How to Choose the Perfect Dining Table For Your Space

BY CINDY CASEY
15 MAY 2023

Our stylist Cindy examines the 3 most important things to
consider when choosing a dining table.

A dining table is one of the most fundamental pieces of furniture you will have in your home, not only is it a place to sit and eat, but also a place to entertain and make wonderful memories. Size, shape and style are the three important decisions you will need to make to create this functional area.

Size

Generally, when determining the size of the dining table you require, the rule of thumb is to allow 90-100cm of clearance on each side of the table. This amount of space allows you to pull out a chair from the table and also be able to walk behind when people are seated at the table.

RULE OF THUMB: Allow 90-100cm clearance on each side of your table

When looking at spacing around the table don’t forget to consider other furniture pieces in the room, such as a buffet or dresser, as then you will need to measure from this point. A practical way to figure it all out is to create an outline of your table by using a measuring tape, or masking tape, or even some books, from there, it will give you a much better idea of what will work best in the space you have in the room.

PHOTO: The Bengal Dining Table with Black Enterprise Chairs

Shape

The most common tables are rectangle as these work best in long narrow spaces. They come in a variety of lengths and widths. Another practical idea is an extension table as this gives you the option to extend your space when entertaining. Square, Round or Oval shapes are best for smaller spaces as they take up less space and are easier to walk around. A square table looks great in a square room and round, or oval tables are best for small rooms as this shape still provides a good surface area to place food and all three shapes bring people closer together, so it is great for conversation and ideal for parties, and card nights.

PHOTO: The Nandi X Leg Oval Table with Brown PU Infinity Chairs

Style

Now that we have chosen the shape and size, style should play a big part in your next part of your decision. Whether it’s the Contemporary, Hamptons or a Country look you’re going for, we have a dining table to suit every interior design style. For a contemporary style home, you may wish to choose a natural timber top and metal legs for a slim line look, for a Hamptons home you may prefer a white or whitewash and sculptured legs and for something a little more country the refectory leg may just be you.

PHOTO: The Hamptons Dining Table with White Berkshire Chairs

Seating

Chair Seating Guide

100 x 100cm size square table seats 4
120 x 180cm size rectangle table seats 6
200 x 240cm size rectangle table seats 8
240 x 300cm size rectangle table seats 10
120cm size round table seats 4
152cm size round table seats 6

NOTE: This is a guide only. The chair seating width will depend on positioning of the table leg.

A bench is also another simple and effective way of adding a few extra bottoms around a table and will tuck seamlessly away under the table, a bench that seats three will take up as much space as two dining chairs making it a great space saver. So, if you love to entertain in a casual buffet style rather than a more formal sit-down meal, a bench maybe the best the right fit for your home helping the room feel open, spacious, and relaxed.