Tables

Whether eating with your family or at an intimate dinner for two, you need a dining table that supports every occasion from breakfast to dessert! Before you get the dinner conversation started with a dining or pub table, make sure to measure your space multiple times and take stock of your floor plan.

What tabletop shape do I need?

Your ideal tabletop shape is determined by the size and layout of your designated eating space and how many people you need to seat.

Square dining tables allow for intimate conversation between two to four diners and enough room to move around the table. Round dining tables help maximize even more seating space (up to six diners). Remember that square and round tables are better suited to square rooms.

For formal dining spaces, check out rectangular dining tables. Depending on the size and number of leaves, you can comfortably seat four to 10 (or even 12) people and let the feast begin. Or mix things up with an oval dining table for the same benefits but a different look.

And if you want a unique look, consider novelty or octagonal dining tables.

What table base should I look for?

Pedestal bases maximize seating for compact dining spaces and prevent people’s knees from bumping into each other. Single pedestal bases are great for more intimate dining (two to four people), whereas double pedestal is ideal for formal dining spaces.

Trestle-base tables are also an ideal match for formal dining with various stretcher sizes and trestle styles. They are also very durable, which is perfect for children.

Leg-base tables are a fun fit for family dining with plenty of room to tuck chairs in and out of the way.

Metal base tables change up the design of your space while adding increased durability and leg room.

Which table height is which?

Tables come in three different height types: standard, counter, and bar.

Standard-height dining room tables are between 28 and 30 inches, with seating heights between 18 and 23 inches. Standard tables are the most inclusive for children and people with disabilities. The most comfortable height for you should be a table that leaves enough room above the knee and is at the same level as your elbows when sitting down.

Counter height tables are 36 inches high, with correlating seating height between 24 and 26 inches. Counter-height is ideal for compact dining spaces, allows for easy food prep, creates a good flow for entertaining, and provides a unique look.

Bar height is between 40 and 42 inches high with seating height between 28 and 30 inches. These tables can also go by pub or gathering-height tables. Gathering tables also make great dining tables and are optimal for entertaining with large parties that are up and moving about.

Still have more questions? See where you should splurge or save, consult our furniture buying guide, or check out our furniture myth-busting blog.

Considering the benefits of custom dining furniture? Give us a call or visit your nearest Colder's today for the whole home experience you deserve!