How to Choose the Right Dining Room Table

Family Articles | August 6, 2008

There are several factors to consider before you decide what kind of dining room table to buy: the size (to fit the proportions of the room), shape (consider your requirements and space constraints), material (wood, glass, wrought iron etc.) and design (modern, traditional, minimalist etc.)

A dining room table is most likely to be the focal point of your dining room or dining area, making it the main item of dining furniture. This is the reason that you should give a lot of thought to the kind of dining room table that you get for your dining room. The points to ponder are size, shape, material used, design, whether or not you need a table pad, whether you want to opt for a dining room set or mix and match separates; you need to examine all these points before deciding what is right for you.

Size: The size of the dining table is of course one of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a dining room table. Too big and it can make the room look small and cluttered; too small and it can look rather lost in a large room. So when you go shopping for a dining table, remember to take along the size, measurements and proportions of the dining area. Ideally, I dining table should be big enough for the size of the room but it should also leave enough room around the sides for easy movement and also leave space for any additional pieces of furniture that you may want to add, such as a hutch or a sideboard or buffet or even a mini bar or drinks trolley.

Shape: The rule of thumb is that if you have a square shaped room, a square dining table may be a good idea and if your dining area is rectangular in shape, the more conventional rectangular one will be a good bet. Also a very good option is the circular or round dining room table. This is the shape to go for when the proportions of your dining area are small and space is a constraint. Round dining tables are great space savers. Also consider the number of chairs that you want for the dining room: if all you need are 4 chairs it does not make sense to choose a rectangular table, because 4 chairs placed at a rectangular table can look pretty odd.

Material: Another thing to consider is what is the dining table to be made of? Glass topped tables are very attractive, wood is durable, wrought iron can also be an option but is not always practical. If you like glass topped tables but are afraid of wear and tear, you can opt for a table pad that will protect the table from heat, humidity, stains, spills and scratches. Custom table pads are available for any kind of dining table.

Design: Your dining room should form a harmonious whole with the rest of the house so if your drawing room is minimalist or starkly modern, so should be your dining room furniture. There are some wonderful contemporary designs available these days, such as pedestal dining tables, modern or contemporary shapes, tables with fold away portions, two tiered dining tables, tables with a rotating center, the options are practically limitless!

With some application of mind, you can opt for dining room furniture that you can live happily with for many years to come!

Article Tags: Dining Room Table, Dining Room, Room Table, Dining Table

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It may be a good idea to check out the matching dining tables, chairs and hutches. Buying a complete dining set will save you a lot of time. Although mixing and matching stuff may give you more creative satisfaction.