How Do I Find The Perfect Kitchen Table?
Determine Your Needs
When shopping for the perfect kitchen table, first take time to determine your needs in terms of size, style, and features to narrow your options.
Consider the size of your kitchen and dining area along with the number of people you plan to seat. General recommendations suggest allowing 24-30 inches per person for comfortable seating (1). This will help determine what table dimensions and shapes will fit your space.
Think about your preferred interior design style – modern, traditional, rustic, etc. Tables come in many materials and finishes to complement different aesthetics. Choose a style you love that will enhance your kitchen decor.
Determine what features will enhance how you use the table day-to-day. Options like storage, drop leaves to expand your surface space, and technology integration for charging devices can be useful additions (2).
Taking the time upfront to determine your size, style, and feature needs will make it easier to zero in on the perfect kitchen table for your home.
(1) https://www.2modern.com/blogs/modern-how-to/how-much-space-do-you-need-around-a-dining-table
(2) https://www.westelm.com/pages/ideas-and-advice/what-size-dining-table/
Measure Your Space
Before selecting the perfect kitchen table, it’s crucial to accurately measure the length, width and ceiling height of your kitchen space.[1] This will determine the maximum dimensions of the table that will fit comfortably. Be sure to account for adequate traffic flow around the table perimeter when all the chairs are pushed out. According to Ideas.Rejuvenation.com, allow for at least 24 inches clearance on all sides of the table.[2]
Experts recommend using a tape measure, straight edge and graph paper to ensure accuracy when measuring. It’s advisable to measure the kitchen clockwise, recording the length of each wall and the locations of windows, doors and other fixtures. Consider any planned remodels or adjustments to the kitchen layout that may impact available space. Quora users emphasize the importance of allowing 36 inches minimum space around the table for general traffic flow.[3]
Choose a Shape
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make when selecting a kitchen table is the shape. The shape impacts both the style and functionality of your table.
The most common and versatile shape is rectangular. Rectangular tables offer the most seating and table space for large gatherings. They’re great for families and can accommodate leaves to expand for holidays or dinner parties.
Round tables are space-saving and promote an intimate feel for smaller gatherings. The compact circular shape allows everyone to see and interact with each other easily.
Square tables have a modern, sleek look. But the 90-degree corners can make fitting square tables in smaller spaces tricky. Measuring carefully is a must.
Oval tables provide a classic oval silhouette while taking up less space than a traditional rectangle. Their softer lines can fit well in many kitchen layouts.
Consider the day-to-day uses of your kitchen table as well as how much room you have available to determine the best shape for your needs and style.
Select a Size
When selecting the size of your kitchen table, the standard widths are 36″, 42″ and 48″. The most common widths are 42″ and 48″, which provide enough surface area for most families without taking up too much space (https://viennawoodworks.com/logkitchenfurniture/log-kitchen-table). The standard lengths for rectangular tables are 60”, 72”, 84” and 96”. Consider going with a smaller size around 60-72” if you have a tight kitchen area. For larger families, a length of 84-96” will provide ample seating and workspace (https://homedesigninstitute.com/question/5964/what_are_the_dimensions_of_a_kitchen_table/).
It’s important to measure the dimensions of your kitchen and dining area to ensure you select a table size that fits your space appropriately. Leave enough clearance around the table for comfortable movement between the table and surrounding walls or furniture. Larger families may prefer a length of 84” or more, while smaller spaces call for a more petite 60” table.
Choose a Style
When selecting a kitchen table style, consider your overall home decor and aesthetic preferences. Three popular styles for today’s kitchen tables include:
Modern
Modern kitchen tables feature sleek, simple lines and minimal ornamentation. These tables work well in contemporary kitchens and go with mid-century or industrial decor. Metal legs and glossy tabletop materials like glass or high-gloss lacquer suit the modern style.
Farmhouse
Farmhouse or rustic kitchen tables have a vintage, distressed appeal. Weathered wood finishes, visible wood grain, and decorative accents like turned legs or aprons suit the farmhouse aesthetic. Farmhouse style remains widely popular in kitchens, from urban lofts to rural family homes.
According to Table Planet, “Most Popular Kitchen Table Styles in Omaha. Farmhouse style remains widely beloved in Omaha homes, from urban lofts to rural family homes.” https://talmonthealth.com/kitchen-table-dining-in-omaha/
Transitional
Transitional kitchen tables blend elements of traditional and modern styles. Transitional tables often feature clean lines along with some ornamental accents, such as turned legs or inlay patterns. This adaptable style transitions well between more formal dining rooms and laidback kitchens.
