Your dining table is the centerpiece of your home and should reflect its aesthetic. When selecting one, it is crucial that you consider both its practical needs and how it will fit within its space.
Before purchasing furniture, always inspect its joinery to determine its strength. Wood joined with wood is often a reliable indicator of sturdy construction.
Size
A dining table is one of the central components of any home and should be carefully selected in order to fit its intended space. Measuring length and width to determine an acceptable size is critical, and at least three feet of clearance between its edge and walls or furniture should be allowed between it and its edge.
A table that offers space for chairs to move comfortably allows diners to feel free from feeling squeezed between walls and their chair, and also prevents diners from feeling pinched between their seat and a wall. If accommodating a large group, consider tables with extensions or drop-down leaves for increased seating capacity.
Selecting a dining table that complements the style of your home is also key, and there is a wide variety of table designs available that fit every aesthetic from minimalist, Scandinavian and rustic styles. Masking tape or cardboard mock-ups of desired tables in your space are great ways to see how they will work before committing to purchase.
Shape
As much as size matters, shape can also play an integral part in creating the aesthetic you are seeking in a dining table. Choose from an assortment of shapes to complement the style and ambiance of your dining room space and select one to meet that objective.
Rectangular tables are the go-to shape for dining rooms that boast formal settings or host large numbers of diners, though their shape can sometimes create isolation among diners and may not promote as much sociability as round or oval options.
Shape of Your Dining Table The shape of your dining table has an enormous effect on how many chairs can fit comfortably around it. If your space is limited, round designs or those featuring pedestal bases offer maximum legroom to prevent guests from bashing elbows when sitting down. Benches may also work in smaller spaces if they can be easily pushed under or beneath it without taking up too much floor area.
Material
Consider durability, aesthetics and price when selecting your dining table material. Wood is a timeless classic; while reclaimed wood adds character while decreasing demand for new wood.
Natural stone offers an eye-catching aesthetic with its bold designs and impressive durability, yet is vulnerable to surface damage that requires extra maintenance than other materials.
Tempered glass tables offer unobstructed sightlines and accommodate various styles, yet can be more costly than alternative materials. Furthermore, as transparent material it shows fingerprints more readily.
Metal furniture can be an affordable and flexible solution, available in an assortment of finishes to complement different design aesthetics, from industrial to contemporary. However, due to its weight and difficulty of moving and rearrangement, consider opting for tables with casters or stackable bases as a more convenient alternative. Hard wax oil provides superior protection from water spots, heat damage and dirt deposits on natural wood furniture while still maintaining the texture and feel of its material properties.
Finish
Dining tables are at the core of many homes, serving as the centerpiece for mealtimes and memories alike. When searching for the right table for you, it is important to consider size, shape and finish for optimal harmony and functionality.
Start by measuring both length and width of your dining space, subtracting six feet for seating and movement clearance on all sides, to gain an idea of the maximum recommended table size. This will provide an accurate reflection of what would make for the ideal size of table to purchase.
Hard wax oil is a natural finish that’s simple to apply and preserves the appearance of wood surfaces, yet less protective than other finishes requiring frequent reapplication.