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Extendable dining table ideas for guests

When it comes to dining it really is the more the merrier. But if you’re stuck for space, bigger get-togethers can be a problem. The solution? A table that grows when you need it and shrinks when you don’t. Here are a few extendable dining table ideas that you might not have thought of.

A dining area formed by two white MELLTORP tables in line, a white REGOLIT lamp, assorted chairs and flowers in a vase.
A dining area formed by two white MELLTORP tables in line, a white REGOLIT lamp, assorted chairs and flowers in a vase.

When two – or more – tables are better than one

An extendable table doesn’t have to be a single table with a fold-out or insert. For practical extendable dining table ideas, buy two tables and put them together. If you choose a series of tables that come in several sizes you can use the larger one as your everyday dining table, and keep the smaller one as your reserve. And why stop at two? Three tables will make your dining table even more flexible.

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A dining area with a white MELLTORP table, a white REGOLIT lamp and assorted seating.
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A table with two jobs

But what do you do with your extra table(s) when they’re not needed in the dining area? Put them to work somewhere else of course. When this table is not helping out as a dining table extension, it’s put against the wall where it serves a workspace. And those extra chairs? Just stack them alongside.

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A white MELLTORP table placed by a wall, a TERTIAL work lamp on it and stacked, light turquoise TEODORES chairs next to it.
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Open up for socializing

When this drop leaf table is folded out, it provides plenty of room for four people. A great extendable dining table idea for meals, board games or any other social activity that needs a table.

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A small, white dining table surrounded by four TERJE white and light-gray chairs. An IDANÄS cabinet stands by a nearby wall.
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A more considerate table

When space is at a premium, the last thing you need is a big piece of furniture taking up space, especially when they’re not being used. A drop leaf table like this only takes up the space you actually need. If it’s just you using it, fold it down. And when you have company, fold it out.

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A yoga mat and weights placed between a TERJE chair and a white drop-leaf table combo, and a white IDANÄS cabinet.
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Bring in the back up

When the dinner guest list is longer than usual, you’re going to need a bigger table. Include a drop leaf or gateleg table to your extendable dining table. It can add that extra elbow room when required and can be put somewhere else when it’s not.

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A festively set dinner area with a white NORDEN gateleg table, multicolor BERGMUND chairs, flowers and decorations.
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On the reserve bench, but always ready to take the field

A gateleg table like this can play two roles: folded against a wall – where it’s not just warming the bench, but doubling as a slim sideboard – or as a useful extension to your dining table.

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A hallway with a folded-down, white NORDEN gateleg table against a wall, and a LÄRBRO mirror a white NYMÅNE lamp above it.
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