5 Things to Consider Before Buying a
Dining Table
At first, you might think that it sounds simple when it comes to buying a dining table. You go into a furniture store, find the set that you like, and voila, there you have it!
But in reality, it is not as straightforward as that. Like many things, there are considerations to make when you want to furnish your dining room.
A dining table set is the centerpiece of the dining room. It complements and influences the mood and tone of the dining room, so it is important that you choose the right one.
Here are five considerations, let’s hop to it.
01. The size and space of the dining table
The most important consideration that needs to be made is space. It's crucial that a dining room, or any room for that matter, doesn't become overly packed or crammed with furniture. The amount of empty space in a room is just as significant as the amount of space filled with furniture or other items.
Your guests will not feel comfortable in a dining room that is overly cramped. The table would appear larger than it is, and the setting would be stuffy.
As a general guideline, each individual should be assigned a 2-foot berth so that they may sit and dine comfortably without bumping against their neighbours. The distance between the table and any wall should be 3 to 4 feet. Remember to choose a size that fits comfortably while also allowing for traffic movement.
02. Height
The majority of dining tables are made to a standard height. This is usually between 710 and 760 cm (28 and 30 inches). If you aren't picky about dining table height, this shouldn't be too much of a headache.
However, if you are, this could be a crucial factor to consider. If you have a family member who is confined to a wheelchair at home, it is critical that the table has enough height for the wheelchair's arms to pass beneath the table.
Aside from such special considerations, a dining table's height should be low enough to give an ideal resting spot for the arms.
At the same time, it should be tall enough to minimise knee-knocking and to allow activities such as eating or working on a laptop to be done comfortably without bending too far over.
03. Shape
Now for the exciting part: what shape do you want your dining table to be? Round tables have a higher capacity than rectangular or square tables. It also allows for more social interactions because you won't have to talk across the table if you want to chat with someone seated a few spaces away.
Rectangular or square dining tables, on the other hand, are more space-conscious, allowing you to easily occupy nooks or rooms. In contrast, a round table, like a round sofa, demands a large amount of area to justify its design.
Round tables, overall, work better in a home where family meals are frequently shared. Smaller houses, on the other hand, benefit from square or rectangular tables. These are, of course, only suggestions.
A square table works just fine as well and a round table works just as well in a smaller space. In the end, it is determined by your seating preferences and the size of your dining room.
04. Style and Material
The materials you select have a significant impact on the longevity and appearance of your dining table. If you want your dining table to last a long time, choose hardwoods, tempered glass, metals, or even mold-injected plastics.
Lightweight or flat-pack dining table designs made of manufactured wood such as plywood, veneer, or fibreboard will have a substantially shorter life cycle.
Choose a weathered wood dining table if you want a more rustic, natural, and airy dining area. All of the old nicks and scrapes can be extremely appealing, and they should have a great farmhouse feel to it.
Don't overlook glass or marble if you want something sleek and stylish. Marble tops or glass can be exquisite, making your dining area a very contemporary look.
05. Features
Dining tables, like any item, have tricks. A dining table can be elevated or made to serve a certain purpose by adding certain elements. Table leaves, which are extendable or collapsible folding tables, are the most popular dining table characteristics and are generally used to expand a table to accommodate more guests at a gathering.
You can leave your dining table arranged as a 6-seater until you have a party. Then you may extend your table to make it an 8-seater.
Placemats, napkins, tablecloths, and other dining accessories can be stored on dining tables with storage. This helps in the decluttering and organisation of your dining room.
For more home inspirations, guides and news, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.