on April 08, 2025
Are you looking for a new dining table and want to know which steps to take to buy one that fits your interior perfectly? Then read on for some detailed tips.
Step-by-step plan for buying the right dining table
Are you ready for a new dining table but don't know which size will fit your space best? Are you unsure between an oval, square or round table? No worries, with the following three steps you are guaranteed to find the perfect table to match your space and other furniture:
- Choose the right size for your table
- Determine the right shape
- Consider the number of chairs
Step 1: What is the right size for your dining table?
When choosing a new table, it is important to consider the size of your dining area and the number of dining chairs you want around the table. Let's start with the size of the room. Whether you have a separate dining room or your dining area is in the kitchen or living room, these tips will help you make the best use of the space available.
Measure the space to determine what dimensions the table can have, and consider on which sides of the table you will or will not need walking space:
- Do you want to be able to easily walk past the table? Then be sure to allow about 120 cm between the wall and the table.
- Don't need any walking space? Then for dining chairs without armrests, count on at least 60 centimetres between the table and the wall. For a dining chair with armrests, this is about 75 centimetres. You need this space to slide your chair back and take your seat.
The space left is the maximum size of table you can fit in the room. But that doesn't mean you have to use all this space. Just be careful not to choose a table that is too small, to keep the right balance in the room. A table that is too small can look a bit ‘pathetic’ and disappear into the space.
Step 2: Determine the right shape
Tables come in all kinds of models. The most common model is the rectangular dining table. A square table comes into its own when the space lends itself to it, and in recent years round dining tables have become very popular. The trend in contemporary interiors is organic shapes, which oval dining tables fit perfectly with.
Now that you have measured the dimensions, you can look at the shape of the space in your home:
Do you have a rectangular space? Then a rectangular or oval table is best to emphasise the length of the room. Advantages of these models are:
- At a rectangular table, you have plenty of space for things (useful if you also work at the table, for example).
- An oval table is ideal for a narrower space. You can easily walk around it, and it is easier to slide in some extra chairs
Do you have a square space? Even if it deviates slightly, a square or round table is often perfect. Advantages of these models are:
- A square table you can slide against the wall, ideal for smaller spaces
- With a round table, you can easily slide in extra chairs. Handy if you often have extra guests for dinner or drinks!
Dining tables with corners (rectangular or square) are generally seen as a bit more ‘formal’. In addition, you should be careful with small children, who might bump into the corners of the table.
A round or oval dining table looks slightly more accessible and is perceived as cosier, as you can easily slide in an extra chair!
Tip: avoid putting a rectangular table in a square room and vice versa. The balance is often a bit off then.
Step 3: How many chairs will you put at the table?
Length of the table: You can determine the length of the table after measuring the available space. The length determines how many people can sit around the table. For a rectangular table, the most ideal size for six people starts at a length of 180 cm to 2 metres. On average, a dining chair needs 60 centimetres of space in width.
Does the table have legs at the corners? Then you need some extra space. For six people, then preferably choose a table of 200 cm or longer.
Width of the table: The width of the table is also important. A table 90 cm wide is ideal for two people facing each other. Do you also want someone to sit at the end? Then choose a table at least 100 cm wide.
For a round or square table:
- 90-100 cm diameter: suitable for 2-4 people
- 120 cm diameter: suitable for 4-6 people
- 150 cm diameter: suitable for 6-8 people
Material and style
Besides shape and size, the material of your dining table is an important choice. Wood adds warmth and character, while glass can make a room appear optically larger. Also consider the style of your interior - an industrial table with metal legs fits perfectly in a tough interior, while a table with organic shapes fits well with a natural living style.
In conclusion
A dining table is often the heart of your home, where you not only eat but also work, craft and spend cosy evenings with friends and family. Therefore, take your time to make the right choice. Measure your space well, think about the shape that best suits your interior and decide how many seats you need.
With these tips, you are guaranteed to find a dining table that fits your home perfectly and that you will enjoy for years to come!
