Believe it or not, the holidays are just around the corner, and you’ll soon be filling your home with friends and family. Where are you going to seat all those hungry guests? If your dining table isn’t up to snuff – too small, too rickety, too weathered and worn — this is the perfect time to consider something new. Get excited because you have lots and lots of fabulous options – furniture makers are designing dining tables and chairs that are so delicious, they may upstage your banquet.
Since a dining table is an investment, it’s essential you pick one that fits you, your home and your lifestyle. Here are five key questions I ask all my customers at Nell Hill’s to help them pick the perfect table.
1. Will the table be used every day or only when you entertain?
How do you use your dining table? Is it the hub of your home, the place where your family gathers for every meal, where the kids do their homework or the spot where you spread out your current project, like the yoga bag you’re sewing or the scrapbook you’re designing? Or do you use it only on special occasions, like when you entertain for the holidays or an occasional formal dinner party?
If your table will be in constant use by an active family, you’ll want one that can take a lot of abuse and still look lovely. I’d steer you to a table that has a more distressed top, so any nicks or dings won’t be as noticeable. Or, one that has a tough, durable surface that’s also easy to clean. Surround it with chairs that are strong and comfortable, that resist stains and strains.
If your dining table resides in a formal dining room and is only used a few times of year, you can pick a table that is a bit more fine and fragile, eye candy in a beautifully decorated dining room. However, I still encourage you to get a table that can handle the rigor of a robust dinner party. What good is a gorgeous dining table if it’s not surrounded by laughing friends and family? Don’t let your dining room become a museum – fill it with people you love.
2. How many people do you need to seat at the table?
At my house, the magic number is 18. Even though our family is growing, Dan and I are still determined to jam everyone around the dining table during the holidays and other special family gatherings. It’s a tight squeeze, and we are all elbow to elbow, but it’s worth it to having everyone together, laughing and telling stories.
When you entertain your family and friends for the holidays, how many folks do you usually have? If it’s at all possible, select a dining table that can seat them all. If you’re like me, that means having a table with extra leaves – sections of table top you can insert to make the table longer or wider.
Along with added tabletop space, you’ll need to figure in extra seating when you entertain a large group. In the past, I’ve been notoriously bad about ensuring all my holiday guests have a place to sit. Since I’m all about making the table pretty, I didn’t stop and count how many people I had to cram pack in until the last minute. Then I’d scramble to find something for everyone to sit on. One time Dan had to sit on an ottoman, with his chin just clearing the top of the table.
I’ve gotten wiser through the years and have a plan in place for overflow seating. I like to pull in attractive side chairs to serve as dining chairs. The beauty of having extra chairs that look great alone is that when you don’t need them for seating, you can display them on either side of your buffet, pull them up to a desk or use them in your living room. If we’re having a big group at our house, I bring out the nice-looking wooden folding chairs I store in the garage. For large parties, I often use ballroom chairs, which you can rent from most event management companies.
3. What is the style of the room where you’ll dine?
Your dining table needs to harmonize with the style of the room in which it will be placed, whether that’s a formal dining room, a kitchen or a great room with a dining nook. Notice I didn’t say the table needs to “match” the style. I really like it when people mix things up, weaving together different sorts of furniture to keep the look of their interior design interesting, like it’s evolved over time.
Is the space traditional, contemporary or transitional? Formal or informal? What about the overall style of your home? You want the table to look like it belongs. I picked a very formal dining table for my very formal dining room because I wanted the room to be elegant and timeless. But for my kitchen nook, where Dan and I eat most of our meals, I chose a rough and rugged farm table, pictured above.
Whatever style of dining table you’re considering, make sure you will love it just as much in 10 years, that it will be large enough and still capture your personal style. You don’t want to invest in a piece you will grow tired of or outgrow.
4. What size table and chairs will fit your room?
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make when purchasing a dining table is getting one that is too large for their space. Remember, you will need to allow guests plenty of room to push out their chairs and walk around the room. You may also want the room to hold additional pieces of furniture, like a buffet or hutch.
