The number one rule: Your dining table has to fit your dining area! But a dining table is a deceptively large piece of furniture, and you need to account for space around it, too.
“In addition to the footprint of the table, you’ll want three feet of breathing room on all sides — and more is better — to comfortably sit in a chair and move around the space
Next, think about how you’re going to use the table. “Figure that each place at the table needs 22 to 24 inches of table space and that larger-scale chairs will require more
visual weight” of a piece of furniture can really influence how big it feels in a room. It may technically fit, but it’ll seem huge if it’s a dark or bulky piece or if it’s too close to other furniture
If you’re tight on space, consider options like leaves that allow the table to extend. “These let you customize the table for different entertainment needs and party sizes
Consider your needs before settling on shape
Square and rectangular tables are the most common, so you’ll find the greater number of choices there with styles, sizes and extendable options. But a round or oval table can give you a little more space to move around since it cuts off the corners but still has a good surface area. “For tighter, rectangular spaces, the oval might be the best option
“Round or oval tables can be great for parties and conversation because there’s no head of the table
The base — usually legs, a pedestal, or a trestle — can have an effect on how many people you can fit at a table. “You just want to be sure the leg space isn’t being invaded by the supports,
If you want to be more flexible with your guests, pay attention to the leg width and where the legs are placed. “In general, a table with thinner legs, or where the legs are at the corners, will make it easier to squeeze an extra chair in
With a pedestal or trestle table, you have more flexibility to add more people to the table. “A center base is the best option to squeeze people in
Trestle tables can give you flexibility along the sides of the table, but can limit space at the ends of it. Look closely at how much space there is between the edge of the table and where the trestle supports are attached to make sure there’s room for your knees.
Choose the right table materials for your style
■ Wood: Solid wood is a classic material because it is durable and easy to repair. Pine, acacia, mango and teak are popular, less expensive options. “Solid wood is the most popular, though it’s often the most expensive
■ Veneer/Wood-Look: Wood veneer is often a more affordable alternative to solid wood. Here a very thin layer of solid wood (or material printed to look like wood) is glued to a plywood or other wood core
■ Stone and Stone-Look: Stone tabletops can include marble, quartz composite or cast stone (like cement). Stone is durable but can be porous and can absorb stains easily
■ Glass: Glass tabletops can include clear, frosted or tinted versions. They’re relatively inexpensive and “can create a feeling of space and openness
■ Metal: Metal, including stainless steel, brass, zinc and lacquered or painted versions of these, is used more frequently for table bases than tops. “Metal is durable and not easily damaged
■ Plastic and Laminates: Man-made materials, either molded into a shape or glued onto plywood or another core, are an inexpensive option
