Upgrade Your Dining Table With These Popular Features

It's become all too common for people and families to ditch the dining room table in favour of eating off their laps, but a dining room table ensures a more sociable environment and maximum meal enjoyment. So wave goodbye to TV dinners and put available space to good use by finding the perfect dining table. Consider what you need from a dining table and try to find a compromise between style and function. Here's everything you'll need to know.

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Dining Table Shapes

Generally speaking, the most common dining table shapes are rectangle, round and square - but if you're stuck on which you prefer the most or which style will suit your home best, read up about each model below. Just remember to keep in mind your current interior style and how much space you have.

Rectangle

Perhaps the most popular of dining table styles, rectangle tables are great for seating more guests, especially if they have an extending section. If space isn't limited, rectangle tables make a great choice, thanks to their versatility and multiple purposes.

Square

Slightly more contemporary than the rectangle style, square tables are great if your space is limited (depending on the size of course) as it will leave you and your guests with more room to get in and out of the table. Generally, square tables tend to sit between four and twelve people.

Round

If you're partial to throwing regular dinner parties, round tables are ideal for promoting togetherness and easy conversations as each guest is sat within equal proximity to each other. If space is limited, consider an oval shape, which will prevent the room from looking overcrowded.

Tip: Why stop at updating just your dining table? These 5 steps towards a Scandi-style dining room are sure to take your dining space to a whole new interior level.

Base Types

When deciding on the right base type, there are many things to consider including size and the amount of leg room that you and your guests require. Generally, there are four base styles: four even legs, pedestal, double pedestal and trestle. Here's what you need to know about each:

Four-Legged

Four Even Legs Tables shouldn't wobble, so opting for a four-leg style isn't a great idea if your floors are uneven. However, they're a great option if you're only seating up to four as everyone will have enough legroom.

Pedestal

Pedestal styles consist of one single thick leg in the middle of the table top and often feature ornate details. Choosing this style is a great idea if you regularly have guests over as it provides more leg space.

Double Pedestal

Double-pedestal bases are usually seen on larger dining tables as they help to share the weight of the table top. Because of this, guests will still enjoy ample leg room.

Trestle

Trestle bases are formed of two sets of crossed or divergent legs, connected together with a beam. Often seen on traditional picnic tables, this style is perfect for channeling a country kitchen vibe. To enhance the look's authenticity, choose a table complete with two bench seats.

Extension Types

If space is an issue or you want the option of accommodating more people for dinner, you should choose a dining table with extensions. There are a number of different extension types and at least one will suit your personal needs:

Standard Extensions

A standard table extension involves slotting an insert into the middle or end of the table to increase its size. When considering this style, make sure that you've enough storage space to keep the addition when not in use.

Drop Leaf Extensions

For those short on space, a dining table with a drop leaf extension is probably the wise choice. Once the extended table has served its purpose, the sides can be folded down on either side until next required.

Butterfly Extensions

With a butterfly extension table, the two halves of the dining table pull apart and an additional piece folds out from the middle to create a larger table. This is great for those with limited storage as the insert is generally stored inside the table.

Now you've worked out your functional needs it's time to pick a style you love. Try deep, polished mahogany tables for a classy traditional look, or opt for a chunky wooden table for rustic appeal. For more information check out our Dining Chair Buying Guide. and our tips on How to Mix and Match Dining Chairs.