Looking for inspiration for a contemporary coastal dining area? Today, I’m revealing our dining room transformation for the One Room Challenge! This area showcases a board and batten feature wall, brass chandelier, seaside-themed wall decor, white farmhouse table, and ebony dining chairs.
I can scarcely believe how swiftly the weeks have elapsed! We transformed this dining area from basic builder-style to designer flair with the help of budget-friendly decor, DIY endeavors, and several valuable additions. I will detail all the modifications today, but if you wish to explore further, here are the weekly articles:
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A Brief Retrospective

Do you recall this perspective? This was our dining space prior to the commencement of the One Room Challenge. I was eager to modify the blue accent wall, mismatched curtains, and farmhouse light fitting and could hardly wait to start!
Contemporary Coastal Dining Room Mood Board
Click to view my initial mood board for the dining area. As the weeks progressed, I made some adjustments to the design. For instance, I opted against hanging large artwork in the center of the wall. Considering the board and batten and chandelier, I felt it would appear overly cluttered.
Instead, I chose two smaller art pieces stacked on the left to create balance with the window on the right. Additionally, I replaced the wishbone chairs from my initial plan with these ebony dining chairs.

Contemporary Coastal Dining Room Unveiling
And without any more delay, here is the dining area reveal!

Can you believe this is the same area? It feels significantly more purposeful with the area rug, wall trim, and artwork. I also admire the neutral color scheme that can transition seamlessly and serve as a backdrop for seasonal decor.
Here’s a summary of the enhancements and projects that contributed to this dining area transformation!
1. Contemporary Coastal Dining Room Chandelier

Replacing the light fixture in this area made such a significant difference. Our former light (refer to the before image above) was a farmhouse drum pendant that was too small for the area. Moreover, the old light fixture
felt restrictive regarding the design aesthetic.
For our seaside dining room transformation, I selected Mitzi’s Tabitha chandelier. I particularly adore the brass finish and ribbed glass shades! This lighting fixture is both contemporary and timeless, making an impression while remaining light and airy. It serves as the jewelry of our dining area, and I can’t help but gaze at it!
2. Combination of Black Chairs and White Table

Next, I opted to retain our white farmhouse extendable dining table as it is robust and practical. Although it does convey a farmhouse ambiance with its turned wooden legs, it remains adaptable and timeless enough to complement any design theme.
Conversely, our former black dining chairs (refer to the above before image) were of inferior quality and unstable. The new black chairs in our dining area are Article’s Rus chairs! They are sturdy and exquisite. For additional information, you can click to view my complete review.
3. Board and Batten Feature Wall

The most significant alteration in this area was the incorporation of the board and batten feature wall. Explore that post for my inspiration, product details, and dimensions!
Related: Simple DIY Picture Frame Molding (Box Trim)
4. Neutral Wall Hue for a Coastal Dining Area

Additionally, I made a decision to alter the accent wall color, which used to be blue. I selected Classic Gray by Benjamin Moore, a soft and neutral beige. It provides just a slight contrast against the other white walls and adds warmth to the room.
5. Contemporary Coastal Dining Room Artwork

For the coastal dining room artwork, I selected digital pieces from Collection Prints: Sunrise by the Sea I and Waves II. I opted for the Granby Frame in gold and the Derby Frame in wheat from Frame It Easy! You can upload the digital art and choose your frame online.
6. DIY Vintage Stone Vase

Subsequently, the vintage stone vase is actually an affordable vase that I spray painted and “aged” to give it a retro appearance! I believe it contributes a rustic essence to the otherwise tidy and minimalist design.
7. Contemporary Coastal Wall Baskets

I discovered these braided wall baskets at Hobby Lobby, but here’s an alternate option! Hanging wall baskets is a wonderful approach to introduce texture and appeal to a spacious wall, and the circular form aids in breaking up all the sleek lines.
8. Antique Rug for Texture

Moreover, the brown vintage rug from Revival enhances the warmth of the room and introduces a wealth of cozy texture. This is my inaugural vintage rug and I’m certain it won’t be the last!
Related: Simple Rug Size Guide: How to Select a Rug for Every Room
9. Contemporary Coastal Dining Room Toy Storage

Ultimately, substituting the bins and refreshing our cube organizer rendered the space significantly more attractive and practical. At present, our dining area serves as a playroom, so we require ample storage that is easily reachable for children.
Related: Top Playroom Storage and Organization Suggestions
Before and After Images
Here are several side-by-side comparison images to illustrate how much this area has evolved.




Our contemporary coastal dining area transformation has resulted in an outcome even more impressive than I envisioned! While I believe no area in our residence will ever be entirely finalized, this room now radiates the relaxed coastal aesthetic that I cherish.
I truly appreciate your encouragement throughout the One Room Challenge, spring 2020 edition. I’m thrilled to witness all of your renovated spaces! Please drop a greeting in the comments so that I can check out your ORC reveal (if you took part) and thank you for your generous support during the weeks.
Additional Coastal Decor Concepts
