Choosing the right dining table: materials, styles

Choosing the right dining table The central element in every dining room is the dining table. It is the largest piece of furniture and is usually located right in the center of the room, where it dictates the style of the room and sets the tone for the entire dining experience. And it’s the most expensive piece of furniture you’ll buy in your dining room.

When considering the choice of dining room table, three considerations are very important: the materials used in the table, the shape and style of the decoration, and the size of the table.

The materials

Like any other piece of furniture, a dining table can be made of many different materials, from glass to concrete, from polished marble to rough sawn pine. Choosing the right material is no easy task as each material has a distinct aesthetic impact, as well as practical considerations. Polished glass may give exactly the modern feel you like, but in a home where active children play, it may not be the best choice. A picnic-style trestle table made of rough-sawn pine is perfect for everyday family use, but its rustic style may not give you the elegance you desire. But in a large home where most family meals take place in the kitchen dining room, the formal dining room can comfortably accommodate this polished French mahogany table.

Choosing the right materials is therefore a matter of balancing the appearance and aesthetics of the material with its practical suitability. Most experts recommend first choosing several materials that suit your sense of style, then narrowing it down to one that meets your dining room lifestyle needs. If your dining room needs to meet everyday needs and you prefer wood, then a good choice will be a more rustic piece of furniture that improves with time by developing a worn patina.

Styles and shapes

Of the many ways dining tables can be classified, style and shape are among the most important criteria. The style and shape influence the atmosphere of the room and the dining experience, as well as the number of people who can dine comfortably around the table.

Rectangular

This is by far the most common shape for a dining table, a traditional shape that works well at the beginning of any dining room. Rectangular tables come in different widths to fit large and narrow rooms and then the length makes them optimal for large gatherings. Most rectangular tables include removable extensions making them very suitable for a variety of gatherings, from small family dinners to large holiday events. The popularity of rectangular tables means there are more styles available than round or square tables.

Traditional oval

Traditional oval-shaped dining tables are really beautiful. Often made from mahogany or cherry, this is the type of furniture that is often passed down from generation to generation in a family. Antique versions can usually be found at auctions and estate sales, while newer versions of this style are sold in many furniture stores. Oval tables are often equipped with removable extensions, which makes them very practical, as the dimensions can change depending on the number of people you need to seat. Oval tables require a little more space on average than rectangular tables.

Round pedestal

These types of tables are easy to sit on because there are no uncomfortable legs, just a single pedestal in the center. Traditional wood and marble versions date back hundreds of years, but they’ve come a long way since then. There are many modern or mid-century versions available on the market today that have a very flowing look and are ideal for more contemporary environments.

Carré

Like round tables, square dining tables work well in small spaces or where dining groups typically include four people or fewer. Larger square dining tables are better for conversation than rectangular tables because guests are closer together and everyone is facing each other. Like oval tables, larger square dining tables require more space in length and width than other types.

Modern Rustic

This style has become very popular over the years. It is clean and modern (usually rectangular). Worn woods are just as popular as natural raw materials such as slate. Another even more popular style is the mix of wood and metal in the construction of the table.

Easel

Trestle tables consist of two or three trestles that form the base of the table and support a long piece that makes up the surface of the table. This is a very old style of table that is best suited to casual settings.

Agricultural company

Farmhouse style dining tables, as the name suggests, are casual and rustic, suitable for kitchens and dining rooms looking for a country decor style. They are usually made of pine, often with a rough sawn or knotted surface, and have a very casual appearance.

Dimensions

The size you choose for your dining room table will depend somewhat on its shape. Round tables encourage conversation, but seat fewer people comfortably than rectangular tables.

Round and square tables

3 to 4 feet (36 to 48 inches): Comfortably seats 4 people

5 feet (60 inches): Comfortably seats 6 people

6 feet (72 inches): Comfortably seats 8 people

Rectangular and oval tables

6 feet (72 inches): Comfortably seats 6 people

8 feet (96 inches): Comfortably seats 8 people

10 feet (120 inches): Can accommodate 10 people comfortably

Dining tables are generally 30 inches tall, however it is very important to check this before purchasing as some tables are lower. If you buy a coffee table, make sure you choose matching chairs.

Tips for choosing the best table size

Each person should have about 2 feet of space to eat comfortably.

If the ends of the table are intended to host a dinner party, the minimum width of the table should be 3 feet; 4 feet if you plan to seat two guests occasionally.

Ideally, there should be 3 feet between the edges of the table and the walls. This leaves enough space to pull out chairs for seating.

Consider extending tables with extensions. It is always best to leave enough space around the table for everyday use, enlarging the table if possible for larger meetings or parties.

No matter the size of your space, make meals and dinners more interesting with dining tables that fit your space. We hope this guide helps and inspires you to create a dining room that works and is a great place to laugh and eat well.