9 Incredible Vintage Photos of Dining Rooms Throughout the Decades
Feast your eyes on these retro spaces.
If you live in a compact New York City apartment like mine, chances are you don’t have a designated dining room. While I do have a modest table and a set of chairs aesthetically nestled in my family room, I don’t technically have a separate formal dining area. While this setup is typical for many urban dwellers, homeowners with more square footage are more likely to have a separate dining room.
Although dedicated dining rooms are more common in larger homes today, their origins reflect a time when they were reserved for society's wealthiest households.
Once only found in affluent homes between the Middle Ages and the 17th century, dining rooms are no longer considered a luxury. In fact, recent findings show only about 25% of active real estate listings highlight the dining room as a selling point.
It’s no secret that the dining room’s function has evolved over the years. Once the central area for dining and entertaining, the former staple has often become an untouched space reserved only for special occasions or completely different purposes.
Curious to see how dining rooms in the U.S. and around the world have transformed through the decades? You’re in luck. We’ve rounded up some of the best vintage dining room photos for your viewing pleasure.
1915
A large oil portrait hangs on the wall of this dining room from the early 20th century.
During this period, French doors were widely used to create a seamless flow between formal parlors and dining rooms.
1928
Brocade chairs draw the eye into this spacious dining room. The expansive decorative rug anchors the space and complements the chairs’ ornate motif—creating a maximalist look.
1930s
Decorative crown molding outlines this Art Deco New York City dining room. The pair of candelabras set atop the wooden table highlights its remarkable length.
1945
Two white, studded armchairs flank a glossy table in this mid-1940s dining room. The window blinds add a charming vibe to this Wisconsin residence.
1950s
As we really start to get into the midcentury modern era, you’ll notice the simple, light wood chairs and tables. Pastel colors found in the decor complete the look.
1960s
Does it get more ’60s than this? The orange and white tulip chairs mixed with the graphic green wallpaper bring energy to the space, but also warmth.
1970s
Leather and metal never looked so good. The tan-colored chairs and eye-catching silver framing create a dynamic look that complements the nature-inspired mural in this ’70s dining room.
1980s
This was basically the last decade that embraced parquet flooring and coffered ceilings. You see a hint of the thick floral drapes, which was also extremely fitting for that time.
1990s
Listen, we don’t like calling the ’90s “vintage” either, but you know, we’re going back almost 40 years. And this photo proves it. The wall-to-wall carpeting, the teal glasses, the mirrored wall, and conceptual chairs say it all.
Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with more than two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Travel + Leisure, Tripadvisor, People, Parade and more. Her coverage includes travel, lifestyle, entertainment and wellness content. When she's not exploring the world with her family, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears.
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