The best dining table for you will be one that works for your budget, is solidly constructed, fits in your space and has a style you’ll love for years. There are some core factors you should consider when choosing a good one.
First, be wary of giving into trends, a good table can last a lifetime and witness generations. Keep it simple, keep it sturdy.
Think about how it would feel to sit at a table your grandparents have had dinner at.
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. So whether it’s part of a multiuse space or a separate dining room, start by measuring the length and width of the area you can dedicate to the dining table. Then subtract about six feet from those two measurements to get a target dining table length and width.
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.
The “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.
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.
A good dining table will be sturdy and well-made, with a finish that withstands heavy use and shows little obvious wear.