Kitchen & Dining Tables

The major function of a dining table is essential as the name implies; a table for dining, or eating together. But beyond the obvious meaning and function, a dining room table can be a memorable part of family gatherings, celebrations, cookouts, romantic dinners and other beautiful moments. A dining room table in your space is always an opportunity to make memories with those you love the most.

There are several options you can choose from if you are trying to purchase a dining table. Here, you will get to know the many factors to consider and the options you have when you decide to buy your dining table.

Measurements of dining table

One of the important factors you need to consider is the measurements of the table, as compared to the size of the space your room can allow for the table. In terms of table dimensions, after making sure the table is big or small enough to fit into your room, you should also consider the number of people you expect to be seated at the table and the amount of leg room available. You also need to put into consideration the space between the table and the wall, so that you have enough space for movement after placing the table and chairs. For ample space, you should allow at least 2.5 feet between the back of the chair and the closest wall.

Dining table shape

Dining tables come in three major shapes; the rectangular, square and round shapes. You can select anyone of these shapes based on your preferred aesthetic—but beyond that, space consideration can also guide your choice of shape. If you don’t have so much space, a round table would make more sense than one with corners. Actually, most round tables are on the small side, otherwise, it will be hard to reach across. On the other hand, if you have a lot of space, a rectangular table will be a right choice.

Rectangular

This is the shape found in most homes. It is most effective if you will be entertaining a lot of people. In large rooms, the guests sit on either side of the longer sides while the hosts sit at the narrow sides.

Round

The round-shaped dining table is effective in almost any kind of space. Your guests would naturally want to chat more if they’re seated at a round table. However, when picking a round table, if you don’t want your gusts knocking their knees against the table legs, you can go for a table with a pedestal. It gives enough leg room. Another good reason round tables are effective is that they can seat the maximum number of people possible, especially if the table has a pedestal for legs. A round table is also perfect for informal or unofficial gatherings.

Square

If your space is small and you seldom have people over, a square table might be your best bet. This is because it can be converted for other uses quite easily. At times, it is better to combine two square dining tables rather than one long rectangular table. It easier to move and the tables can be converted for other use at other times. If your whole space has a square shape, you’d be better off sticking with a square table to maintain the symmetry of your room.

Dining Table Styles

Contemporary

This is a modern style; often characterized by straight lines, sharp edges and smooth sides. Sometimes they’re made entirely of one material, other times it is a combination of materials. The design is not usually elaborate or intricate, it can be described as sleek and straightforward.

Traditional

The traditional style is almost always made of wood, having elaborate finishes with some intricate art as design. If your home already has a vintage feel, you should keep it up by adding a traditional-styled dining table to complement. It usually has curved sides, mostly as part of the shape or looks the maker was going for.

Rustic

Rustic tables are more ‘vintage’ than traditional ones. The designs often feature intricate sculptures, sometimes hand-carved.

Dining table Finish

The finishing you select has a lot to do with your taste, but that is not all. You should also consider the occupants of your home. Do kids live with you or do you often have them over? Do you have pets? These are some important questions that need to be answered before you choose the finish you want.

Marble

Marble finish is attractive and adds an immediate shine to your room, but it gets stained easily. Also, because of heat, a marble table can start fading quite fast. A solution to this is to put a protective mat over the table. However, if you have kids, you might want to avoid marble tabletops.

Wood

For your table finish, if you’re going for wood, it’s better to do hardwood. It lasts longer. Examples of hardwood are tables made from oak, mahogany or teak timber. After some time of using wood, you may need to refurbish it by sanding and resealing. Wood comes in different shades. For some contrast, select a shade that contrasts your floor’s color.

Veneer

Veneer is a layer of wood-like finishing applied on a composite board. The major advantage of the veneer finish is the cost. It is relatively cheap and therefore good if you’re on a budget. The downside, however, is that in case of a scratch, there is no permanent solution to fix the table. So, if you have kids and pets, please consider other finishing materials.

MDF

MDF is short for Medium Density Fiberboard. It is manufactured by mixing wood particles from hard and soft wood. It is relatively hard, though not much as hardwood. The major drawback is that it easily scratches. It’s pretty easy to clean though.

Glass

If you must use a glass table, make sure it is tempered glass. Tempered glass won’t break into pieces on impact; rather it can crack but still hold its shape. Also, for glass tables, be careful about the edges—make sure they’re not too sharp. If you have kids running around, you can go for a round or oval shape to avoid having edges. Also, glass has a specific aesthetic effect; it helps brighten up a dark room.

Summary

You must have noticed that all our considerations in picking the best dining room table to revolve around the people that would be seated around it. Get a befitting table today and make new memories with your loved ones and food!