While the kitchen may be the heart of the home, your dining table is a place of gathering. The dining table offers a special place for family and friends to break bread, converse, and create memories. Finding the right dining table for your home is a significant purchase as it needs to work with the space, style, and functionality of your home. And when memorable moments are being made around this gathering spot with friends and families it’s no wonder why choosing just the right one can be a daunting decision. There are many variables to consider when purchasing the perfect dining table for your home. Read on to learn how to choose the right dining table for your home.
Space
How to choose the right dining table for your home starts with working with what you have. Unless you are planning to move walls to create the perfect space for your dining table, most of us need to use what our homes already provide. Work within your limits and the four walls within your dining space. Know the dimensions of the space your dining table will go. Really know it- measure it out, write it down, and even take pictures. From here you can also gain valuable inspiration from cruising the internet and searching for images that move you, speak to you and ultimately hone in the table you can envision in your space. Having this information will make the purchase process smoother. There’s nothing worse than finding the perfect table- or so you think– only for it to not work. It’s important to buy practically, before purchasing emotionally.
Small Spaces
Being slim on space doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice having the perfect dining table. Small spaces promote an intimate and cozy vibe among family and friends. Think cocktail parties, family dinners, and intimate conversations. The round nature of the table also makes the flow around the space easy to maneuver. When not hosting, consider tables that offer leaves or extensions that collapse- this way you can save on space when not entertaining. And when you need them- they’re perfect for accommodating friends and family- offering more seats at the table and more surface area for all those tasty treats.
Style
Finding the right style dining table may be as easy as looking around your current home. What style is your home? What speaks to you? If your design aesthetic is traditional, going with a mid-century modern table may be uncharacteristic of the space, and awkward. Know what your style is and run with it. Staying within your interior design lane will keep the style of your home flowing, comfortable, and practical. Like a good pair of jeans, the right table will fit within the space it’s intended for.
Shape
The shape of the table you choose tends to be a personal choice. While the design aesthetic is an important factor, being emotionally invested in your table makes gathering around it that much more special. While the shape can lend itself to driving home a certain design style, choosing the right shape of your dining table speaks more to the feel and functionality of the space. Being small on space, round dining tables tend to maximize seating, while promoting an intimate gathering experience. Rectangular and square tables are best for larger-sized dining spaces, creating a harmonious balance between your table and the size of your space.
Bench
Want sitting flexibility? Consider ditching the chairs- well not all of them, but at least a few. Benches are great for square and rectangular tables as they optimize seating space and lend a nice juxtaposition to the everyday chair. There is also an intimate element accompanied by a bench, which can offer a rustic and cozy flair for your gathering experience. And when not needed for dining, the bench can serve a new purpose in another space. Practicality and functionality- the best of both worlds.
Textile
While wood is always a popular choice for a dining table- given its warmth, sustainability, and strength- there are other options. Consider metal, plastic, or a combination of metal and wood. The options are endless, and they speak specifically to your design aesthetic. When going for a traditional look and feel, wood is your best choice. A mid-century modern vibe can carry metal or plastic tables effortlessly. Hone in on what your style is, what speaks to you, and ultimately what you love for your perfect dining table.
Accessories
So you have the perfect table- you’re not quite done yet. Make it inviting! Have a daily centerpiece on the table– arrange various fruits, a bowl of lemons, or even a vase with seasonal flowers. Decorating your table makes the space inviting, offers interest, and completes the look. Have a set of dishes you love? Use them! You don’t have to wait for guests to use the items you love. Decorate your table with your favorite placemats and plates. Consider also decorating for each season, or holiday- adding flair, fun, and festivity to your dining room. Another way to make your dining room inviting and cozy, and oh so design-worthy.
The Bottom Line
How to choose the right dining table for your home is a personal and special choice. Consider what is important to you and your family, your lifestyle, and how you intend to use the space– and your table. A few thoughts to keep in mind when choosing your perfect dining table: Measure- twice! Know the dimensions of your space to ensure your table strikes a balance between size and design.
-Go with the flow- choose the right shape for your space and gather experience
-Keep it decorated- entice visual interest with a decorated table
-Offer flexible seating- who said you must stick with chairs? Mix it up with a bench to maximize seating and offer visual interest
You’ve taken notes, you’ve measured and you’re ready. While the kitchen is the heart of the home, the perfect dining table is the soul. It’s all about finding the right table that you will live with for years, creating lasting memories around, and sharing laughs among family and friends– while doing so in style.
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