote-controlled wireless wall sconces. So perfect with no hardwiring needed. They’re sleek, easy to install, and give off the perfect warm glow for evening dinners. The mix of classic French design and modern convenience really brought the room together. If you’re decorating with a coastal aesthetic and want simple upgrades that make a big visual impact, these two additions are worth considering.
DECOR SHOPPING LIST
To-Do List for a Nancy Meyers-Inspired Coastal Dining Room
1. Choose Elegant Dining Chairs
✔️ Look for cane back chairs in a light oak or distressed white finish
✔️ Keep the upholstery neutral, think ivory, flax linen, or soft white
✔️ Arrange them around a classic wood table, ideally in a natural or whitewashed tone
2. Layer in Soft Coastal Colors
✔️ Base palette: crisp white walls with subtle coastal blues and sandy beiges
✔️ Add blue-and-white striped or floral seat cushions or a nearby rug for pattern
✔️ Keep it airy and bright, nothing too heavy or saturated
3. Add Warm, Subtle Lighting
✔️ I chose these easy remote-controlled wireless wall sconces for a cozy dinner glow
✔️ Choose a classic shape with a linen or rattan-style shade
✔️ Supplement with a dimmable overhead fixture (wicker, beaded, or vintage-inspired)
4. Bring in Nancy Meyers Charm Through Styling
✔️ Add fresh white hydrangeas or eucalyptus in a big glass or ceramic vase
✔️ Use vintage-style tableware or simple white dishes with a coastal twist
✔️ Keep clutter minimal with just a few stacked cookbooks, a woven tray, or a bowl of lemons
5. Soften the Space with Natural Textures
✔️ A jute or sisal rug underfoot to ground the space
✔️ Add linen curtains, a woven bench, or a light rattan accent nearby
✔️ Mix in white ceramics or antique glass for a layered look
6. Final Touch: Coastal Art or Vintage Prints
✔️ Hang framed coastal landscapes, antique nautical maps, or blue-toned botanicals
✔️ Stick to wood, gold, or whitewashed frames to keep the look cohesive
My dining room is finally coming together, and I couldn’t be happier with how it feels. Classic, coastal, and with just the right amount of casual. The space centers around my new set of French-style cane back dining chairs that bring in soft elegance with their light wood finish and woven backs. They pair beautifully with the blue and white palette I’ve carried throughout the room, from the toile window treatments and a gallery of coastal art prints to my blue and white ginger jars.
Rattan also plays a key role in tying everything together. My Serena & Lily bar cart adds both function and warmth, acting as the perfect accent piece with its breezy, natural texture. To elevate the lighting, I added the remote-controlled wireless wall sconces in gold for a chohesive look with my gold and crystal chandelier. They give off a soft, ambient glow for ideal cozy dinners or early morning coffee. With layered neutrals, soft textures, and a few lived-in vintage touches, the room has that fresh, inviting feel you’d expect from a Nancy Meyers set, effortless but thoughtfully styled.
MY DINING ROOM SHOPPING LIST
