There is a lot more to consider than you might think when it comes to finding the perfect dining table for your home.

A dining table is the heart of any home. It’s where you eat, converse, come together, do work and help the little ones with their homework. This makes finding the perfect dining table an important part of perfecting your home décor, improving both the look and feel of your home. So, if you feel like your home could benefit from a stunning new dining table, we’re here to show you how to do it right.

We’ve put together this essential guide to finding the perfect dining table to help answer any queries you may have about the process. Whether you’re struggling to get the measurements right or pick the best materials, we are here to help.

The questions you need to ask to find the right dining table:

Anybody who has done a bit of online browsing for a dining table knows that there are hundreds of options available, which can make this process daunting. But don’t let yourself get overwhelmed. Instead, use the following questions to help you narrow down your search and ultimately find a dining table that meets all your requirements.

Photo source: Vinterior

If you’re planning to simply use your table for everyday dining, you’ll need an option that’s durable and easy to clean, which is also true if your dining table acts as the hub of family activity. However, if this is the case, you’ll also want a table with a warm and welcoming design, with plenty of room for non-dining items like laptops and books.

If your dining table is likely to be used mostly for special occasions and entertaining, then you’ll want to choose a luxurious design with a bit of wow factor. You can afford to choose something slightly less durable, but features like an extending option can come in handy.

If you’re only looking to house 2 to 4 people at your dining table, you have a lot of options. Many ‘two seater’ dining tables can seat up to four people, which is helpful if you’re tight on space. If you’re looking for a table that can seat 4 to 6 people, you’ll be looking in the most common category of dining tables. Even if you only need four seats on a daily basis, having a table with the capacity to seat six is a good idea as you’ll have room for guests.

A 6 to 8 seater dining table is a true statement piece. You’ll need to have the space to pull it off, but investing in a larger dining table can bring elegance and luxury to your home, which is sure to wow your guests.

If you’re looking for a crisp look with clean lines and a modern feel, then a glossy or matt table finish will probably suit your needs perfectly. Alternatively, a timber or wood table will bring both texture and homeliness to your dining room, while also helping it feel like a classic, timeless space.

For those who prefer more modern dining, a clear glass dining table will help to create a fresh, open and light space, while frosted glass will create the same effect but will provide a durable option with added softness.

You should consider an extending dining table if you entertain regularly. It may also be a useful option if you have space that you need to fill, or if you’re after a versatile seating arrangement which can be tailored to suit your needs.

If you are particularly short on space, you probably don’t need an extending dining table. This is also true if you don’t see the need for extra seating or if you simply don’t think you would benefit from the extension.

If you do go for an extending dining table, stackable or folding chairs are often the best seating option, as these can also be put to one side when you don’t need them.

A classic rectangular dining table arguably has the most options available and is easy to fit into most dining rooms. You can choose options which will give your home a more luxurious feel or go rustic by pairing a simple design with dining benches. If you have a particular theme in mind you may also wish to opt for a vintage dining table and chairs or a mid-century dining table.

A square dining table will provide a spacious and open feel which offers plenty of surface space for mealtimes and general day to day living. It’s also easy to fit into an unused corner for a cosier dining experience.

Round or oval dining tables give off a social feel and will help you make the most of the space available.

Measuring both a possible dining table and the space you’re hoping to put it in will give you the peace of mind that you’ve made a perfect match.

When it comes to measuring your dining table, there are several different dimensions which you will need to take into account. Luckily, we have broken them down for you:

Table Height

This is the height of your table from the bottom of the legs to the table top. It’s a key factor for when it comes to finding suitable dining chairs.

Table length

The length of your table is the measurement from one end to the other. This is the most important measurement for working out whether a table will fit into the designated space.

Table width

This is the measurement of your table from front to back. If you are planning on using the table ends, this is particularly important.

Inner table leg length

This is the length of the table between table legs, not the length of the table top. This is important for fitting dining chairs and giving each individual at the table enough personal space. Don’t forget that elbows tend to stick out when people are eating.

Apron

This is the depth of the table top, which will differ depending on the material and style you choose.

Remember, if you choose an extending table then you’ll need to note down the measurements for the table both with and without extensions, to ensure it fits comfortably in the space.

There are endless choices when it comes to picking the perfect dining room table style, but now that you’ve narrowed down your options in terms of requirements and size it should be easier to find the perfect option.

If you’re looking for a unique style, consider the benefits of shopping for a vintage dining table and chairs. Options like those available from Vinterior will fill your home with a sense of history, luxury and wow-factor. You won’t even need to do much in the way of styling your table, as the vintage material and design will speak for itself. Ercol dining tables are right on trend currently, so it’s well worth giving this a thought before you make a purchase.

Alternatively, you could choose more contemporary design, using materials like chrome or glass, for a light, bright option which will maximise your space. Keep in mind that if you’re looking for a durable design to survive daily family life, wood is often the best choice.