Hosting a dinner party goes far beyond a good meal, it’s about creating an unforgettable experience. And in every great dining room, the table is the star of the show. Whether it’s a cozy brunch, a formal dinner, or a lively game night, the right dining table can set the tone, create comfort, and bring people together. But with so many styles, sizes, and materials out there, how do you choose the perfect one for your space?

In this post, we’ll walk you through the most important considerations for finding a dining table that matches your style, fits your space, and stands up to your hosting dreams. 

Ready to elevate your dining room game? 

Let’s get started.

Amistad 72″ Dining Table

1. Consider the Space: Size and Shape Matter

• Measure First: Before falling in love with a table, measure your dining space. To keep things comfortable, make sure there’s at least 3 feet of clearance around the table for chairs and movement. This space allows guests to move freely without bumping into walls or furniture.
• Shape Decisions:
  • Rectangular Tables work well in narrow rooms and can usually seat more people—ideal for large gatherings.
  • Round Tables encourage conversation by allowing everyone to face each other, making them perfect for smaller spaces or intimate settings.
  • Square Tables are great for square rooms, creating a balanced look while offering a more modern aesthetic.
• Pro Tip: If you have a multi-functional space, consider an extendable table. These give you the flexibility to expand or shrink the table based on your needs.

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Gratify 60″ Round Dining Table

2. Material Matters: Choosing the Right Table for Your Lifestyle

• Wood Tables: Solid wood tables are classic, durable, and bring warmth to a room. If you love a rustic or traditional look, a wood table might be your best choice.
• Glass Tables: For a sleek, modern vibe, go for glass. Glass reflects light, which makes a room feel larger—a great pick for smaller or darker dining spaces. Glass tables are easy to clean, but they show fingerprints easily.
• Metal and Stone: Metal tables or those with stone tops offer a bold, industrial look and work well in modern spaces. They’re extremely durable but can feel cooler, so consider adding a warm rug underneath to balance the look.
• Composite or Laminate: If you’re looking for something budget-friendly, composite or laminate tables are durable, come in various styles, and are easy to clean. They might lack the durability of solid wood or stone but can still look fabulous in the right setting.

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3. Style and Aesthetics: Making a Statement

• Match Your Home’s Personality: Think about the overall aesthetic of your home. Is it farmhouse-chic, modern minimalist, or mid-century inspired? Your table should reflect and enhance this style.
• Contrasting Styles: Don’t be afraid to mix things up. A sleek, modern dining table can bring a cool contrast to a traditional room, creating a balanced, designer-inspired look.
• Leg Styles: The base or legs of a table influence both style and function. Pedestal tables give more legroom, making them ideal for smaller dining rooms, while trestle bases offer a sturdy, rustic look.

Caspian 72″ Oval Concrete Dining Table

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4. Seating Capacity: How Many Guests Can You Comfortably Host?

• The table’s shape directly impacts how many people you can seat comfortably. Here’s a quick guide:
  • Round Tables: A 48-inch round table comfortably seats 4-5 guests, while a 60-inch round table can seat up to 8.
  • Rectangular Tables: For every additional foot in length, add 1-2 extra seats. Typically, a 72-inch table seats 6, and an 84-inch table seats 8.
  • Extendable Tables: These are perfect if you occasionally host larger groups. Keep your table compact daily, then expand when it’s time to entertain.

Juxtapose 63” Rectangle Dining Table

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5. Color and Finish: Setting the Tone

• Dark Finishes: Darker woods and finishes add a formal, traditional feel, making them great for classic interiors. Just be mindful of maintenance, as darker tables show dust and fingerprints more easily.
• Light Finishes: Light-colored woods or white finishes can brighten up a room and make it feel larger, adding a casual, relaxed vibe.
• Customizable Elements: Look for tables with mixed materials or finishes, such as a wood base with a marble top. These bring a unique, customized feel to your dining room, creating visual interest and a sense of sophistication.

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6. Durability and Maintenance: Choosing a Table That Lasts

• Daily Use Considerations: If you have a bustling household or kids, you’ll want a sturdy, low-maintenance table that can handle spills and scratches. Go for materials like high-quality wood, laminate, or composite.
• Seasonal Entertaining: If you host frequently, consider investing in a table with a protective finish or one that’s easy to clean, like glass or metal.
• Long-Term Care: Remember, your table is an investment. Wooden tables benefit from regular polishing, while glass tables may need frequent cleaning to stay smudge-free.

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7. Final Touch: Pairing with the Right Chairs

• Your table might be the focal point, but chairs complete the picture. Consider these tips:
  • Mix and Match: Combining different chair styles (e.g., upholstered chairs at the ends, wooden ones along the sides) adds personality.
  • Comfort Over Style: Always prioritize comfort, especially if you entertain often. High-backed or cushioned chairs make for a more enjoyable experience.
  • Consider Armrests: If your table is narrow, choose armless chairs to save space, or select chairs with armrests only for the table ends.

Imogen Woven Heathered Fabric Upholstered Barrel Dining Chairs – Set of 2

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Make Your Dining Room the Heart of Your Home

Choosing the perfect dining table means choosing the memories you’ll make around it. So, whether it’s a bold centerpiece for grand occasions or a cozy spot for weeknight dinners, find the table that feels like home. 

Explore our collection at Furniture & Then Some and start building the dining room where every meal feels memorable.

With the right choice, your dining room will be a place of comfort, elegance, and unforgettable experiences.