Dining Tables

How to choose the right dining table

Every home is different, so before you choose it's worth thinking about how much space you have, how many people you want to seat, which shape suits the look you're creating, and which material you prefer.

What size dining table do I need?

A good rule of thumb is to have around 60cm of table width per seat at the table to have a cosy setting without your diners catching elbows as they eat, but if you are looking to use dining chairs with arm rests, it would be sensible to account for a little extra width. For example, a comfortable rectangular 4-seater dining table setup should be at least 120cm long to sit two guests on each side. Also be sure to consider the space around the table so you can easily navigate around seated guests without having to ask them to breathe in too much any time you want to get up. Ideally try to plan for 90cm clearance between the edge of the table and your walls or surrounding furniture to keep an open path.

Most of our dining tables are around 75cm high, however not all tabletops have the same depth. Table depth is an often-overlooked dimension in the buying process with so much focus on number of seats, so keep in mind that a deeper table will allow for more than just plate settings and give space for other dishes or table decorations in the centre.

You probably have a good idea from the outset on how many people you want to sit around the table. A 2-seater dining table offers a small and compact option ideal for couples or using as an additional table in the kitchen and a 4-seater dining table is a great choice for smaller homes that can still sit the whole family. If you have a bigger space to fill, then a 6-seater dining table or 8-seater dining table provides more scope for hosting friends and family.

Are extendable dining tables worth it?

We certainly think so. An extendable dining table is the perfect option for any home that likes to host guests and needs the extra seating at the table but can't commit to maintaining a larger table permanently. With flip top, drop leaf and other easy-to-use extendable designs, you can convert a smaller table into a larger one in a matter of minutes, then revert when required. One thing to keep in mind is that you will typically need somewhere to store the extra dining chairs that won't fit around the table until it's extended.

What table shape suits your room?

The most common table shapes are rectangular dining tables, which seat the most people for their footprint and fit well into larger and longer rooms. For smaller spaces and square rooms, a round dining table or square dining table offers a good option. Both sit neatly in the centre of the room and are great at encouraging conversation, and some smaller table designs feature a pedestal base that opens up legroom underneath. Finally, an oval dining table fits similar spaces to a rectangular table but brings a softer look without the hard corners.

What material is right for my table?

We offer tables in many popular materials from classic wood to stone and glass designs, but what is the best option for your setup? A wooden dining table is one of the most popular and versatile choices as it is hard-wearing and can fit a range of looks from more modern homes to a more traditional farmhouse aesthetic. Engineered wood tables can provide a more budget-friendly option while retaining a strong and durable frame, and for those looking to invest a bit more, our solid oak dining tables offer a premium hardwood option with excellent durability and a grain that develops with age.

If you are looking for something a bit different, maybe consider a glass dining table which is ideal for a contemporary home, or if you favour a more industrial look, a stone dining table offers a striking and exceptionally hard-wearing table surface.

Complete the look

Once you have your perfect dining table selected, you can explore our range of dining chairs and dining benches to provide the seating. While most homes will go for perfectly co-ordinating chairs, others may mix and match chairs and benches to create their own custom look. You could also look to add a jug, vase or ornament from our home décor range, and if you have the space, adding the right ceiling light above the table can light up any family gathering and make your dining space a real feature in your home.