Many of us have a separate dining room, but it's often unused and unloved, except for the odd Sunday roast or dinner party with friends, except for the all-important Christmas dinner. For the rest of the year, our dining rooms are left to get dusty, or else they double up for some other purpose, a makeshift office, craft room, or playroom for the children.

The key to sprucing up your dining room is to aim for a luxurious, expensive-looking finish, but crucially, it doesn't have to cost the earth. Luxury is about a high-end feel, good design, and quality, but it's not necessarily about the price tag. The value is in the impact or drama it gives the room, not the amount spent.

Is it time to show your dining room some love and really make it shine ahead of this Christmas? Here's how…

Decor: Rich jewel-toned colours will create a dramatic, luxurious room. Perhaps go for a deep blue or green for a sumptuous feel that will look absolutely fantastic by candlelight.

Lighting: Lighting is an essential factor in a dining room. You don't want stark, bright lights like you would have in a kitchen or work area; you want your lighting to create an ambience. Try using various lighting sources, from table lamps and floor lamps in darker corners to a statement chandelier or dropped lights that hang low above the dining table.

Furniture: You'd be forgiven for thinking that the table is the most important piece of furniture in a dining room; after all, this is where the magic happens. But designers often say you can scrimp a little on the table, but you should splurge on the chairs. The rear of each chair is more visible than the table when someone initially comes into a room, and the average dinner party takes a good few hours, so you want your guests to be comfortable. Go for statement chairs in a vibrant colour to stand out, or opt for some with attractive styling on the backs.

Artwork: Oversized statement pieces create an interesting talking point and can be used to either influence your colour scheme or complement it. They don't have to be expensive; you could perhaps give it a go yourself and buy a large canvas and some paints that compliment your room's decor and make your very own abstract piece.

Mirrors: We all know that reflecting the room and the lighting will give the impression of a large space, but mirrors in a dining room will also reflect the glorious glow of the candles flickering around your lovely guests as you enjoy your meal.

The table: The table takes centre stage and is an opportunity to give your guests something to admire. From linens to place settings, crockery and serving dishes, cutlery and glassware, try to make everything follow a coherent style. That is not to say it all must be from the same set - a vintage theme can work very well with a combination of pieces - but aim for all the same shapes or sizes or perhaps opt for a similar colour scheme. A luxury meal deserves a linen tablecloth and napkins, not paper serviettes, and maybe you could add a different texture with a central table runner. Whether you go for charger plates or placemats, the choice is yours, but try to use something with a touch of class.

Tall ceilings: Use the height of your room by adding statement florals and tall branches, or, of course, during the festive period, what better than to add a towering Christmas tree as the perfect backdrop! Imagine those twinkly lights and glittery decorations whilst you tuck in to your turkey!

Finishing touches: Handmade centre pieces can elevate your table, whether bought or foraged on a lovely winter walk; utilise holly, mistletoe and pine cones, maybe even with a spray of gold paint for a little extra something, or perhaps for a more elegant feel, use fishbowls filled with colourful baubles. Place along the table runner or around the room to decorate and add a touch of festive spirit. Also, consider making place settings for your guests, perhaps with something a little personal for each person to show them that you've really thought about each and every one of them.

Follow these tips to make your dining room the centre stage for your best Christmas ever this year.

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