How big Should my Dining Room Table be?

When furnishing a new home, one of the first pieces you will likely buy will be a dining table. Getting the style and size of your dining table just right is important. The following guide covers everything you should consider before making a dining table purchase, including seating, clearance, length, width, height, and shape.

Seating

The very first thing you should think about is how many seats you need. The seating needs of the dining room will be different for everyone. One good guide to follow is that your dining table should accommodate near the same number of people as your living room.

If there is space for 6 people to sit in the living room, then your dining table should seat 6 people. If your living space can comfortably seat 5, then consider having a minimum of 4 seats in your dining room. If there are only 2 seats in your living area, then you only need 2 seats in your dining area.

Also, there needs to be approximately 24 inches for each person at the table. These are not hard rules, but they are a useful place to start from.

Clearance

When it comes to dining table clearance, you need to have enough room to move through the space and for people to sit between the table and the wall. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 30 inches between the edge of the table and the wall or any other obstacle. 30 inches is the bare minimum, a few more inches would be ideal so things are not too tight.

If the table you are planning on buying will leave less than 30 inches on any side, consider a smaller table for the space.

Length

Length is arguably the most important dimension when looking at dining tables to purchase. The length of table you need will be determined by how long the room is, and by how many people you want to accommodate. Generally, a table that seats 4 will be around 48 inches, and a table that seats 6 will be around 78 inches.

Consider how many people you want to be able to seat, and how many inches they each need. Finally, measure the length of the dining room and see how much room you have.

Height

The average dining table is around 28-30 inches tall. This height is generally the best and the most comfortable height for most people. If you have a smaller space, a lower ceiling, this is the height you need.

Some people prefer the look of taller, counter-length dining sets. Counter-length tables and chairs can give a space a more casual look. If you have high ceilings, and if this style suits you, go for it.

Shape

Dining tables come in many shapes, and with many different styles of legs. The shape of a table is important to consider when it comes to the size of the table, as well. You may be able to fit a larger table in your space if it has a different shape, for instance.

Rectangle-shaped tables are the most common, and for good reason. Most dining rooms are rectangle shaped. For square dining rooms, think about getting a square or round table. Round tables can feel cozier.

Legs on a table can determine how many people you are able to eat, as well. A round table with a pedestal base can squeeze in the most seating if the need arises, for example. The shape of the dining table you choose will ultimately be up to you, your space, and your needs.

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