At minimum, you need to allow a berth of 36 inches around the table just to pull out standard-sized dining chairs. If you’re using larger chairs, like the gorgeous upholstered chairs my friend Rich put around his dining table in the photo above, you’ll need even more room. Before you start shopping for your table, first measure the space where the table will be located to determine the maximum amount you have for the table and chairs. If your table will have added leaves, don’t forget to figure in the extra room they, and additional chairs, will require.
5. What type of chairs do you want around your table?
Picking chairs to go with your dining table is lots of fun these days because the sky is the limit. No longer are we confined to matchy-matchy dining sets, where the table and chairs are exactly the same. Today’s dining table and chair combos are exciting and dynamic, giving you the freedom to tailor them to reflect your unique design style.
If you want to mix things up, the only barometer you need to follow is your own comfort zone. For some people, that’s pairing a table with a set of slightly different chairs, like you’ll find in my dining room. For others, that means an odd assortment of dissimilar chairs. Just make sure the end product is pleasing to your eye and suits the room and your overall home design. If you need ideas, come into Nell Hill’s and see how we’ve paired tables and chairs, or thumb through decorating magazines and books.
One of my favorite looks right now is using wing backed upholstered chairs for host and hostess chairs. Furniture makers have reinvented the traditional wing back chairs, and the result is really exciting, timeless and fresh. The only thing you have to watch out for is the height of the chair seat – many are too low to use at a dining table. So measure and make sure before you buy.
A lot of our customers really like using benches instead of dining chairs so they can seat a varying number of people. Some use short benches at the end of rectangular dining tables when they entertain so they can fit in a few more folks. Another fun variation is to use a settee or a pair of settees on the sides of a table. It’s just the right amount of space for a grandparent to sit flanked by two grandkids. What could be better at Thanksgiving?
Here are a few of our most popular dining tables at Nell Hill’s right now:
Jupe tables, a style that has been around for centuries, are one of my absolute favorites because they comes with leaves that store right under the tabletop.
This Jupe table is made of European oak, and I think it’s just beautiful. When it’s small, it’s just the right size for an intimate dinner for two. Add a few leaves, and it’s a party!
Not bad legs, huh? I think this one is a keeper!
Farm tables are wildly popular right now. Everyone seems to be captivated by these long, broad tables, held up on strong trestle bases. They are a great pick if you have a big group to feed, or if you occasionally want to use your dining table as a workspace.
As much as I have fallen for today’s contemporary look, I’m still a huge fan of traditional, formal furnishings, especially in dining rooms. I think a lovely, formal dining table and chairs is a great investment. They never go out of style or lose their appeal, so you can hand them down from one generation to the next.
Next Week … Buffets are one of the most versatile pieces of furniture you can own. Next week I’ll show you how to use them in your home, plus give some tips on how to pick the one that’s best for you.
P.S. Don’t miss a bit of Nell Hill’s news – stay up to date on my favorite finds, new arrivals at the stores and all our special events by checking the Nell Hill’s Facebook page every day. You don’t have to have a Facebook page yourself to look in on the fun, but if you’re already on Facebook, “like” us today!
Dining tables are at the heart of every home. A dining table is a place to share a meal, bond with family, and socialise with friends. When people come together in the house, everyone gathers around the dining table. It’s where we share stories, catch up with friends and family and enjoy our favourite meals. Whether you love family mealtimes, hosting or enjoy sharing an intimate dinner for two, having a functional and inviting dining table is essential.
Depending on your unique needs and space limitations, there is an ideal style, size, and design of dining table for your home. A well-informed purchase means you will enjoy your table for years to come.
There are several things to consider before purchasing a new dining table. If you’re shopping for a new table for your home, it’s essential to be conscious of the following:
Before shopping for a new table, ensure you carefully measure up your space - mark out the area on the floor with masking tape to help visualise the table, and don’t forget to measure access via doorways and staircases!
More information further down to help you measure your dining room
It's important to consider the function of the table and the space it needs to work with - round tables work well in small areas such as an open plan kitchen, whereas a rectangular extending table would be a good solution for a home that entertains regularly, but doesn't need to take up a large footprint day to day.
