nation-wide 5-star service

Buyer’s Guide to Dining Tables

Dining table guide in a modern kitchen.

A dining table serves as a central hub where families and friends gather, as well as an essential centerpiece in your home. If you're in the market to choose a dining table that will stand the test of time, it’s crucial to make a wise, one-time purchase. What are the critical factors to consider? A dining table should be well-built, accommodate numerous guests, and fit well within most spaces in terms of size and shape. Since a dining table can be a hefty investment, take ample time to cover all essential criteria to ensure the table meets your home’s needs. Also, we have a buyer's guide for sofas if you are interested, ensuring you create a harmonious and comfortable living space that complements your new dining table.

Modern dining table.
Photo by Architonic

Click here for your dining table assembly BOOK NOW!

Selecting a Robust Dining Table

The cornerstone of any dining room is undeniably the dining table. It’s a piece of furniture that should not only complement the aesthetic of your space but also stand the test of time through countless dinner parties, family gatherings, and everyday use. To this end, prioritizing durability and strength in your selection is crucial. Opting for hardwood varieties such as mahogany, walnut, maple, oak, and teak is a wise decision, as these materials are renowned for their longevity and robustness. These types of wood boast a dense grain and inherent strength that makes them resistant to damage and wear, ensuring that your dining table remains a centerpiece in your home for years to come. On the other hand, while engineered or composite woods like plywood and MDF are budget-friendly options that offer a degree of durability, they simply can’t match the resilience and lasting power of hardwood. Investing in a solid wood table may come with a higher upfront cost, but the payoff in durability and aesthetic appeal is well worth it.

Wood dining table.
Photo by Kathy Kuo Home

Exploring the Radiance of Glass

When considering materials for your dining table, glass is an option that shouldn’t be overlooked. Glass-top dining tables have a unique ability to blend seamlessly with a multitude of decor styles, from the contemporary to the classic. Their reflective nature adds a level of brightness and lightness to spaces, which can be particularly beneficial in rooms that require a bit more illumination. Modern advancements in glass production have resulted in tables that are scratch-resistant, can endure high temperatures, and are designed to be less likely to shatter upon impact, ensuring both the safety and longevity of the piece. Moreover, glass tables come in a wide spectrum of tints and designs, providing versatility in terms of aesthetic appeal and seating arrangements. Whether you’re looking to create a sleek, modern look or a more classic, timeless setting, a glass dining table offers a wealth of possibilities.

Glass dining table.
Photo by Amazon

Embracing the Allure of Weathered Wood

For those who appreciate a sense of history and character in their furniture, tables with a rustic or industrial past are a compelling choice. These pieces have already stood the test of time, demonstrating their durability and resilience. Over the years, the imperfections and wear on the surface of these tables transform into charming design elements, adding a unique character and story to the piece. This makes them particularly well-suited to families with children, as any additional marks or scratches only contribute to the table’s rich history and personality. However, it’s important to protect your investment and maintain the beauty of the wood with regular applications of hard wax polish, ensuring that your weathered wood table continues to be a stunning focal point in your dining room for years to come.

Weathered wood dining table
Photo by Arrow Furniture

Indulging in the Opulence of Marble

Marble dining tables are synonymous with luxury and opulence, instantly drawing the eye and making a bold statement in any dining room. Though a marble table is undoubtedly a significant investment, its timeless beauty ensures that it never goes out of style, providing a stunning centerpiece for your space for decades. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of the particular care and considerations that come with owning a marble table. Marble is a heavy material, which can pose challenges in terms of transportation and placement. It’s also susceptible to cracks and stains if not properly cared for. To mitigate these issues, consider opting for a smaller, round table, which will be easier to manage while still providing the luxurious aesthetic you desire. Additionally, maintaining a strict cleaning and care regimen will help protect your marble table from potential damage, ensuring that it remains a beautiful and luxurious part of your dining room.

Marble dining table
Photo by King Living

Opting for Portability and Flexibility

For individuals who find themselves frequently moving or who simply prefer a more flexible living arrangement, selecting a dining table that is both light and portable is a practical choice. If you find yourself drawn to the aesthetic of metal or marble tables, it’s important to weigh these preferences against the need for portability. Small, round marble tables can provide the luxurious look you desire while still being manageable to move. Similarly, wooden tables with removable legs offer a practical and attractive solution, combining ease of transportation with aesthetic appeal. For those looking to achieve an urban-industrial look, a lighter wood table accented with metal features might be the perfect fit, providing a stylish yet portable option for your dining space.

