Are you on a mission to transform your dining room into an inviting space to gather with your family and friends? If so, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll face is choosing the right size dining table or dining set. But where should you even begin? After all, there are so many different table options and different factors to consider.
“So, what size dining table do I need?” Here at Woodstock Furniture & Mattress Outlet, shoppers ask us for our help in answering this question on a daily basis. But the truth is, only you can know what works best for your space, your family, and your home. You already have the clues you need to crack the case, our job is simply to help you put them all together.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the best process to figure out the perfect fit for your dining space. From measuring your table and dining area, to seating capacities and space considerations, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Two Key Factors to Help You Choose the Right Table Size
When shoppers inevitably come in shopping for dining tables or dining sets, we commonly hear questions about how to figure out the right table size for their dining needs. Now ideally, you’d like to have some details like measurements / dimensions squared away before going furniture shopping, but if not, that’s okay.
There are really just two key factors that will determine the ideal dining set or dining table size for your dining area. Once you know the answers to the questions below, you’ll have a clear path forward.
(1) How Many Seats Do You Need at the Table?
The first thing you need to think about is the number of people you’d ideally like to seat. Is this dining set going to be in the kitchen for daily use with only the immediate members of your family? Or is your new dining table going in a large, formal dining room meant for entertaining large groups? Perhaps something in between?
Keep in mind that even a modest square or circular table can often seat at least 4 people. This may be enough if your family is small, you have a small dining area, or don’t have company over often. However, most people with a dedicated dining room want something bigger. The most popular seating arrangements for rectangular and oval tables seat 6 or 8 people, although setups with 10 are common also. How many seats do you think you need at your new table?
(2) How Much Space Do You Have Available in Your Dining Room or Dining Area?
Secondly, it’s essential to measure your existing table and/or your available dining space. Make sure to write down the measurements for the long and short sides of your existing table (or the diameter for a round table) if you plan to replace it. Otherwise, take the measurements of the dining area where you want to place your new table. Then bring these notes with you as you shop for your new dining table or dining set.
However, it’s not always quite that simple. Especially if you’re not replacing an existing kitchen or dining table. Keep in mind that if you measure your dining area, those are merely the raw dimensions of the room. As we’ll get into below, there are a few additional measurements to consider to determine if a table is too large or small for your space and seating capacity.
Popular Dining Table Sizes / Dimensions
Dining tables are available in a great many sizes, shapes and dimensions. For purposes of today’s guide however, we’re focusing on rectangular and oval tables since they are the most popular.
Please note that while most consumers may call the longest measurement of a table the “length”, this measurement is actually considered the table’s width. Similarly, the perpendicular measurement that you may refer to as the “width” is technically the dimension that we in the furniture industry call the depth.
Typical table widths begin at 60” (5 ft) and can range up to 108” (9 ft). Meanwhile, table depth measurements almost all fit between 36” (3 ft) and 48” (4 ft). However, keep in mind that thanks to table leaves, these tables may come with an extra 12, 18, or even 24 inches of expandable width.
4 Rules to Help You Get Your Measurements Right
Finally, here are a few rules-of-thumb to go by while taking your measurements and doing your calculations:
1) Allow at least 24” of table space per person seated at the table. When you calculate to see how many chairs or guests will fit at your table, every chair or place setting should require a minimum of 24 inches of space.
2) Additionally, allow at least 2” minimum between seats. Preferably more. Please note that 2” is a really tight fit between diners around your table. As a result, a 6” gap between chairs is preferred, but not necessary. When calculating how much capacity a given table can accommodate, be sure to add this number to the 24” allowed for each chair.
3) Be sure to allow a minimum of 36” between the table and walls or other furniture. Keep in mind that you need at least 18 to 24 inches of clearance in order to pull out your dining chairs and sit in them. A 36-inch minimum ensures that not only can your family sit at the table, but that you can get through behind them while they’re seated. If possible, even more space than 36” is preferable.
4) Area rugs should extend at least 24” on either side of the table. This tip is for those who already have a dining room rug and are trying to find a table that fits appropriately. Ultimately, the goal is to make sure that all 4 legs of each chair fit on the rug, even while being used. The lone exception to this rule is that in dining areas with limited space, it is permissible for the back legs of the chairs at the ends of the table to come off of the rug.
[Editor’s Note: For more info on rug size and placement in your dining room, don’t miss our rug size guide for every room in your home, and our article on rug placement.]
More Questions About Dining Rooms, Dining Sets, or Décor? Don’t Be Shy!
Congratulations! Armed with the knowledge you’ve gained from this short guide, you’re now equipped to find the perfect dining table for your home. Remember to measure your dining space (or existing dining table) before you go shopping, consider how many seats you’re likely to need, and remember to leave sufficient space between chairs and between the dining table and its surroundings. By following these tips, you’re sure to create a dining area full of memorable moments and enjoyable conversations.
What is that? You still have questions? Feel free to browse our catalog of articles on dining rooms, dining tables, and décor for your dining room. This extensive collection of resources includes our guide to different dining room styles, a list of our best-selling dining room collections, a guide to different types of table leaves, our comprehensive guide to different dining chair styles, and much, much, more!
Lastly, we’d love to hear from you in our convenient and easy web chat. Our experts are waiting to assist you with all of your dining room needs! If you’re in the North Georgia or Metro Atlanta area, come visit us at our 3 furniture stores in Woodstock/Acworth, Dallas/Hiram, and Rome today!
