A dining table is a staple in every house. It’s not only a place to eat—it is a space to enjoy celebrations, play games, catch up on work, or spend quality time with your loved ones.
Getting a dining table might seem easy at first. Pick a table, pay the price, and bring it home, right? But it’s not as easy as it sounds, especially if you want something that lasts for at least five to ten years.
So, how can you choose a dining table that is stylish, durable, and in your budget? Don’t worry because we will help you find the best one.
If you are in the market for a new dining table, you need to keep a few considerations in mind before making the purchase. Here are our top tips and tricks to help you find a dining table that ticks all the right boxes.
Determine the Purpose of Your Dining Table
Think of your dining table as the heart of your home, where you gather multiple times a day to share meals, laughter, and conversations. Before you rush into buying a dining table, you need to know what purpose it will serve.
First off, let’s consider your lifestyle. Do you love hosting dinner parties, or do you prefer cozy family meals? A large rectangular table like the Naples Dining Set is perfect for big gatherings, but a small, round setting, such as the Havana Dining Set gives a more intimate vibe. Knowing how you will use your dining table will help you choose the right size, shape, and material.
You also need to consider what other reasons you will be using it, such as:
- Working
- Helping kids with their homework
- Game nights
- Doing jigsaw puzzles
Next, think about your space. Is your dining area spacious and airy, or is it a cozy nook tucked away in the corner? Understanding your space constraints helps you pick a table that fits seamlessly without overwhelming the room or leaving it feeling empty.
Then, figure out your style and aesthetics. Are you into sleek modern design or elegant traditional aesthetics? Your dining table sets the tone for the entire room, so choose one that complements your decor and reflects your personality.
And let's not forget functionality. Do you need a table with built-in storage for extra dinnerware, or perhaps one that can be extended to accommodate unexpected guests? Consider how you will use your table day to day and choose a design that suits you best.
Measuring the Dimensions of Your Space
The first step to buying a dining table is measuring the exact dimensions of your space.
Roll your sleeves up and get that measuring tape out. Measure the exact size of your space, covering every nook and cranny.
Why all this fuss about measuring? Well, it's simple. You want to know exactly how much space you're working with. You don’t want to get a table that’s too big or small for your room. Imagine having to cram a massive table into a room that can barely hold a small table. Or imagine having a big empty room with a too-small table inside it.
With the right measurements, finding the perfect dining table size becomes easy. You'll know exactly what dimensions will fit comfortably in your space, leaving plenty of room for you and your guests to wine, dine, and chat the night away.
Selecting the Table Shape
Choosing the shape of your dining table is like finding the perfect puzzle piece for your space—it needs to fit just right. Here is a breakdown to help you decide which shape would be the best option for you:
Rectangular
Rectangular tables are classic and versatile. If you want to accommodate a large number of people, you should invest in the Burgess Dining Table or the Verone Dining Set.
Square
Square tables are a great choice for cozy gatherings, typically seating anywhere from two to six people comfortably.
These tables are excellent for creating an intimate environment, making them ideal for smaller families or intimate dinner parties.
Circle
If you want an intimate setting, there is no better option than round dining tables. With no corners to create distance, guests can interact and connect better with each other because of proximity.
For those with cozy dining rooms, consider getting the Oregon Dining Table or the Havana Dining Set. Their round table shape perfectly complements any space, maximizing seating without overwhelming the room. Plus, its versatility allows you to add an extra seat if an unexpected visitor drops by.
Oval
Like its rectangular counterpart, an oval dining table is an excellent choice for larger families, comfortably accommodating more than six people.
What sets the oval table apart is that it can fit in narrower rooms, occupying less space. It can also seat more people because of a lack of corners.
Choosing the Best Materials
Choosing the best material for your dining table boils down to the following key factors:
- How do you intend to use the dining table?
- What is your aesthetic style?
- Are you willing to spend time on cleaning and maintaining the table?
We have listed the most common dining table materials with their pros and cons to help you decide which one works best for you.
Wood
Pros
- It is sturdy and can withstand daily use.
- Each piece is unique with its distinct grain patterns and markings.
- Wood can adapt to any decor scheme, making it a versatile choice.
- You can sand out any scratches, dents, or stains.
Cons
- Solid wood is more expensive than other materials.
- It requires more maintenance to keep it looking its best.
- They are heavy, making it difficult to move around.
Veneer
Pros
- It is a cost-effective and budget-friendly substitute for wood.
- Veneer comes in a wide variety of grains, colors, and finishes.
- It is less prone to warping and splitting due to temperature changes.
- Veneer is easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Veneer is more prone to scratches, dents, and stains.
- It is susceptible to water damage.
- You will require professional assistance to repair the damaged veneer.
Glass
Pros
- Glass has a sleek and modern look.
- Glass tables offer a sense of openness and spaciousness.
- They are super easy to clean and maintain.
- They complement different interior styles.
- Glass tables are not overly expensive.
Cons
- More prone to chips and scratches.
- Glass is a magnet for fingerprints and smudges.
Metal
Pros
- Metal can withstand spills, scratches, and general wear and tear.
- Metal tables are easy to wipe and clean.
- It comes in all shapes and sizes.
- For outdoor dining tables, metal tables are a great choice.
Cons
- Metal furniture can get dented easily.
- It might not offer the same warmth as a wooden dining table.
- Metal tables can develop rust.
Opting for the Right Chairs
Choosing the right chairs to accompany your dining set is all about compatibility and style. Here's a quick guide on how to make sure your chairs are the perfect match:
- Comfort—First things first, comfort is key. You want your guests to stick around, not squirm in discomfort. Look for chairs with padded seats or ergonomic designs to keep everyone happy and relaxed.
- Aesthetics— Your chairs should complement the style of your dining table. Choose chairs that go with the dining space look whether you're going for a rustic farmhouse vibe or a sleek modern look.
- Size— Make sure your chairs are the right size. You don't want chairs that are too tall or too short, throwing off the balance of your space.
- Maintenance—Think about how easy cleaning and maintaining your chairs will be. If you have messy eaters or young children, you might opt for stain-resistant chairs.
- Cost—Finally, consider your budget. There are lots of pricing options for chairs. Determine how much you're willing to spend and shop accordingly. Remember, quality chairs are an investment that will last for years to come.
Get Your Hands on the Best Dining Table and Chair Set with Furniture Roots
Invest in quality, style, and comfort with Furniture Roots!
From sleek and modern designs to timeless classics, Furniture Roots offers a wide range of dining set options to suit every taste and space. From our signature Mount Martha Dining Table to the luxurious Cober Dining Table, we have you covered.
So why settle for anything less than the best?
Head to Furniture Roots today and let us help you create the dining area of your dreams.
Your perfect table and chairs are waiting for you—let's make your dining room the envy of all your guests!