Small round dining table
Photo by West Elm

Selecting a Designer Pack-and-Go Table

In the realm of lightweight, durable, and portable dining tables, plywood emerges as a standout material. Plywood tables are designed to be easily assembled or disassembled as needed, making them an excellent choice for individuals with dynamic lifestyles or smaller living spaces. This material aligns well with a range of aesthetic preferences, from modern Nordic to contemporary Asian, providing a stylish and practical solution for your dining needs.

Plywood dining table
Photo by Gus Modern

Choosing a Shape that Suits Your Space

The shape of your dining table plays a crucial role in both the functionality and aesthetic of your dining room. Round tables are an excellent option for smaller spaces, creating a cozy and intimate dining experience. Their lack of corners makes them ideal for fitting into tight spaces, and they have the added benefit of being able to accommodate extra guests when necessary. On the other hand, rectangular tables offer a more traditional dining experience. While they may provide limited seating due to leg placement and table ends, they can be extended with leaves to accommodate larger gatherings when needed.

Unique shape dining table
Photo by D’Cruz Design Group

Opting for the Elegance of an Oval Table

Oval dining tables offer a unique blend of the benefits provided by both round and rectangular tables. They create a cozy and intimate dining experience while also being able to accommodate more guests. The rounded corners of an oval table give the illusion of taking up less space, making them a great option for smaller dining rooms. Their elongated shape also allows for more comfortable seating, as guests aren’t limited by the constraints of table corners.

Oval dining table
Photo by Loewen Design Studios

Navigating Color Trends with Caution

When it comes to choosing a color for your dining table, it’s important to tread carefully. While trendy colors can add a contemporary feel to your space, they may not stand the test of time in terms of style longevity. To ensure that your table remains a stylish part of your dining room for years to come, opt for classic shades that have proven their long-term appeal. Reds, yellows, and blues are safe and timeless choices, particularly for homes that incorporate subtle Asian influences in their decor.

Red dining table
Photo by Furnishing CN

Embracing the Sophistication of Black

A black dining table is a statement piece, exuding sophistication and elegance. When kept in pristine condition, it can serve as a stunning focal point in your dining room. However, it’s important to be mindful of the potential for scratches, especially with veneered surfaces. Regular maintenance and careful use will help preserve the pristine condition of your black table, ensuring that it remains a sophisticated and elegant part of your dining space.

Black dining table
Photo by Furniture 123

Celebrating the Timeless Appeal of Country Tables

For those who prefer a more traditional aesthetic, large, robust country-style tables are an ideal option. These tables are perfect for families and frequent entertainers, providing ample space and a welcoming vibe. Available in a variety of timbers, from oak to pine, country tables offer a timeless design that can be tailored to suit your individual taste and decor style. Whether you prefer an upscale, polished look or a more rustic, homey feel, there is a country table to fit your needs.

Country dining table
Photo by Country Living

Investing in the Charm of Retro

Retro dining tables offer a unique blend of nostalgia and style, capturing the essence of bygone eras. These tables are treasures with the potential to increase in value over time, making them a worthwhile investment. Even if a particular retro table doesn’t immediately fit into your existing decor, its quality craftsmanship and timeless design make it a valuable addition to your home.

Retro dining table
Photo by Home Depot

In summary, when selecting a dining table for your home, it’s crucial to consider not just the immediate aesthetic appeal but also the long-term durability, versatility, and practicality of the piece. By taking into account factors such as material, size, shape, color, and style, you can ensure that your dining table serves as a beautiful and functional centerpiece in your home for many years to come.

Click here for your dining table assembly BOOK NOW!

Final Thoughts on Selecting Your Perfect Dining Table

In conclusion, choosing the right dining table requires a thoughtful consideration of various factors, including material, size, shape, and style. Whether you are drawn to the timeless elegance of hardwood, the sleek sophistication of glass, or the unique charm of weathered wood or marble, ensuring the longevity and durability of your piece should be a top priority. Consider the practical aspects of maintenance and care, as well as the versatility and adaptability of the table to different social settings and spaces.

Furthermore, for those who may need assistance in assembling their chosen dining table, services like National Assemblers provide a convenient solution. With a team of skilled professionals, National Assemblers ensures that your dining table is assembled quickly, correctly, and securely, allowing you to enjoy your new piece with peace of mind. And not to mention, we are also here to assist you with your furniture assembly to your BBQ grill assembly if you require. Contact us today and let us help you with your installation!

Article cover photo: West Elm
Book Home assembly
Inquire For Business