A dining table is one of the few pieces of furniture that brings people together every day. Because it is used so often and kept for so long, it is worth choosing slowly. A few practical questions make the decision much easier.
Measure the room, not just the table
The table needs space around it as much as it needs space on top. Allow roughly 80 to 90 cm between the table edge and a wall or another piece of furniture so chairs can be pulled out and people can pass behind them. Marking the outline on the floor with tape for a few days is the simplest way to see whether a size really works.
Count people, then add one
As a guide, each person needs about 60 cm of table edge to eat comfortably. Think about how many people sit at the table on an ordinary day and how many on a busy one. An extending table can bridge the gap, but check how the extension is stored and how easy it is to open.
Round, oval or rectangular
Round and oval tables suit smaller rooms and conversation, since everyone can see everyone else and there are no corners to walk around. Rectangular tables fit long rooms, seat more people along their length and work well under a linear pendant.
Look closely at the base
Legs at the corners give the most legroom along the sides but limit how many chairs fit at the ends. A central pedestal or trestle frees space for knees and lets you squeeze in an extra chair when needed.
Choose a surface for real life
Solid wood can be sanded and refinished over the years and gains character with use. Veneers are lighter and more stable. Stone and ceramic tops resist heat and scratches but feel colder and need care at the edges. Ask how each finish should be cleaned and what it will look like after a few years of daily use.
Plan the chairs and the light together
Check the height between seat and tabletop, usually around 28 to 30 cm, and whether chair arms slide under the table edge. Hang a pendant so its light falls on the table rather than in people's eyes.
If you are planning a dining space, our Interior Design service can help you weigh size, shape and materials with your room in mind.