Buying a Dining Table: Find the Perfect Fit for your home.
Your dining table is the heart of your home. A hub for the family to gather around and dissect the day, diffusing tensions over a home-cooked meal or tasty takeaway. Time to reconnect with the family and check in with each other. Buying a dining table is an important investment and choosing the right dining table can be overwhelming. Our guide will help you navigate the process and find the perfect dining table that suits your space, style, and needs.
CONSIDER YOUR DINING SPACE
Before you start shopping, measure your dining area to understand the size constraints. Consider the room size, and ensure there's enough space around the table for chairs to be pulled out comfortably and for people to move around the table. Think about where you’ll be bringing the food to the table and make sure you have room to carry plates and serving dishes. The shape of your room can also influence the shape of your table. Rectangular tables are great for long, narrow rooms, while round or square tables work well in more compact or boxy spaces.
As a general guide allow a minimum of 70cm space between the edge of the table and the wall or any other pieces of furniture, for a more spacious set-up consider around 90cm.
DETERMINE YOUR SEATING NEEDS
Think about how many people you'll typically need to accommodate. And think about special occasions like birthdays, Easter And Christmas when you may have more guests. If you have a large family or frequently entertain, consider a dining bench and a mix of chairs or a dining bench on either side. If you’re short on space a dining bench which fits under the table can be great to keep walkways clear when not in use. A few stackable stools can be a great option for older children and can be stashed away easily. Each person will need at least 60cm of table space if you want more elbow room then go for 80cm if you can.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT WOOD
Oak is a hardwood known for its strength and resilience. This makes oak tables highly durable and able to withstand daily wear and tear. Whether you have a bustling household with kids or frequently entertain guests, an oak table will maintain its integrity and appearance for years to come. Oak's inherent strength and density provide exceptional stability, and when finished with oil can be matched to other wood tones in your home and also easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
CONSIDER STYLE AND DESIGN
Your dining table should complement your home’s decor. Here are a few style considerations:
Industrial Style Dining Table - inspired by loft living and renovated factory apartments this style often teams wood with steel legs or base for a paired back, clean look.
Traditional: Look for tables with solid wooden legs finished in rich wood finishes.
Rustic or Farmhouse style: These tables often feature a more rustic wood and a more casual, homey feel in warmer tones.
Live Edge - Crafted to celebrate the natural beauty of the timber Live Edge combines the natural edge of the table, which is left as the natural shape of the tree itself with a sleek hand-finished top.
QUALITY AND CONSTRUCTION
Quality construction ensures your dining table will stand the test of time. Consider the following:
Joints: Look for tables with mortise-and-tenon or dovetail joints, which are stronger than those held together with nails or staples.
Finish: A good finish not only enhances the table’s appearance but also protects it. How fine has the wood been sanded and how durable is the oil or wax?
Stability: Check for extra structural details such as dowels and metalwork on the underside.
CHOOSING THE CORRECT BASE
Typically a dining table top will be heavy, in the case of Willen Rose we use a 40mm solid wood top which will provide unrivaled stability. The base or legs need to be of top-grade steel to support the weight. Not only from a safety point of view but also the longevity of the table. Look for a substantial base plate which will provide a sturdy anchor point.
If you have chairs in mind, think about how they will work with the base, whether will they fit under the table and where will people's legs be positioned. If you want to make a statement with the base then avoid a traditional seating plan with chairs at the head of the table and opt for matching benches to create a focal point.
A-FRAME TABLE
A solid design with strong lines and appealing angles. A super stable base braced with a base stretcher which gives it that classic A shape. Go for the full look with matching benches and leave the head of the table clear to display that wonderful shape.
X-FRAME TABLE
With simple lines and a steadfast design, The intersecting legs create a strong base that evenly distributes weight, making the table less likely to wobble or tip over. The bold, geometric lines of the X-frame add a striking visual element to any dining space.
TRAPEZIUM FRAME TABLE
The trapezium frame table offers a sleek and contemporary look that can instantly elevate the style of your dining area. The bold lines of the trapezium frame add a touch of modernity and sophistication, making it a standout piece in any room. This unique shape can complement a variety of decor styles, from minimalist and industrial to mid-century modern.
SPIDER FRAME TABLE
The ultimate statement table, the spider frame boasts a distinctive and modern design. The distinctive structure of the legs creates a visually intriguing and dynamic look, adding a touch of contemporary elegance to your space.
CHOOSE YOUR MAKER
- As sustainability becomes ever more important, particularly in the timber industry, Look for sustainable wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
- Ask about where your table will be made, and by who, how many years of experience they have. Don’t shy away from longer lead times for a handmade piece, remember this table should last for many years. It’s an investment for you.
- Will the piece be delivered and made in your room of choice? And what if you move house, how easy will the table be to take down and move?
- Make sure you can have a chat with the maker if possible and sound out your questions, how much contact can you expect throughout the process?
Choosing the perfect solid wood dining table involves balancing style, functionality, and budget. By considering your space, seating needs, preferred material, style, quality, and maintenance, you can find a dining table that not only enhances your home but also becomes a cherished gathering place for years to come.
CONSIDER WILLEN ROSE
When you order a custom-made solid oak table from Willen Rose, expect a lead time of around 6-12 weeks for a handmade piece that will last for years. We follow a traditional 6-step build process, starting with seasoned timber handpicked from trusted suppliers we've used for decades. Owner and maker David, with over 30 years of expertise, uses traditional techniques at his Derbyshire workshop. Our process begins with seasoned timber containing less than 10% moisture. Head to our custom made oak tables page to read more about our processes and craftsmanship.