Choosing a dining table
Choosing the right dining table for your kitchen or dining room

To choose the right size, it is enough to have an idea of ​​the kitchen furniture standards that manufacturers adhere to.

Space for one person
Seating arrangement for one person at a dining table

The calculation is as follows: one person comfortably occupies a tabletop area equal to a rectangle of 60x40 cm; we multiply these numbers by the number of family members - we get the minimum permissible dimensions.

Selecting table sizes
The choice of table size depends on the number of seats and its shape.

Minimal means that slightly larger sizes are also acceptable, even desirable. For example, the free space can be used to place a flower vase or other decor. It is easier to tolerate the presence of "extra" space than the lack of what is needed.

Select a table by size
Kitchen tables should be selected taking into account the rules of ergonomics

Standard kitchen table sizes

  • 4 persons: 80x120 – 100x150
  • 6 persons: 80x180 – 100x200
  • 8 persons: 80x240 – 100x260
  • 12 persons: 80x300 – 100x320

Dimensions are given in centimeters.

There are also miniature tables for two 60x80 cm – as practice shows, it is risky to furnish with them. Let's imagine a newlywed couple: it is logical to assume that only two dining places are needed. But what if they invite friends, decide to have a child or relatives come to visit?

Small table for two
Small table for two for a small kitchen

A little spare space is necessary, even when it is used occasionally. Therefore, the optimal dimensions of a “small family” dining table are 80x120 cm. Alternatively, it can be foldable: able to increase the area when needed.

The standard shape is a rectangle.
The standard shape is a rectangle that can comfortably accommodate four people.

Rectangular table

Rectangular dining table shape
The rectangular shape of the dining table is the most convenient for both everyday use and festive dinners.

Above we talked specifically about the rectangular shape – the most common, most convenient option, allowing you to get the maximum usable area of ​​the tabletop even with minimal overall dimensions.

Rectangular table for 8 people
Rectangular table for 8 people for living room
Wooden tables
Wooden tables are the most durable, long-lasting and reliable and can be rectangular in shape.

Square shaped table

Folding square table
A folding square table is a great solution for a small space

Less versatile. A square has the same length of edges: in fact, only a table for four can be like this (dimensions are approximately 100x100 cm or slightly larger). It is best to equip a small-sized, square-shaped kitchen unit with such a piece of furniture - design elements that repeat the geometry of the room look most advantageous.

A square table can also be placed against a wall.
A square table can be placed against a wall or in a corner, but it looks more compact.
Square shaped table
Square dining table for dining room

Round table

Round table
A distinctive feature of round tables is their elusive charm and elegance.

A family may consist of, for example, five people. How to seat an odd number of eaters so that everyone is comfortable? A round table would be a good solution: the circle can be easily divided into the required number of sectors without a remainder.

Unusual black table
Unusual glossy black round table for living room

And it looks more original – in fact, it is the appearance that often encourages the consumer to buy such furniture. Although this is not its only advantage, it is the most obvious one.

Table models without sharp corners
Table models without sharp corners will be the best solution if there are small children in the family.

Standard sizes (diameter in centimeters):

  • 3-4 persons – 110
  • 5-6 persons – 130
  • 7-8 persons – 150

Other sizes exist, but they are not standard. The larger the circle, the more unused space remains in its center. Excessively large tables contradict the laws of home ergonomics. Although their use is acceptable in banquet halls, where pompous furniture is intended to emphasize the luxury of the room design.

Large table for 10 people
Large beautiful round table for 10 people

Oval shaped table

Oval table
An oval table is more comfortable than a round one and more original than a rectangular one, and also safer, since it has no corners.

The oval combines the advantages of round and rectangular: it is roomy, practical, and at the same time looks unusual. A good choice for a living room or a spacious modern kitchen.

Beautiful and stylish table
Beautiful and stylish oval table for a spacious dining room

When talking about size standards, we will only consider the length in centimeters, since the width of an oval dining table is always about a meter.

  • 4-6 persons – 150
  • 7-8 persons – 180
  • 9-10 persons – not less than 210
Folding oval table for living room in classic style
Folding oval table for living room in classic style
The absence of corners on an oval table
The absence of corners on an oval table gives the impression of sophistication and at the same time safety.

Choosing the optimal size: what else to pay attention to

Small bar table
Small bar table with convenient storage shelves
White small table on a leg
White small round table on a leg in the center of a small but cozy and beautiful kitchen

A small kitchen area is still an objective reality in many apartments. In order to save space, owners are sometimes forced to place the dining table right up against the wall, thereby halving the useful area of ​​the tabletop.

Pull-out table
Pull-out table for a very small kitchen

Non-standard, narrow long tabletops (including folding and collapsible ones) stylized as a bar counter that fit well into the space of small kitchens help to avoid this. If the dimensions of the room, on the contrary, are extremely huge, non-standard will serve as the best choice here too.

Long rectangular and oval tables
For large dining rooms, long rectangular and oval tables are ideal, complemented by matching chairs.

For a spacious dining room, a rectangular or oval table over three meters long is simply necessary for aesthetic reasons.

Folding table and chair
Folding table and chair in the kitchen interior

Video: How to choose the right dining table

50 photo ideas for placing tables of different shapes for different numbers of people in the kitchen, dining room or living room: