Chelsea from Making Manzanita just wrapped up a major dining room transformation, and it’s a DIY lover’s dream.
What started as a simple flooring update turned into an 11-month renovation…
Complete with knocking down two load-bearing walls to create an open concept between the kitchen and living room.
The new space blends modern boho with traditional charm, featuring these amazing decor upgrades:
- Sage green walls
- Faux wood ceiling beams
- Rattan basket pendant light over a rectangular dining table
She added a full wall of built-in cabinetry using stock cabinets, stained to match the kitchen, and topped with budget-friendly laminate that mimics marble.
Above the cabinets, she installed floating shelves and even tiled the wall for extra texture and depth.
One of my favorite touches is the cozy reading nook that includes an arched opening, floating bookshelves, and wallpapered ceiling—such a clever use of space!
Chelsea and her husband Logan handled everything themselves, from drywall and electrical to building custom stairs and installing laminate flooring.
If you’re thinking about opening up your layout or adding built-ins, this project is packed with inspiration.
Check out Chelsea’s full reveal and tutorials at Making Manzanita to see how you can bring these ideas into your own home.
DIY Quick List: Materials, Steps & Tips
Materials Used
- Laminate flooring
- Stock cabinets for built-ins
- Laminate countertop material
- Drywall and joint compound
- Paint (sage green for walls)
- Wallpaper for ceiling in reading nook
- Tile for wall above cabinets
- Floating shelf hardware
- Wood for faux ceiling beams
- Lighting fixtures (rattan basket pendant light)
Key Steps
- Removed two load-bearing walls to create an open concept layout.
- Installed new laminate flooring throughout the space.
- Built and installed built-in cabinets along one wall, topped with a laminate countertop.
- Tiled the wall above the cabinets for added texture.
- Added floating shelves above the tiled wall for display and storage.
- Created a cozy reading nook with an arched opening, floating bookshelves, and wallpapered ceiling.
- Constructed and installed faux wood ceiling beams to enhance architectural interest.
- Painted the walls in a calming sage green color.
- Installed a rattan basket pendant light over the dining table to complete the look.
Helpful Tips
When removing load-bearing walls, ensure proper structural support by consulting with a professional and installing necessary header beams.
Using stock cabinets can be a cost-effective solution for creating built-ins; customize them with paint or stain to match your decor.
Incorporate a mix of textures—such as tile, wood, and wallpaper—to add depth and interest to the space.
Consider creating multifunctional areas, like a reading nook, to maximize the usability of your dining room.
Pay attention to lighting; a statement fixture can serve as a focal point and enhance the room’s ambiance.