Dining Tables: 3 Ways to Choose Materials, Shapes, and Sizes

Even during extremely busy days, the dining table possesses the ability to gather the whole family and allow them to catch a breather. Since the dining table is the focal point of every household, it must be stylish, high quality, and large enough to seat all family members.

Dining tables come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, so if you are in the market for a new dining table, it’s safe to say that you are spoiled for choice. However, if you are not a dining table expert or a carpenter, you might need our help to pick the most suitable dining table for you and your loved ones. Be aware that the material will significantly affect the price of the dining table so it’s best to plan a budget and stick to realistic table options.

The right size

When you start the search for a new table, you will notice that the items in the catalogs have 3 different figures for the table dimensions. The first figure will always be width, the second one is depth and the third one is height.

Of course, together with the shape, the table size will determine how many people can be seated at the dining table. If you host parties or events regularly, maybe getting a larger dining table is in the cards for you, however, if you don’t spend too much time using a dining table, going with something stylish but compact is always a great idea.

Now that we know how table dimensions work, it’s time to take a look at what table size best fits you. As a general rule of thumb, experts always advise that there should always be at least 42 inches between the dining table and the walls of the room which will allow for free movement around the table and it will also be much easier to get in and out of the chairs.

The material

The choice of material for most individuals will be decided by personal preference. That means they will either go for something that looks good or for something that’s just more practical. Nowadays, many opt for low-maintenance dining tables as days can get busy with work and daily chores.

However, unique dining tables made from materials such as walnut or white oak are serious contenders for the top spot in the world of dining tables when it comes to style and practicality.

The chosen material will have the biggest impact on the dining table price. Another thing that might seriously affect the price is the manufacturing process. Hand-made dining tables are usually much more expensive, but the stylishness of a hand-crafted table more than makes up for the price you will pay.

Glass is also a popular material used for tables, however, glass tables are notorious for their high maintenance, but if you love your tables and have the time to pay them the attention they deserve, then a dining table made of such a sleek material might not be a bad idea after all.

The right shape

Dining tables vary significantly in their shapes and this might be the hardest part of the table buying process. The most common dining table shape is the rectangular one. Whether you’ll keep it classy with a hand-crafted rectangular dining table or go for a bit of a minimalistic look with a square table depends on you and the space where the table will be placed.

If you want to have a more versatile dining table and enable free movement around the table, square or round tables are the perfect solution for you. On the other hand, if you want to host regular grand meals, oval or rectangular-shaped dining tables are a must.

As mentioned previously, shapes and sizes can largely influence how many people can be seated at the table. Rectangular and oval-shaped dining tables of 48 inches can comfortably seat 4 people, however, square and round tables work perfectly as well but with a small drawback. As opposed to rectangular and oval-shaped dining tables, which can exceed 10 feet and seat 10 people comfortably, these smaller more compact table shapes aren’t a common occurrence in large gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Dining tables are the heart and engine of every home. Pick the right dining table and you will bring immeasurable happiness to your loved ones. Take matters into your own hands and assess the space where you want the dining table to be placed. Make sure that you leave at least 42 inches of space between the dining table and the wall and opt for a material that will fit your needs.

If you are hosting parties and meals regularly, opt for a table that’s larger than 72 inches and allow your guest to enjoy the comfiness of your home.