Another important aspect of dining table buying is determining the number of seats you need. If you have a large family or love a lavish dinner party, you’ll want to invest in a table that can easily seat everyone. You may want to consider an extending table, if you are looking to host larger parties on the occasion.
Naturally, the design of your dining table will play an important part in your buying decision. From the shape and colour to the material and finish, choosing a dining table that compliments your dining room decor will ensure you achieve a look to be proud of.
Comfort should be a priority when buying a dining table. You want to be able to sit down, relax and enjoy your dining experience, so a table and seating that feels comfortable is also something to think about.
Before you even begin browsing for your new dining table, measuring your space is a good idea. You don't want to fall in love with a dining table that won't fit! Our collection of modern dining tables comes in various sizes to suit any dining room.
To begin:
To give you an idea of the type of dining table that might suit your requirements, here are some typical measurements for different types of dining tables:
You need to consider how many people are going to fit around your dining table. If you use your dining table a lot, how many people in your family will regularly sit around it? If you are hosting social occasions, you should also take this into consideration. Is the primary function for family meals or entertaining big groups of friends and relatives?
How many people you need to fit around your dining table may also influence your choice of shape. A round table, such as the Kigumi Table, is ideal for socialising. Rectangular dining tables, such as the Cross Extending Table, can be more useful when you need some extra capacity for certain occasions. If you have the space for your dining table to extend and want the option to have more people fit around it, an extending dining table can be a great choice. Extending tables can be circular, such as the Dulwich Round Table, or rectangular in shape, like the Dulwich Extending Dining Table.
If you only have a small dining space, you'll need to choose the shape and size of your dining table carefully. Too big, and it will look cramped and out of proportion with the rest of the room. Too small, and you'll have trouble getting many people around it, which will limit your options for dinner parties and other social gatherings.
It is therefore pretty important that you choose a dining table that fits the shape of your room. Long thin tables with bench seating can be ideal for rectangular rooms. Round tables can fit snugly into corners and still get people sitting all the way around it. If you plan to put your dining table in a bay window, a round table may also work best as it will follow the room's shape. The table colour/finish can also play a part, with light options working best in smaller dining areas to add a sense of space and glass tables that reflect lots of light can also be a good choice.
If you have a large dining room or dining area, you will want to fill that space with a dining table of the proper proportions. A large dining table can significantly impact and elevate your interior space creating an elegant and impressive feature in the room. Again the shape of the table may depend on the shape of your room and how many people you want to seat, but if you do have a larger area to work with, the options are limitless.
If you're shopping for a new dining table, there are many different materials to consider. The type of material you choose will impact the look and feel of your dining room. Some of the most popular material options include:
Hardwood
Hardwood tables crafted from quality wood are sophisticated, timeless and long-lasting. They're great for both casual or formal settings and add warmth and class to your dining space.
A metal table can look sleek and stylish. If choosing a metal table, make sure that you select a hard-wearing, long-lasting metal that is rust-resistant to keep your table looking great and fully functional for years to come.
Glass tables are contemporary and easy to clean. They look great in modern dining spaces with lots of light.
If choosing a wooden dining table, you should also consider the finish of the dining table you choose. Consider your current interior and how the dining table will look in the room. Do you want it to blend in seamlessly with your existing decor or be a showstopping piece of furniture that really draws the eye?
The finish on a wooden table can also help to protect it. Whether you love a delicate and contemporary light oak finish or prefer the opulence of a darker walnut finish, invest in tables that are designed to last.
Choosing a new dining table isn't just about functionality; you'll want something that looks great too. A stylish dining table can completely change the room, creating a welcoming, inviting space for you to enjoy family time and socialise. Dining tables come in many designs, from sleek and modern to traditional and homely.
Some of the most popular shapes for a dining table are:
A rectangular table offers plenty of space for eating and setting down plates and drinks. This could also be a good option if you want to make the best use of your space.
