Wishes and options when choosing the right dining table
The first step in the search for a dining table is to see how much space you have for the dining table. The shape of the dining room is a good and important tool. Do you have a long, narrow dining room? Then an oval dining table is a good option. Do you have a very large dining room? Then it is better not to choose a round table, as it will disappear a bit in the room. Also consider how many seats you need. Do you live as a couple? Then a dining table for six people may be a bit large, unless you regularly have guests. In short: the ideal dining table depends on the space, your personal preferences and wishes.
Which shape suits your dining room?
Dining tables come in many shapes, sizes and variants. The shape of the table influences the dynamics of the dining room. Round tables encourage conversations, while rectangular tables often have a more formal look. A square table can work well in smaller spaces.
Below you can read the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of tables.
Round dining table
The round table is ideal for a small dining area, but also to break up the straight lines in a square room. The shape softens the room and immediately creates atmosphere. Choose the diameter that suits your dining area. Want an extra chair? No problem.
Advantages of round table
- Compact and therefore ideal for small spaces
- Softens an angular space
- Easily add extra chairs
- You have eye contact with everyone at the table
Disadvantages of round table
- Can only be placed in the middle of the room
- The number of seats depends on the chassis. With four legs it is more difficult to seat more people at the table
- Cannot be extended (by adding another table)
- Less space on the table
Oval dining table
An oval dining table brings softness to the room, just like a round table. If you have an industrial or modern interior with clean lines, an oval table can provide more balance. Because there are no corners at the table, it is easy to create an extra seat.
Advantages of an oval dining table
- More space to sit
- Looks more compact because there are no corners
- Softens an angular space
- Suitable for a narrow dining area
- Children cannot hurt themselves on the points of the table
Disadvantages of oval dining table
- Fewer choices
- Cannot be extended (by adding another table)
- Cannot be pushed against a wall
Square dining table
Just like a round table, a square table is also suitable for a small dining area. Because you can easily place the table against the wall, the dining area remains visually spacious. On the other hand, with a square dining table it is more difficult to add extra chairs.
Advantages of a square dining table
- Ideal for small(er) spaces because you can place the table against the wall
- Need more seats? Slide a table against it
Disadvantages of square dining table
- Seating space is often limited to four chairs
- Less suitable for narrow dining areas
Rectangular dining table
Perhaps the most popular and chosen shape when it comes to dining tables, the rectangular one. Very practical, because you can place this table both in the room and against the wall. That provides opportunities for variation. You can also create extra seats on the end(s).
Advantages of a rectangular dining table
- Popular, so many choices
- Suitable for almost any type of dining room: from narrow and elongated to square
- Practical and can be placed in different ways: against the wall or in the room
- Plenty of space on the table
Disadvantages of rectangular dining table
- Less suitable for small dining areas
- Takes up a relatively large amount of space
Materials
Once you have discovered which shape of dining table best suits your interior, you can think about the base. Do you prefer steel? Or do you prefer wood? Nowadays there are more and more options to put together your ideal table yourself. This way you can tailor this piece of furniture exactly to your wishes.
Table tops are available in different materials, such as wood, glass, metal, marble and plastic. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on aspects such as durability, maintenance and aesthetics. For example, wood is warm and versatile, while glass has a modern look but is more susceptible to scratches. A marble table top is more vulnerable than a metal table. And a wooden table top requires more maintenance than one made of plastic.
Dining table size with number of chairs
How large your dining room table should be depends mainly on your home situation. Do you often eat alone or as a couple? Four or even six? Do you often host dinners for family and friends or is the dining table also your home workplace? The answer to these questions determines how many chairs should be around the table and how large the table should ultimately be.
Below you can see how many chairs fit at a table, based on the length of the table. This takes into account the average width of a chair of 60-70 cm.
Rectangular tables:
- 120 cm: 4 chairs
- 140 cm: 4-6 seats
- 160 cm: 4-6 seats
- 180 cm: 4-6 seats
- 200 cm: 6-8 seats
- 220 cm: 6-8 seats
- 240 cm: 6-8 seats
- 260 cm: 8-10 seats
- 280 cm: 8-10 seats
- 300 cm: 10-12 chairs
Round tables:
- 100cm: 2-3 chairs
- 120cm: 4-5 chairs
- 140cm: 6 chairs
- 160cm: 8 chairs
- 180 cm: 9 chairs
