There’s something so special about gathering around the dining table, whether it’s for an anticipated family meal or entertaining guests. But with so many different styles and considerations to take into account, knowing how to pick a dining table that suits your needs can feel overwhelming.
Fear not! Our comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know on your quest of choosing a perfect dining table for your home. Let’s begin.
- Choosing a dining table with the right dimensions
- Selecting design features to match your style
- 10 popular styles of dining tables
- Additional considerations
- Where to feature your dining table
Choosing a dining table with the right dimensions
Just like with any furniture piece, it’s essential to consider the space and layout of your dining area before looking at the goods. Prior to making a purchase, envision how the table will fit into your existing space and how it will complement your overall décor style – from industrial chic to mid-century modern.
Whether you’re working with a spacious dining room or a tight breakfast nook, finding the right balance between functionality and aesthetics is key to creating a welcoming and harmonious dining area. Do stay aware though, you might have to get clever if you realise that you’ll need a nifty dining table for a smaller space.
Obtaining your measurements
When it comes to dining tables, size matters. Of course, the dimensions of your dining table will depend on the size of your dining area, the number of people you plan to accommodate, and your personal preferences. Before making a decision, be sure to measure the space and consider the following dimensions:
- Length: Measure the length of your dining area to determine how much space you have available for your table – don’t forget to include any extra inches for extendable varieties and traversing the space!
- Width: Consider the width of your dining area to ensure that there is enough room for chairs and movement around the table, including 90cm clearance behind the chairs.
- Height: Determine the height of your dining table based on the height of your chairs and the comfort of your guests. Similar to barstool heights, you’ll want the chairs to be at least 20-25cm lower than the table for ample legroom.
At Evelyn Lily Interiors, we offer a variety of dining table options to suit every space and style along with some gorgeous chairs that boast of excellent craftsmanship. But before you get too excited: remember to measure carefully and check the dimensions before making a purchase to ensure a perfect fit.
Choosing design features to suit your style
From traditional farmhouse tables to sleek modern designs, dining tables come in a variety of styles to suit every taste and aesthetic. Consider the following design features to get one step closer to the perfect match for your home.
Tabletop materials
The material of your dining table can have a significant impact on its appearance, durability, and maintenance. Common tabletop materials include wood, glass, marble, and metal, each offering its own unique look and feel.
Leg styles
The legs of your dining table can vary in style, from classic trestle and pedestal designs to more modern options like hairpin legs or metal bases. Choose a leg style that complements your overall décor style and provides the stability and support you need.
Shape and size considerations
It goes without saying that dining tables come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including rectangular, square, round, oval, and sometimes even more abstract silhouettes. Consider the size and shape of your dining area, as well as the number of people you plan to accommodate, when choosing the ideal dining table shape for the room.
Special features
Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to consider dining tables with special features such as extendable leaves, built-in storage, or adjustable heights. These features can add versatility and functionality to your dining area, making mealtime more enjoyable and convenient and giving you extra space if you need a surface for tabletop games of a Christmas jigsaw puzzle.
10 dining table crowd pleasers
1. Farmhouse
Rustic and charming, farmhouse tables are characterised by their sturdy construction and simple, timeless design. We love this stunning refectory dining table.
2. Mid-century modern
Sleek and stylish, mid-century modern tables feature clean lines, tapered legs, and organic shapes inspired by the design trends of the 1950s and 1960s, which in turn were inspired by the Mod movement among many others.
3. Industrial
Industrial tables combine rugged materials like wood and metal with bold, utilitarian design elements for a look that’s both modern and edgy.
4. Scandinavian
Minimalist and functional, Scandinavian tables feature clean lines, light wood finishes, and understated elegance inspired by Nordic design principles. In a tiny, cramped kitchen you could even put one of these Aldro console tables against a wall to create a small hub for quick meals.
5. Traditional
Classic and elegant, traditional tables feature ornate details, rich wood finishes, and timeless design elements that never go out of style.
6. Contemporary
Sleek and sophisticated, contemporary tables feature bold shapes, innovative materials, and cutting-edge design for a modern look that’s sure to impress.
7. Bistro
Quaint and charming, bistro tables are small, round tables typically found in cafes and bistros. Perfect for rooms where space is at a premium, bistro tables add a touch of European flair to any dining space.
8. Extendable
Practical and versatile, extendable tables feature built-in leaves or extensions that can be easily expanded to accommodate extra guests or folded away to save space when not in use.
9. Glass top
Elegant and versatile, glass tables add a touch of glamour to any dining space while creating a sense of openness and lightness.
10. Split-level kitchen islands
Perfect for casual dining or entertaining, split-level kitchen islands add a contemporary touch to any dining space while providing a casual and relaxed atmosphere and tons of convenience in the form of a zoned dining/cooking area.
Additional considerations
When choosing a dining table, be sure to consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and budget. Invest in a quality table that will withstand the test of time and provide years of enjoyment for you and your family. To do so ask yourself some of the following questions:
- How much legroom is your ideal?
- Who will be using the table? Can children and elderly relatives use it without strain?
- How long is your dining space? Will it remain stationary the entire time, or will you want to move it when the time comes?
- Are you willing to clean the wood if it’s oak, for example? Or is a lower-maintenance material like glass preferable?
Decisions, decisions. It sounds like a lot of questions and a lot of brain power, but once you have these answered it’ll be easy enough to pick out your new table.
Where to feature your dining table
Pssst, here’s a secret. Dining tables aren’t just for the dining room! Consider featuring your dining table in other areas of your home, such as:
Kitchen: Create an intimate breakfast nook or casual dining area in your kitchen with a small dining table and a few chairs.
Living room: Add a touch of elegance to your living room with a stylish console table or sofa table that doubles as a dining table for entertaining guests.
Outdoor space: Take advantage of your outdoor space by featuring an outdoor dining table on your patio, deck, or balcony for alfresco dining and entertaining.
Dine in style
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal with family, a dining table is the perfect centrepiece for any gathering. With our comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to get started choosing the perfect dining table for your home, ensuring many years of happy memories and delicious meals to come.