Pick a Material
When choosing a material for your kitchen table, consider options like wood, metal, and glass:
Wood is a warm, natural material available in many different varieties like oak, maple, and walnut. Wood can give a kitchen table a classic, timeless look and feel. However, wood requires more maintenance like polishing and re-sealing over time (Source: https://atonce.com/blog/best-kitchen-tables).
Metal like stainless steel or aluminum has an industrial vibe and is very durable and easy to clean. However, metal can show fingerprints, scratches, and dents over time. Metal is often used for small cafe-style tables (Source: https://atonce.com/blog/best-kitchen-tables).
Glass tops are lightweight and transparent, allowing you to see the table base underneath. However, glass can scratch or chip over time. Tempered glass is a good option for added strength and safety (Source: https://atonce.com/blog/best-kitchen-tables).
Add Special Features
Special features can make your kitchen table even more functional and convenient. Consider the following popular options:
Extension leaf for expandable seating: An extension leaf allows you to expand the table surface for extra seating when needed. Look for tables with removable leaves that easily slide into place and are flush with the main tabletop when inserted (https://www.scavolini.com/us/magazine/the-must-have-characteristics-of-dining-tables).
Built-in storage for convenience: Many tables offer storage space like shelves, cabinets, or drawers built right into the base. This provides a place to tuck away table linens, silverware, dishes, or serving pieces for quick access during meals (https://theplumednest.com/10-must-have-features-for-the-perfect-dining-table/).
Caster wheels for mobility: Adding caster wheels to the legs allows you to move the table around your kitchen with ease. Locking casters help keep the table securely in place once positioned (https://www.woodstockoutlet.com/blog/types-dining-table-styles).
Select Complementary Seating
The chairs and seating that accompany your kitchen table are an important consideration for both form and function. Choose seating that complements the table in terms of comfort, height and style.
Bench seating can allow more people to fit around a table, while individual chairs provide more flexibility. Consider your needs and preferences.
Look for chairs with swivel and caster features to allow for easy movement and conversation flow around the table. Test chairs for ample padding and ergonomic back support.
Aim for chairs that are similar in height to your table to create a cohesive look. The chairs should slide neatly under the table when not in use.
Upholstered chairs provide comfort while wood chairs match nicely to a wood table. Choose seating in a style and material that complements your kitchen’s decor.
Check Reviews
Before making a final decision on a kitchen table, it’s important to check reviews from other customers. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the table’s durability, quality, and value for money. Specifically, look for reviews that mention:
Durability – A kitchen table needs to stand up to daily use and last for years. Check if the table seems sturdy and well-constructed based on reviews. Look for mentions of wobbling, scratches, or other damage occurring with normal use.
Quality – Reviews should indicate if the materials and construction seem high or low quality. Quality details like smooth finishes, strong welds/joints, and solid wood can be gleaned from customer reviews. Make sure any product photos match the table you would receive.
Value for Money – Determine if reviewers felt the price matched the quality level. A cheap table that falls apart quickly won’t save money long-term. But an overpriced table isn’t a good value either. Seek reviews confirming you get durability and quality for a fair price.
Ease of Assembly – Many kitchen tables require some assembly. Reviews will reveal how difficult or straightforward the process is. Look for any issues with unclear instructions, missing parts, or complicated steps.
Delivery and Customer Service – Check for reviews mentioning damage during shipping or difficulties with the retailer. Good ratings for delivery and customer service provide confidence in the purchase process.
Taking time to research reviews helps avoid disappointments and find a great kitchen table that will serve your home well. Let customers who have already purchased guide you towards durable, high quality tables with good value.
Set Your Budget
When searching for the perfect kitchen table, it’s important to set realistic expectations for your budget. High quality kitchen tables can range greatly in price, with some costing over $1,000. While you don’t need to break the bank for a great table, also avoid gravitating towards the cheapest options.
Consider looking for sales and discounts when shopping. Retail holidays like Black Friday and Labor Day often deeply discount furniture, including kitchen tables. You can also browse clearance sections both online and in stores. Just make sure to thoroughly inspect any discounted table for defects before purchasing.
In the end, focus on investing in a quality table built to last over a cheap table that will need frequent replacing. Well-constructed tables made of durable materials like hardwoods or thick gauges of metal will stay looking great for years to come. Though pricier upfront, a quality investment will save you money and headaches down the road.
