Popular Dining Room Tables

The Table Game

The right dining room table is one that can seat the right amount of people without crowding a room and blends with an existing decor while focusing the room. This is obviously a different table for everyone, but the rules are the same.

All Sizes and Shapes

Before buying any table, measure the space it is for. You will want to account for at least three feet on either side of the dining room table for chair and walking space.

Now that the space is measured, the table can be considered. Here is a list of the most popular dining room table shapes and their sizes with seating capacity:

Round (sizes denote surface diameter) – 36 inches: seats 2
40 inches: seats 4
56 inches: seats 8

Square – 38 inches: seats 4
60 inches: seats 8

Rectangular or Oblong – 36 x 60 inches: seats 6
36 x 72: seats 8
36 x 84: seats 8
48 x 96: seats 8-10
48 x 132: seats 12

Take note that smaller dining room tables may come with insert leafs, which can greatly extend the size, as well as the functional economy of the table. The biggest thing insert and drop leafs provide is more seating space for special occasions or just to allow the table to fit a smaller space for day to day living.

Classic stylings

As far as style is concerned, there are many popular dining room tables available. Wood table tops are most common and most popular.

Popular woods types and wood finishes include:

Oak: This hearty wood is a country favorite, easy to finish and very rugged.

Maple: A hard wood that is found in light and dark finishes with fantastic grain patterns.

Mahogony: The Cadillac of building material, this dark wood is exceptionally sturdy and durable.

Ash: Known for its distinct grain and bleached color.

New Lines

More contemporary construction is catching on for dining room tables. Contemporary dining tables can add a sense of class that the classic wood top just can't.

Glass dining room tables are great for minimalist decors and fit right into rooms that see a lot of sunlight. Similarly, marble or quartz tops ooze individuality and can become the centerpiece of any home with the right arrangement.

If you really want to make your dining room table stand out, take a look at counter-height dining tables. Like their smaller pub table cousins, these tables sit higher than usual so be sure to choose seats that are the right height.

There are quite a few popular dining room table styles but the most important feature they share is the ability to become a part of your own decor. Whether you are looking to add to your established style or are ready to transform your dining room, you're sure to find exactly what you're looking for.

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