Each side equidistant from the other, a square table offers symmetry and is a popular shape for couples and individuals, particularly those looking for a smaller dining area.
Round dining tables can be ideal for small families or intimate dinner parties. The soft edges of a rounded table can give a more traditional feel and a cosier setting.
If you prefer a rounded edge but need to fit more people around your dining table, an oval shape can be the perfect solution.
When shopping for a dining table, you can choose a design that aligns with your vision and current aesthetic. Whether you want something simple and classic or bold and modern, there is a table to match. There are a huge variety of different dining table designs to choose from, and to ensure you make the right choice; it's important to take the time to consider your desired aesthetic.
Choosing the right shade for your dining table is also essential. Do you want something classic and neutral or bright and eye-catching? As with most furniture, dining tables come in a range of colours, so you can pick the exact shade to compliment your current interiors or even paint your table to match.
If you aren't sure what to pick, using a colour wheel can help you determine which colours complement each other the best. If you opt for an oak wood dining table, deep shades such as burnt orange, lime green, and berry red can bring out the warmer tones, where cooler colours will create a more natural, tranquil space.
The majority of our dining tables are offered in a range of neutral colours to compliment a variety of styles, such as the Cross Fixed Table that can come in black stain, walnut, or oak.
Of course, your new dining table needs to fit in with your lifestyle, so it's vital to consider the practicalities of your new dining table too. Does your table need to be multi-functional? Will it just be a place to eat, or will it also serve as a place to prepare food, or for the kids to do homework, or even double up as a place for you to work? Do you often have social gatherings and need a table that can seat lots of people when you do?
By factoring in who will be using it and what for, you can choose a table that will serve you best. A busy family lifestyle where you need a table everyone can relax around might be very different from one that is mostly used for fine dining and special occasions. If you want the best of both worlds an extending table could be a fantastic option as it can stay smaller and not take up much space day to day and then extend whenever you need it to.
Dining tables are an investment, so maintaining them is important to ensure they last a long time. Here are some tips for keeping your new dining table in fantastic condition:
It's essential to clean your table frequently. Wipe it down after meals to remove crumbs and stains. You can also use a tablecloth to protect the table from spills and everyday wear and tear. Only use sprays and polishes that are labelled as safe for the material your table is made of.
Placemats and coasters will protect your table from unsightly watermarks and heat damage.
Protecting your table from the elements will also help it to last longer. If you place your table by a window, you may want to cover it when not in use to protect it from sunlight damage.
Light scratches may be removed on wooden tables through sanding and staining.
Finally, when you are shopping for a dining table, you need to ensure that it is durable and built to last. All our dining tables at Case are designed by world-renowned furniture designers and manufactured by skilled craftsmen to ensure they are robust, durable, and last for decades.
For more detailed information about how to care for your dining table, why not read our dining table care guides?
You naturally have to consider the price when investing in a new dining table. Dining tables vary hugely in price, which means that everyone will be able to find a suitable dining table within their budget. However, it is worth factoring in the link between cost and quality. While plenty of low-cost dining tables are available, cheaper tables tend to be crafted from cheaper materials and, therefore, may not last as long. If you are searching for a unique designer piece that makes a statement in your home and is crafted from the finest quality materials, the price will naturally be higher.
Whatever your budget, it's always a good idea to enquire about a warranty before you buy. Most reputable manufacturers should offer a guarantee to ensure that you are happy with your purchase and have the right to return it if it is faulty. All our dining tables come with a two-year warranty as standard.
If you're ready to invest in a new dining table, keep these tips in mind to ensure you find a table that suits your lifestyle and space. A great dining table can be a focal point in the home, and a place where wonderful memories are made, so make sure you choose one that is both stylish and functional.
Now that you know everything you need to buy a dining table, you can confidently invest in your next purchase fully informed and with peace of mind.
Our collection of modern dining tables, designed by award-winning designers, offers you a wide range of shapes, colours, and styles to ensure you find a table that perfectly suits your needs.
Shop our dining table collection now, or contact a member of our team here, and we can provide more details or guidance on any of the products in our range.
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