Modern Dining Table Purchasing Guide

If you are like most of us, you probably don`t buy a new Dining Table every six months. You will use yours for anywhere between 5 and 10 years. So, choosing your dining table shouldn`t be done in a hurry.

To help you make the right decision, we`ve put together this dining table buying guide. Following these seven easy tips will allow you to choose a table that best matches your home, lifestyle and taste – a design that you will love for many years to come.

MEASURE YOUR SPACE

Don`t fall in love with a design, only to have to [figure out" ways to make it work. Save yourself the time (and heartache) and instead establish the workable space your new dining table must fit. Measure the length and width of your allocated space. Then minus 80-100cm from each dimension. Why?

To avoid a cramped and unwelcoming dining environment, your table will ideally need around 90cm of space on all sides. If you have a very small room or a space with changing uses, consider a convertible design – one that can transform into a coffee or console table for example.

GET IN SHAPE

This isn`t set in stone but, like it or not, certain table shapes just work better within certain room shapes.

The rule of thumb is:

- Square and circular table tops do well in square rooms.

- But they will look and feel awkward in rectangular spaces.

- Rectangular and oval-shaped tables best suit rectangular rooms.

- But will look and feel awkward in square spaces.

BUILD A MOCK-UP

If you have a shortlist of table shapes and sizes, but are still unsure, this could help. Measure and mark out the table top on the floor with magazines. Then arrange dining chairs as they would stand. Pull out a chair. Sit down. Walk around. Use this simple and inexpensive trick to get an idea of how you, the table and the room will interact.