How to choose a dining table

A dining table is the focal piece in your dining area that defines the style and the overall space. There are many catchy options you can use to make a statement. However, choosing a dining table needs to be done carefully because the table is such a large, space-defining piece.

Shopping for a dining table can take a day or weeks, depending on how much time you devote to the project each day and how many options you want to sort through. Sometimes you can find the right piece straight away and sometimes it takes a while. Sometimes you even want to make a dining table yourself if the price is too high or if you can’t find what you want. How do I find or make a table that fits perfectly?

Be mindful of the size of your dining area

The most distinctive feature of the dining table is its size. The size of your dining room will of course be a big factor in the size of your table. First, measure the room where you want to place the dining table.

If you want more space to roam around when not entertaining, consider drop leaf or extendable dining table designs as well. This way you can remove part of the table or fold down part if you need extra space. This is especially useful for smaller dining rooms.

Choose a style and material

Your next step is to choose the style you want for a dining table. All dining tables have specific details in materials and construction that enhance specific styles for specific room types. Classic homes do well with rich wood textures like mahogany and dark espresso finishes. Contemporary houses go well with minimalist and modern styles. Industrial styles work well for a dining table that uses metal elements such as stainless steel table legs etc – there are many styles and types of tables to choose from!

side notes

That being said, many open plan living concepts do not have a designated dining area. Instead, create a dining area wherever you place the table. Visual elements like a floor rug can create a certain organization in the room. Smaller and slimmer tables usually work in this style as they don’t overwhelm or clutter up the open space.

Remember that finding a larger piece of furniture is often an intuitive process. Sometimes the right piece just “speaks” to you. Keep the style of your room in mind and finding the perfect piece can be easier.