Round, Rectangle, Oval or Square? We have some tips on choosing the table that’s right for you.
A dining table may just be the most important piece of furniture in your home. It sees family meals, celebrations, game nights and homework sessions. It’s where you laugh, bond and share memories. It will probably be the one piece of furniture that doesn’t change when it’s time to renovate.
Knowing that it’s a lasting investment and place that will function in multiple ways, it’s important to understand the different shapes of tabletops you can get, what each shape accomplishes and which one is right for you.
Rectangular- Easily the most popular and frequently chosen design, a rectangular table often symmetrically compliments the shape of a room. It gives a sense of structure and tradition. Long rectangular tables can help break up a large space while still remaining functional. And, knowing that rectangular tables are quite common, (not that it’s a bad thing!) the chairs and decor you choose to place around it are even more important.
Round- Often seen in dinette sets, round dining tables are a nice alternative to a rectangular table. Round tables send a message of openness and inclusion. They can easily accommodate extra guests and as long as the chair size is taken into consideration, they are just as spacious as a rectangular table.
Oval- A combination of both round and rectangular tables, an oval table can be both casual and sophisticated. Having rounded corners an oval table gives a sense of inclusion, similar to a round table, but its sleek, straight side edges lend itself to fine dining.
Square- A less common shape for a dining table, it can be either a small two person table or large enough to fit a holiday feast. A small square dining table is perfect for limited space or as a breakfast nook. A large square table, while less common, can be used to take up a large space. A square table can make reaching for food complicated at times and with everyone so spread out, can make it hard to hear everyone. But, we like square tables for their symmetry and modern twist on dining spaces.
Some other important factors to think about are:
-How often will you be using your dining table? Every meal? Only special occasions?
- If it’s going to see a lot of wear and tear, it’s good to look for high quality and durable tables, whereas if it’s going to used seldomly, like formal events, a more ornate design may be appropriate.
-How many people will be sitting at it regularly? What about for special occasions?
- This is where the size of your room, the table and the design of your dining chairs come into play. If you’re regularly hosting large gatherings a rectangle or oval shaped table may be more appropriate. If you’re room’s dimensions are more square in shape, a round table may fit in nicely.
-What about extension tops and drop-leaf tops?
- Short on space? This type of top may be the best fit for you. It will allow you to save space on a regular basis, but will also allow you to host larger parties when you want.
No matter the theme of your dining space, we recommend considering functionality first. Look into what shapes and sizes will fit best in your dining space. Then move to size once you’ve determined how often and how many people will typically be hosted. After landing on the right table, we recommend moving to chairs. You don’t want choose a chair that ends up being too bulky around your table!
If you have any questions or other ideas we’d love to hear them! Add your comment below!
Interested in talking with someone? Our friendly and knowledgeable sales team is always here to answer any questions you may have at (888) 390-5571. If you’re in the Vernon, VT area or passing through, we’d love to see you at our Stonehurst Showroom, open seven days week!
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This blog is written by your friends at Vermont Woods Studios. Check out our Vermont made furniture and home decor online and visit our showroom and art gallery at Stonehurst, the newly restored 1800s farmhouse nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains.
