How To Choose A Dining Table

Published 11/7/2024 by Katt O'Reilly | 5 min read

The dining room is the heart of the home. It’s where you can relax with family and friends and enjoy delicious meals and conversation. It’s where memories are made! A good dining table should last you at least five to ten years, so it’s important to take the time to choose a timeless piece that meets your needs, both now and in the future.

Before you start shopping for the perfect dining setting for your home, take the time to consider the following:

Shape

When it comes to selecting the ideal dining table, the shape you choose can significantly impact both the functionality and aesthetic of your dining space. Whether you're aiming to enhance a cozy nook or accommodate a bustling family gathering, understanding the different table shapes includes rectangular, square and round, can help you make an informed decision that complements your room's layout and your lifestyle. As a clever rule of thumb, always make sure there is at least 30cm between your table and surrounding furniture.

Square dining table

Square dining tables are ideal for compact spaces, providing comfortable seating for up to four people without occupying much floor area. If you value intimate gatherings and engaging conversations with family and friends, this table style is perfect for you. The square shape ensures that everyone is seated at an equal distance, fostering a sense of closeness and making it an excellent choice for activities like board games.

Rectangular dining table

Rectangular dining tables are timeless classics for dining rooms. They are known for their practicality and can offer a significant seating capacity, with even smaller designs accommodating at least six people. When hosting guests, rectangular tables can often be extended or adapted to provide additional space, making them a versatile choice for gatherings and formal meals.

Roung dining table

Round dining tables are an excellent choice for small, unconventional, or multifunctional rooms. They offer a stylish solution that can transform these spaces without revealing the design trick. The absence of sharp corners not only creates a smooth flow but also enhances the overall aesthetic, making round tables a popular and elegant alternative to traditional shapes.

Style

When choosing the perfect dining table for your home, the style is crucial. Whether you're drawn to Scandi, Retro, or Contemporary aesthetics, there’s a dining table that fits each design preference. Here’s a look at some popular styles and the tables that embody them:

Scandi

For a taste of Scandinavian design, consider the Toto 4 Seater Dining Set With Elke Chairs. This compact round table is ideal for smaller spaces and comfortably seats four, making it both practical and stylish. The painted tabletop is easy to clean, and its straightforward assembly means you can enjoy dinner with guests on the same day you bring it home. Complementing the table, the Samba Dining Chair features on-trend oak-look metal legs and a fabric-upholstered seat, offering both comfort and style. The chair’s ease of assembly and substantial 120kg weight capacity enhance its appeal.

Retro

If you're a fan of retro style, the Retro 7 Piece Dining Set with Nicki Chairs will surely capture your heart. The Retro table boasts a mix of solid and engineered timber with a classic oak finish, bringing a nostalgic charm to your dining space. The set includes chairs available in PU tan or grey, allowing you to achieve that quintessential retro look without breaking the bank.

Contemporary

For a modern touch, the Monti 6 Seater Dining Set with Flyn Chairs is an excellent choice. The Flyn Dining Chair features a country contemporary design with olive-toned, textured fabric seats and matte black metal powder-coated legs. With a padded cushion seat and a robust 120kg weight capacity, it combines durability with style. The Monti Dining Table, part of the Monti Range, seats up to six guests and showcases a sleek, modern design with a tempered smoked glass top and a metal powder-coated frame, perfect for a contemporary dining experience.

Material

When choosing a dining table, the material is a key factor influencing both its aesthetic and functionality. Wood is a classic choice, offering durability and a timeless appeal.

Wood

Solid wood tables, made from hardwoods like oak, walnut, or maple, boast a rich, natural grain and can be finished in a variety of stains or paints. On the other hand, engineered wood, which includes MDF (medium-density fiberboard) and particleboard, is often combined with a veneer or laminate. This type of wood is more affordable and can be finished to mimic the look of solid wood..

Glass

Glass dining tables create a sleek, modern look and often feature tempered glass, which is stronger and more durable than regular glass. Tempered glass is also resistant to shattering, making it a practical choice. Clear glass provides an airy, minimalist feel, while frosted glass offers a softer, diffused light that can also conceal fingerprints and smudges.

Metal

For a more contemporary or industrial aesthetic, metal dining tables are a great option. Steel and stainless steel are known for their strength and modern appearance, making them suitable for a variety of styles. Aluminum is another metal choice, valued for its lightweight nature and resistance to rust. This makes it ideal for both modern designs and outdoor furniture.

Discover our latest range of dining tables today! Explore our collection to find the perfect dining table that suits your style and enhances your dining experience.