Dining tables

Dining tables for every meal

Long and cozy breakfasts with freshly baked bread after a late sleep in. Hearty Sunday roasts with friends and family. Yummy weekend brunches with scrambled eggs, bacon and scones. Dining room tables are at the heart of it all. So, you’ll want to choose one that can handle the pressure. 

That’s why we have a wide variety of designs for you. From drop-leaf tables to extendable ones, wall mounted to gateleg, to everything you need to fit both guests and gourmet dishes.

What to think about when getting a dining room table

You might be tempted to just pick up a table that looks nice. But it’s not quite that easy! You want your table to match well with the dinnerware and glassware you use every day. You want to be able to use it for many years, and to the fullest. Having a festive dinner, and then chatting around the dining table all the way into the late hours should be a delight, not a displeasure. Therefore, there are some things to keep in mind so that you are guaranteed to sit comfortably through and through.

The height of your kitchen table matters

Make sure to consider the height between the table and chairs. If you sit too high, your thighs might hit the underside of the tabletop, which can turn long dinners into a torment. If you sit too low, it becomes uncomfortable to lean your arms against the table, since your shoulders end up in an unnaturally high position. 

A good rule of thumb is that the distance between the seat and the kitchen tabletop should be a maximum of 1 foot. Keep in mind that you need to measure from the actual seat so be extra careful if you have chairs with cushions or built-in padding. These will sink down when you sit on them, and it is from that seating position that you should measure. Otherwise, a few inches in height will disappear when you sit down, and then suddenly: the table is too high.

If you’re not in the mood to mix and match kitchen tables and kitchen chairs, why not choose one of our dining room sets? They’re made to go together, so you know they’re a good fit.

How to make sure everyone can fit around your kitchen table

You also need to consider how many people you want to fit around the table. You’ll want all diners to be able to sit comfortably without bumping into each other when eating.

For that, it is estimated that each seat needs 2 feet in width. So, if you want a dining table for four, with two people on each side, you need one that is at least 4 feet long. For six people with three people on each side, at least 6 feet applies, and so on. 

If you’re not sure whether you need seating for four, six or more, get yourself an extendable table. Space-saving when it's just a few folks, and easily extended when it’s time for a bigger party.

Consider the position of the dining table legs

Make sure to consider the placement of the table legs. If they are on the very edge, you and your guests can sit next to each other without problem. If, on the other hand, the legs are placed more toward the center, you may need to think extra carefully about size and legroom.

If you try to squeeze too many people around the dining table, there’s a risk that some may sit with a cold table leg between their own two human legs. Or it becomes a constant irritation when you hit your knee every time you get up or sit down. So make sure to consider each aspect of your new table for years of enjoyment.

How to choose between oval, rectangular, square or round dining tables?

Consider the advantages each dining room table shape offers and decide which are most important for you and your family. Some to consider include:

• The soft curves of a round or oval dining table make them a popular choice for parents of young children who want to minimize sharp corners in the home.  
• Because it doesn’t have defined corners it can be easier to squeeze in a few extra seats at an oval dining table than a rectangular dining table.
• Rectangular dining tables are a timeless choice that offer plenty of space for serveware, plates and glassware.  
• If you want the flexibility of being able to tuck your table into a corner, consider a rectangular or square dining table.