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The dining table. One of the most multifunctional pieces of furniture you’ll likely own. A place to gather for food, games, school work, art, and much more.
When it comes to selecting a new dining table, it’s not just about the look. There’s many attributes of a dining room table you’ll want to consider to ensure durability, function, and a perfect fit for your family and room.
Location
As architects move to more open floor plans in new homes and with smaller apartment spaces, there’s more room for creativity when it comes to the space for dining tables.
Just because you have a traditional dining room doesn’t mean that’s where it has to go. Seeing as it’s a place for social gatherings, you may prefer a dining table in a more open space.
It’s important to know where you want to dine in your home to be able to select the best table for the space and for your wants and needs.
Table Height
Did you know dining tables come in varying heights? It’s not common knowledge, but it’s true. Your traditional, or standard, dining tables vary from 28 to 30 inches in height. This is likely what you’re used to seeing when looking for dining tables.
Standard tables are usually ideal for those who need more seating. They are more family friendly with sizes appropriate for young children to more easily sit and participate in dinner or other activities.
But there’s also counter height dining tables, which range from 35 to 39 inches. Also known as bar or cafe tables, this can be a height better suited for small spaces, rec rooms, or for a more modern and fun look.
Counter height tables are versatile and can take any space and make it look more modern. They can be used as a kitchen table, for additional seating in rec rooms, or in your traditional dining room space. Counter height tables can also be used to create outdoor cafe areas to enjoy in the warmer months.
Regardless of height, both options can come with leaves to extend your seating space depending on the model and the available space in the room.
Table Length
Similar to height, the length of your table is just as important based on the size of the room. When selecting a dining room table, you want to ensure not only that you have enough seating for those using it on a daily basis, but also the space around it for flow of foot traffic.
And don’t forget to consider and measure the space for when chairs are pulled out or people are sitting and the clearance behind to move around. You’ll want enough space for someone to sit and for someone to comfortably walk behind without having to become a cirque du soleil performer.
Table Shape
Another consideration for your design aesthetics and space is the share of your dining table. There are four shapes, which include the traditional rectangle, the common circle, the modern oval, and the simple square.
For large, open areas, a rectangle dining table typically fits the space the best, allowing for ample seating space and a grand presence.
For smaller spaces, such as apartments or within a kitchen, a circle shape is most common to accommodate more seating and create a more casual and close dining experience. While more casual, they do offer a more intimate experience as everyone at the table is visible to everyone else.
The oval is a more modern look, allowing for more seating than your circle, while still instilling some traditional elegance.
The square table is a great option for smaller spaces like apartments, small square rooms, or for smaller families who don’t want as much space taken up for dining, but wanting a dedicated space.
Which One Should You Choose?
As you begin to look for your new dining table, make sure to consider all of the above, along with your personal preference. If you’re looking for a cozy casual feel, a counter height circular table me just what you want. For a more traditional look, you may opt for a standard rectangular dining table.
Just make sure your table fits comfortably in your space with room to easily move around.
Watson’s carries a large selection of dining room tables in every height, shape, size, and material. Whichever look and size you’re wanting, we can help. Choose from any of our 9 locations and contact one of our design experts today to find your perfect dining table!
