10 Dining Room Buffet Decor Ideas: Creative and Practical Decor Tips for a Stylish Dining BuffetLena HartwellSep 24, 2025Table of Contents1. Layered Art and Mirrors2. Seasonal Floral Arrangements3. Ambient Lighting with Lamps4. Statement Centerpiece5. Mix of Trays and Decorative Boxes6. Showcase Your Glassware7. Integrate a Mini Bar Corner8. Add Greenery with Potted Plants9. Curate a Color Story10. Keep Space for ServingFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, I had a client who insisted their dining buffet must “look like a Paris hotel lobby” — in a tiny city apartment! It sounded impossible, but that challenge reminded me how small spaces push us to be far more inventive. Whether you have a sprawling dining area or just a cozy wall, your buffet can be a showpiece and a storage hero. Today, I’m sharing 10 buffet decor ideas I’ve used (and loved) over the years, all easy to adapt in your own space.1. Layered Art and MirrorsStacking a large mirror with smaller framed art in front adds depth and reflects light beautifully. I once used a vintage mirror from a flea market and paired it with bold modern prints — instant character. If you’re unsure about proportions, a quick mock-up in a virtual room setup helps you nail the balance.save pin2. Seasonal Floral ArrangementsSwitching flowers with the season keeps the buffet feeling fresh. Hydrangeas in summer, eucalyptus in winter — the trick is using varying vase heights for dimension. Yes, faux flowers work too (and don’t judge me, I’ve done it more than once!).save pin3. Ambient Lighting with LampsPlacing twin lamps on each end gives symmetry and a soft evening glow. The only challenge? Hiding those pesky cords — I usually run them neatly along the back edge and secure them with discreet clips.save pin4. Statement CenterpieceOne large object, like a sculptural bowl or ceramic bust, instantly elevates the look. It’s a minimalist’s dream, though dusting can be a weekly job if you choose intricate shapes.save pin5. Mix of Trays and Decorative BoxesGrouping small items on a tray keeps the display tidy and practical. I love combining trays with small decorative boxes to hide remotes or coasters. I even mapped out my client’s buffet storage with a custom layout plan so they could visualize hidden organization.save pin6. Showcase Your GlasswareBuffets are perfect for displaying chic glassware. Just be careful about direct sunlight, as it can sometimes fade or cause heat spots on colored pieces.save pin7. Integrate a Mini Bar CornerIf you entertain, a small bar setup with bottles, shakers, and glasses brings both style and function. I usually recommend a low-profile tray to keep things corralled and spill-proof.save pin8. Add Greenery with Potted PlantsPlants instantly add life — I had one client whose fiddle-leaf fig practically became a guest at dinner parties. Just make sure you choose species that cope with your dining room’s light levels.save pin9. Curate a Color StorySticking to a themed palette (say, creams and golds or navy and brass) ties the whole vignette together. I once built a full blue-and-white chinoiserie display; planning it in a digital room mock-up saved me from buying too many mismatched pieces.save pin10. Keep Space for ServingLeave some open surface area for serving dishes during big meals. It’s tempting to cover every inch with decor, but trust me, during a dinner party, you’ll thank yourself for that breathing space.save pinFAQQ: Should the buffet decor match my dining table style?A: Not exactly — it should complement, not clone. Contrast in texture or finish can actually make the space more interesting.Q: How often should I change buffet decor?A: I recommend small tweaks every season, with a major refresh once a year.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE