7 Essential Tips for Choosing Dining Room Furniture
Selecting the right dining room furniture involves more than just finding pieces that fit your space—it’s about creating a welcoming environment where you can enjoy meals and entertain guests. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing your current dining room, these tips will help you make informed choices that blend style, comfort, and functionality.
1. Measure Your Space
● Accurate Measurements: Start by measuring the dimensions of your dining room, including the length, width, and height. This will help you determine the maximum size of your dining table and the number of chairs that will comfortably fit.
● Allow for Movement: Ensure there’s enough space around the table for people to move comfortably. Aim for at least 36 inches (90 cm) between the table and walls or other furniture. For larger rooms, consider leaving 48 inches (120 cm) of space to allow for more movement.
2. Choose the Right Table Shape
● Rectangular Tables: These are the most common and versatile option, fitting well in most dining rooms. They’re ideal for larger gatherings and can often be extended to accommodate more guests.
● Round or Oval Tables: These shapes are great for smaller spaces and promote a more intimate dining experience. Round tables also work well in square rooms, while oval tables can soften the look of a rectangular room.
● Square Tables: Best suited for square-shaped rooms, square tables offer a balanced look and are perfect for smaller groups.
3. Select the Appropriate Table Size
● Size Matters: The size of your dining table should match the scale of your room and the number of people you plan to seat regularly. A table that’s too large can overwhelm the space, while a table that’s too small may not meet your needs.
● Seating Capacity: As a general rule, allow about 24 inches (60 cm) of table length per person for comfortable seating. For a round table, aim for 26 to 30 inches (65 to 75 cm) of space per person.
4. Consider Table Height
● Standard Height: Most dining tables are around 28 to 30 inches (71 to 76 cm) in height. This height works well with standard dining chairs, which are typically 18 inches (46 cm) from the floor to the seat.
● Counter-Height and Bar-Height Tables: These taller tables, ranging from 36 inches (91 cm) for counter height to 42 inches (107 cm) for bar height, are ideal for informal dining areas or open-plan spaces where the dining area flows into the kitchen.
5. Choose Comfortable Dining Chairs
● Chair Comfort: Comfort is key when selecting dining chairs. Look for chairs with supportive backs and well-cushioned seats, especially if you plan to use them for extended periods.
● Chair Size: Ensure the chairs are appropriately sized for your table. The seat height should leave about 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) between the chair seat and the table’s underside. Also, make sure there’s enough room for the chairs to slide in and out easily.
● Mix and Match: Mixing different chair styles or materials can add visual interest and a modern touch to your dining room. Just ensure that the chairs share a common element, such as colour or finish, to maintain cohesion.
6. Think About Durability and Maintenance
● Material Choices: Consider the durability of the materials used in your dining furniture. Solid wood tables are sturdy and long-lasting, while glass or metal tables can offer a more contemporary look. However, keep in mind that glass can show fingerprints and smudges easily, requiring regular cleaning.
● Maintenance Needs: Choose furniture that fits your lifestyle in terms of maintenance. For example, upholstered chairs may require more care to keep clean, while wood tables may need regular polishing to maintain their finish.
7. Lighting Matters
● Proper Lighting: Ensure your dining area is well-lit with the right lighting fixtures. A chandelier or pendant light centred above the table is a popular choice, offering both functional light and aesthetic appeal.
● Light Size and Placement: The fixture should be about 30 to 34 inches (76 to 86 cm) above the table surface for a standard-height table. The size of the light should also be proportionate to the table—large enough to illuminate the space but not so large that it overwhelms the room.
Choosing the right dining room furniture is a balance between functionality, comfort, and style. By taking into account the size of your space, the needs of your household, and your personal design preferences, you can create a dining room that’s both practical and inviting—a place where you’ll love to gather for meals and special occasions.
