How to Select the Perfect Dining Table

Posted on: May 6th, 2016

There are so many shapes and sizes of dining tables. Which one is right for you? The look of your table is important but making sure it is right for your space and is functional for lifestyle is key. Tables need to allow for the proper number of diners that seat comfortably and still leave enough room for you to walk around it. The minimum width of your table should be at least 36” inches wide so there is ample space for settings, as well as dishes. Typically, as the table length increases, so does the width of the table top. Read on for sizes and shapes to consider when shopping for your perfect dining room table.

Measure table-to-wall clearance

Measure the space around the room. To allow diners to sit down and get up easily from their seats, try to leave 42-48″ inches between your table and walls.

Tips to measure

To test out a table size in a room, you can grab a bed sheet or two, place it where the table will go, and fold it into the shape of the table. This allows you to visualize the space it will take up in the room and what type of table works best for your lifestyle. Then measure the wall / furniture-to-table clearance. If your table has leaves, make sure to include them in your calculations.

Don’t overcrowd your table

The table manufacturer should recommend the number of people that can comfortably be seated without touching elbows while eating. Each person needs about 2’ feet of eating space to be comfortable. Of course, if your table allows for it, you might be able to squeeze in another seat for those larger gatherings.

Round tables are great for small space

Round tables fit best in tight spaces and creates a cozy intimate setting, so it is the best shape for a small group of people. Pedestal tables are even better because they offer more legroom. A large round table, however, can make guests feel far away from each other and is hard to reach for food. For a more versatile table, get one with a leaf that changes into an oval shape to accommodate larger gatherings.

Add transparent acrylic chairs to show off a beautiful table and make a small room feel more spacious.

Seating size for a round table

Manufacturers may offer different recommendations but you might be able to add more seating for a tighter fit. Keep in mind that using a pedestal base allows for more seating because it eliminates the legs that can get in the way of a chair.

Eliot Round Table

• 3′ with a pedestal base seats 4
• 4′ with legs seats 4
• 5′ with a pedestal base seats 6
• 5′ with legs seats 4
• 6′ with pedestal base or legs seats 8
• 7′ with pedestal base or legs seats 9

 

Oval table

An oval table is very similar to a rectangular shape table and visually it uses up less space because of the round corners. Therefore, oval tables are a great fit for a narrow or smaller size room. Many oval tables also come with leaves to extend their capacity for larger group gatherings.

A rectangular table works well in a long, narrow room

Rectangular tables leave more room for traffic flow. These types of table are the most common shape because most dining rooms are rectangular. It’s also a great shape for seating more than four people. Rectangular tables are often more flexible since many come with leaves that extend the length.

Seating size for a rectangular table. These are the sizes we suggest when looking for rectangular tables. Again, manufacturers may offer different recommendations, and you might be able to add more seating for a tighter fit.

• 4′ long seats 4
• 5-6′ long seats 6
• 7′ long seats 8
• 8-9′ long seats 10
• 10-11′ seats 12

Go square

If your room is square, a square table, like a round one, makes for a more intimate dining experience because everyone is an equal distance apart. Square tables compliment best in square rooms because the shape mimics the room. It is also a great solution when you have a small guest list – a large table can be off-putting. You can always put two square tables together and make a rectangular table for special occasions.

With so many table options, investing in the right table can be overwhelming. We hope with these helpful tips you will have no trouble picking out what table best fits your lifestyle and needs of your family. Happy gathering!