The dining table is the focal point of a kitchen or dining room and, with all the demands of modern life, it has a myriad of different uses – from special occasion meals to mid-week homework. When it comes to choosing the right dining room design, we are surrounded by so much choice that it can be difficult to make a decision. Here we have put together a guide to help you find a dining table with the right balance of form and function.
Consider your dining space first as this will determine the required size and shape of your table. It is advisable to allow between 106-122cm between the table and the walls to enable guests to move in and out comfortably. As for the shape, round tables are a smart choice for smaller spaces whereas rectangular tables will maximise space in a long, thin room.
To achieve continuity in the style, try to consider the architectural features of your kitchen or dining room, including the the accent colours of accessories and existing finishes. You might choose to mix materials. Our advice is to make sure there is cohesion throughout.
Here is our shortlist:
- The classic wooden table will never go out of fashion. The Trentino Dining Table from Heal’s (£1,629) is a great example of a well-crafted piece of furniture; the traditional crisscross base provides stability and the matching top is handcrafted from wild oak.
- Mixing materials is an enduring trend that is expected to continue into spring/summer 2018. This Dulwich Table from Swoon Editions (£449) is understated, yet elegant. The combination of mango wood and the high-shine steel tabletop creates a contemporary contrast while the clean-cut lines and simple shape show dedication to mid-century minimalism.
- Glass tables are a practical option for cleaning and giving the illusion of light and space. This Triio Dining Table from Skandium (£2,625) is a celebration of Danish design, launched by Danish architect Hans Bølling. The addition of tinted glass and brass accents gives a contemporary feel while the shape creates a convivial mood for dinner parties.
- Hosting family meals is the most noble function of any dining table and extendable options are a practical solution. The Jenson Table from Made.com (£599) features an extendable leaf underneath the tabletop so it can upsize from seating six to eight people. The solid oak table is modernised with the tapered, boomerang legs and designed with a Scandinavian-refectory look in mind.
- Nothing says luxury like the elegant texture of marble with its characteristic swirls and veins. This Screw Table from British designer Tom Dixon (£1,070) is 90-cm in diameter with a striking brass base that would create a focal point in any room.
Alternatively, we can build you a bespoke table design using a worksurface to match or contrast with the worktop in your kitchen and legs that can be painted in any colour, or to match your cabinetry.
Our expert designers are ready to help you start planning your kitchen. Book a complimentary design consultation to discuss ways to achieve the perfect dining area. Find your nearest Harvey Jones showroom here, or call 0800 389 6938 to speak with a designer.
