Learn everything you need to know about choosing the right dining table shape, material, and style for your home.
At first glance, the dining table can appear like a frills-free and simple piece of furniture. The main requirement for a table is choosing one that can accomodate everyone who will be eating in your home. Second, you of course want to select one that appeals to your style sensibilities. There are other practical and aesthetic variables to consider when deciding which dining table is the right one for your home.
Modern Dining Table Materials
Dining tables, similarly to occasional tables and case goods, are constructed from durable, solid materials that will not only accommodate a four-course meal but your entire guest list with ease. Since you will be serving and sharing food on this surface on a daily basis, durability is a supreme consideration when selecting the right dining table for your family. These tables can be crafted from hardwoods, like oak, mahogany, elm or other materials and these woods are usually treated with a durable polish that will give the table a sophisticated sheen and help prevent glass rim stains and other spills from leaving a mark. You can choose wood that is stained and polished or raw for a more rough-hewn, organic aesthetic. Most dining table woods are selected for their durability, so choosing the one for you is mostly down to your own visual preferences. DIning tables that look right at home in the modern home can also be crafted from stone like concrete or marble. These tables feature stunning natural variations and are prized pieces that you’ll see in architectural magazines and interior design publications. You should be wary when choosing your stone table. Many are susceptible to staining and damage or even chipping if not properly cared for. If you select a stone table, take extra care to follow any specific care instructions and clean up spills as soon as they happen. Metal is also a popular dining table material, and it’s not uncommon to see tables with a metal base and top that is constructed from either glass or wood. These mixed material tables instantly infuse any room with an industrial edge that is ultra sophisticated and completely of the moment. Metal tables can be stained evenly or feature distress detailing that furthers the industrial warehouse look.
Choosing the Right Dining Table Shape and Size
If you have a large dining room, let your personal preferences guide you towards the dining table shape and size for you. A good rule of thumb is that your table should allow each guest 24” of space to gather and feast comfortably. If you want to ensure your table coordinates expertly with your dining room or eat-in kitchen, allow the dimensions and shape of the room that the table will occupy to guide your decisions. In small, eat-in kitchens a round dining table can be a great option that plays up the visual interest and dimensions of the space without taking up too much real estate. Round tables usually feature pedestal bases, which free up even more space in the way of legroom for diners. A round table that measures 40” in diameter will easily accommodate between four and six people. For larger groups, with guest lists closer to a dozen people, a table measuring 80” in diameter will be more appropriate. In a large, rectangular dining room, a similarly proportioned rectangular or oval table will rise to the occasion of filling the space. A common rectangular dining table size for smaller groups measures 36”x48”. Tables in this size range will accommodate between four and six people. For those larger gatherings, you’ll want to find a dining table that measures closer to 96”x44” or larger.
Modern Dining Table Features
Some dining tables are straightforward and fuss-free designs. These tables don’t bring any added features, but they do bring a sleek and modern edge to any space, and are a great option for any family who doesn’t entertain or have guests over for dinner parties often. Other tables have additional features that bring added functionality to your home. Removable leaves are sections of the table that can seamlessly be added or removed so you can expand your guest list in a snap. Leaves typically include a natural finish that matches the table top and dowels that keep it in place when it is in use. The two halves of the table will glide open on a track system so you can insert or remove the leaf with ease. Drop leaves are a specific variety of leaf that are permanently attached to the table but fold up or down to accommodate your changing needs. These are perfect in a home with limited storage space, because you never have to worry about losing your leaf or deciding where to stow it. A popular feature on large round tables is a lazy susan. These features include a small circle surface that is on a platform and can spin fully around. Passing food can be difficult around large round tables, and a lazy susan makes it simple to load up items and spin them around so everyone around the table can reach.
Caring for Your Modern Dining Table
If you choose a wooden dining table, you will need to use coasters and placemats to prevent the wood from staining. This is especially true with glasses, which can leave rim stains that permanently discolor the wood. If spills do occur, be sure to wipe them away immediately and avoid exposing your table to excessive humidity which can cause warping and expanding over time. Glass tables are ideal for families and anyone who prefers a low maintenance piece of furniture. These tables clean easily with an all-purpose cleaner and cloth. You can use coasters to avoid leaving water rings, and avoid scratching your table with any sharp objects that might leave marks in the glass. Marble and stone are some of the most high maintenance modern dining table materials because they are extremely porous and can absorb spills quickly. You will want to closely study and follow any specific cleaning instructions specific to your table. As a general rule of thumb, you should avoid using abrasive and harsh household cleaners on marble and stone dining tables.
