Elevate your dining experience with a new table
Your dining room table is the heart of the home. From family dinners and game nights to wine Wednesdays and book club meetings, it’s the source of countless memories. That’s why you’ll want to consider all the different types of tables before making your decision. Take a look at the dining room table options below to decide what will work best for your home and family.
Have a small family but love to entertain? Consider a dining room table with an extender. An extender, commonly referred to as a leaf, expands, adding length to a dining room table.
A leaf is an incredible bonus because it gives you the best of both worlds. You get a modestly sized table for every day, but also have the opportunity to expand it for large gatherings.
While you might not think that kitchen table height matters, it's a crucial feature to keep in mind when finding the perfect dining room table type for your needs.
Standard height: 28–30 inches from floor to table
Counter height: 34–36 inches from floor to table
Bar height: 40–42 inches from floor to table
While dining room tables come in many styles, farmhouse and traditional are two of the most common. Here’s a look at the differences between the two types.
Farmhouse-style dining tables take on a rustic look, and they’re often constructed from wood that appears weathered. It's also not uncommon to have a bench seat for a farmhouse dining table that feels down-to-earth, communal, and lived-in.
A traditional style dining table often has four legs that are either solid wood or ornately turned. They often come with an extendable leaf for formal gatherings. Traditional tables might remind you of dinner and your grandma’s, but with your personal design touch, you can make it your own.
If you’re a sucker for medium-shade woods, clean lines, and stilted tapered legs, then a mid-century modern table is for you. They’re often made from beachy woods like birch or white oak in a natural finish to give any room a relaxed vibe.
Another up-and-coming style for your dining table is the coastal style. Coastal style is bright, light, and airy. Coastal dining tables are made from light wood that looks almost white, and will evoke a beach getaway style in your home.
If you live in a smaller space or don’t have many people in your home, round tables are a perfect option. With an elegant look and a welcoming feel that easily facilitates conversation, a round table is a smart addition to any home.
Looking for a large table that will command center stage in your dining room? A rectangular table just might be for you. It will be the focal point of your dining room, so decorative accents, like a runner and modular chandelier, will work well.
This type of table is a versatile purchase that works for everyday meals and entertaining guests.
Want to ditch the idea of a proper dining room table? Consider affordable traditional kitchen table alternatives, like a breakfast nook area instead.
Another idea is to use your kitchen island as a table. Add a few bar- or counter-height stools to your current island to create a cozy area for meals and entertaining.
Wood is one of the most common dining room table materials. It’s classic, durable, and promotes a sense of formality.
There are plenty of different shades to choose from, including the following:
Light woods: birch, ash, and poplar
Medium woods: white oak, maple, and beech
Dark woods: mahogany, walnut, and cherry
A glass dining table won’t have an expandable option, but it may make your space look larger thanks to the way it reflects your home’s interior.
However, if you have kids, a glass table might not be a great choice in case of potential mishaps from rowdy playtime.
Still need help deciding what type of kitchen table is right for you? Talk to an interior designer in your area to fine-tune your style and vision.
