The Second Empire style, also known as the "French Second Empire" or "Napoleon III" style, emerged in France in the mid-19th century during the reign of Emperor Napoleon III. It was heavily influenced by the opulent and grandiose designs of the Second French Empire and became popular in Europe and the United States. The Second Empire dining room design is characterized by its ornate and lavish elements, combining elements of neoclassical and baroque styles. If you are looking to create a grand and luxurious dining room, here are 10 design ideas to help you achieve the perfect Second Empire dining room.Second Empire Dining Room Design Ideas
The furniture in a Second Empire dining room should be elegant and grand, with a touch of extravagance. Look for pieces with intricate carvings, curved lines, and gilded accents. A large dining table with ornate legs and a matching set of chairs with velvet upholstery is a must for a Second Empire dining room. You can also add a sideboard or buffet for extra storage and display space.Second Empire Dining Room Furniture
The décor in a Second Empire dining room should be opulent and luxurious. Use rich fabrics like velvet, silk, and brocade for draperies, tablecloths, and upholstery. Incorporate elements like gold-framed mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and decorative wall panels to add to the grandeur of the room. Don't be afraid to mix and match different patterns and textures to create a visually interesting space.Second Empire Dining Room Decor
The color palette in a Second Empire dining room should be rich and bold. Deep jewel tones like emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue are commonly used in this style. You can also incorporate metallic accents like gold, silver, and bronze to add a touch of glamour to the space. Use these colors for your walls, furniture, and décor to create a cohesive and luxurious look.Second Empire Dining Room Colors
A grand chandelier is a must-have in a Second Empire dining room. Look for a chandelier with a brass or gold finish and adorned with crystals or glass beads. It should be large enough to make a statement and provide ample lighting for the room. Hang it above the dining table to create a focal point and add a touch of elegance to the space.Second Empire Dining Room Chandelier
Wallpaper is another essential element in a Second Empire dining room. Look for intricate patterns like damask, floral, or paisley in rich colors. You can also opt for wallpaper with a metallic finish to add a touch of luxury to the walls. Make sure to choose a wallpaper that complements the rest of the décor in the room and creates a cohesive look.Second Empire Dining Room Wallpaper
The dining table is the centerpiece of a Second Empire dining room, so it should be impressive and grand. Look for a large table with ornate legs and a rich wood finish, like mahogany or cherry. You can also opt for a table with a marble top for added elegance. Make sure to choose a table that can comfortably accommodate all your guests for a lavish dining experience.Second Empire Dining Room Table
The chairs in a Second Empire dining room should match the grandeur of the dining table. Look for chairs with intricate carvings, curved lines, and velvet upholstery. You can also opt for chairs with a wingback design for added elegance. Make sure to choose chairs that are comfortable and provide proper support for your guests.Second Empire Dining Room Chairs
In addition to a grand chandelier, make sure to incorporate other lighting elements in your Second Empire dining room. Wall sconces with a similar design to your chandelier can add to the overall ambiance of the room. You can also add table lamps on a sideboard or buffet for a softer, more intimate lighting option.Second Empire Dining Room Lighting
If you prefer a more subtle approach to the Second Empire style, you can opt for paint colors that are inspired by this design. Shades of deep red, blue, and green can still create a luxurious and opulent look without being too over the top. You can also incorporate metallic accents through paint, like a gold accent wall or a silver painted ceiling, for a touch of glamour.Second Empire Dining Room Paint Colors