What to Consider When Choosing a Dining Table

When choosing a new dining table, there are three things you'll want to spend a bit of extra time considering. First of all, you'll need to think about the shape of the table. Do you want a round table? A square table? A rectangle? This should depend on the space you have and how you want to style the room. Next, you need to think about height. You could go with a counter-height piece to add levels to your living space, or stick with a standard height for a traditional look. Lastly, you should consider the material. A room's style can change completely by choosing a wood versus a glass table, or a glass versus a natural stone tabletop. Got it? No worries. We're about to dig deeper into each of these three ideas.

Selecting the Table Shape

First off, where will your beautiful new dining table live? Is it going to serve as the kitchen table, where space may be more limited, or how about as a formal dining table? For tighter spaces, you'll want to spend more time thinking about what shape will be easiest to navigate around in your home. Try a round or oval-shaped table for smaller spaces, since the rounded edges make the kitchen table easier to tuck into a compact area. It also makes it easier for you to add extra dining chairs when necessary. If you have plenty of space and you're thinking about a formal dining room, a square or rectangular piece would work well. Another option, if you have a smaller formal dining room, is a rectangular butterfly table. These tables can open up to create more room to fit extra dining chairs for holidays and special occasions, but fold in for day-to-day dining.

Picking the Right Height

Table height is another important factor when it comes to choosing a dining room table. There are two heights that make up most of the selection: standard height (30 inches) and counter-height (36 inches). If you don’t have a lot of space around the table, a counter-height table may be a good choice. This way, you can buy stools that can be tucked away under the table instead of less-compact dining chairs.

Finding the Perfect Material

When you’re searching for the right material for your dining table, it's important to think about the atmosphere of the room as a whole. For example, if you’re going for a rustic or traditional style, a glass table may not be the first choice. A wood table, however, would be right on the mark. Wood is beautiful but, if not sealed correctly, can be harder to clean and protect from spills. Glass tables are easy to clean but tend to fit very specific aesthetics. Stone tables are great because messes blend easily, so you don’t have to constantly clean them. They lend an organic, contemporary feel to dining rooms as well. Lastly, metal tables are very industrial and practical. Metal is very contemporary and often very light, making the table easy to move.

In conclusion, to pick the best dining room table for your home, remember to:

First, think about what shape you want;
Then, pick what height;
And lastly, choose a material.

Focusing on these three characteristics will help you quickly narrow down the wide variety to find exactly what you're looking for. If you want to buy your chairs and table together, browse our dining room sets.

How do I determine the right size dining table for my space?

To determine the right size for your dining table, start by measuring the length and width of your dining area. Ensure there is at least 36 inches of clearance from the table to the wall or any other furniture, to allow for comfortable seating and movement around the table. For each person, plan for about 24 inches of table space for comfortable dining. If you entertain often, consider a table with extension leaves to accommodate extra guests when needed.

What are the benefits of different dining table shapes?

Different dining table shapes can cater to various spatial needs and dining styles. Rectangular tables are the most common and versatile, suitable for rooms of all sizes and perfect for hosting large gatherings. Round tables are ideal for smaller spaces and encourage more intimate dining experiences, as everyone can see each other easily. Square tables work well in square rooms and can add a modern feel to your space, while oval tables offer the benefits of a rectangular table but with softer edges, making them safer for households with children.

What materials are best for a dining table that will last?

The longevity of a dining table greatly depends on the material it's made from. Hardwoods such as oak, maple, and teak are durable and can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. They are also less prone to damage from heat and sharp objects. If you prefer a more industrial look, metal tables are sturdy and can last for decades with proper care. Glass tables can give a room a lighter, more open feel, but they require regular cleaning and can be prone to scratching. Composite or veneered woods are more affordable options but may not endure as long as solid wood or metal tables.