Holiday hosting is the time for unbridled merriment and joy. So, why wouldn't you extend this atmosphere year-round?

This is the question boldly posed by Richard E. Grant's dining room, which features multi-colored string lights (like these pretty garlands from Wayfair), stars, and elf figurines throughout, even in September. These hallmarks of Christmas decor make his red tablecloth and colorful glassware feel instantly festive. Richard's atmosphere of holiday cheer despite the outside temperature proves that much of the specialness from this time of year comes from the decor itself.

As Richard's star-studded Instagram post of his dining table demonstrates, it's easy to use maximalist, colorful decor to make your dinner parties merrier than Christmas.

So, how does Richard make his dining room feel festive? First, he layers patterns, from the jacquard tablecloth to the painted bowls to the intricate design on his ceiling and windows. This makes the room feel deeply celebratory.

Shelley Cochrane, Design Expert at Furniture Village, explains: 'Pattern drenching is one of the boldest ways to make a dining room statement in 2026. By layering multiple prints across walls, upholstery and table settings, the room becomes a rich, textured space full of character and personality.'

However, Richard's use isn't random; he unites these seemingly disparate pieces with a burgundy color scheme, tying the entire room together. For those who want to emulate his holiday-forward look, it's important to keep this caveat in mind.

Home Interiors Expert Josh Branigan advises: 'One of the first things people register, often without realizing it, is whether the table and chairs feel like they belong together. A room where everything's clearly been thought through feels more polished. If you're starting from scratch or refreshing the space, a matching dining set takes the guesswork out of it and guarantees a cohesive look. If you prefer to mix and match, tying pieces together with a shared colour or material keeps things feeling intentional rather than accidental.'

Recreate Richard's Look at Home

A combination of burgundy accessories, warm lighting, and festive accents make it easy to replicate the atmosphere of Richard E. Grant's dining room in any home. These are our editors' picks.

Dining room lighting is equally important for creating a merry hosting vibe. Richard E. Grant uses colorful string lights, but you can also create warmth with a less on-the-nose, Christmassy option, like a cozy lamp.

'Lighting sets the entire mood of a dining room, and it's something guests pick up on straight away, even if they couldn't put their finger on why,' says Josh Branigan. 'Harsh overhead lighting can make a meal feel clinical, while a softer, warmer glow makes the whole space feel relaxed and welcoming. A statement pendant hung above the table is an easy way to create a focal point, and dimmable options give you the flexibility to shift from a bright family lunch to a cosy evening dinner.'

To emulate the look at home, layering is your best friend. Shelley Cochrane recommends: 'To style pattern drenching, lean into its maximalist nature and add plenty of accessories, including cushions, tableware, artwork and decorative objects, that echo the patterns and colours in the room, creating a lively, layered and confident look. Just ensure that there is a single unifying colour to ensure the look is cohesive.'

Finally, finish the look of your dinner party with beautiful tablescaping. Richard selects an abundance of flowers and colorful dishes for a maximalist feel, but the options are endless.

Josh states: 'Once the big pieces are in place, it's the styling that guests notice next. You don't need an elaborate display; a simple centrepiece, some fresh flowers or a run of candles can lift a table instantly. Layering in cushions on any bench or carver seating adds comfort and a bit of personality, too. The trick is to keep it in proportion, so there's still plenty of room for plates, glasses and conversation.'

Every day is worth celebrating, and your decor should reflect this, whatever that means for you.

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