With the holidays just around the corner, many have been planning family get-togethers, Thanksgiving dinners, and Christmas parties. There’s a lot to prepare when you’re hosting, such as groceries, cooking, and of course the dining table. Whether it’s for a new home or you’re in the market for a replacement, this article will help you choose the perfect dining table to wow all your holiday guests!

Round or Rectangular?

Choosing the perfect dining table for your home begins with choosing the right table shape. But how do you know which shape you need? There are two primary factors to consider: the size of your dining room or area, and the number of people you need to seat.

If you have a smaller space or don’t need as many seats, square and round dining tables are great options. This is especially true if you have a square dining area to match. A smaller table like this is ideal for about 3-6 people. It makes the gathering feel more intimate as people can easily see and interact with everyone else. However, large round dining tables, don’t offer the same benefit. On top of being unwieldy and not fitting in most spaces, it will feel like people are too far away and you need to shout across the table to have a conversation.

If you have a rectangular space or you need to seat a large number of people, then a longer rectangular or oval table might be a better fit. A rectangular dining table is probably one of the most common table shapes as most homes have a rectangular room. It also easily seats more than four people –perfect for large families or those who frequently host large gatherings. This shape also lends itself to more narrow spaces, especially if you get a custom dining table made. A disadvantage of a long table is the lack of intimacy. Those seated on opposite ends of a 10-seater likely won’t interact as much.

If you have the space, but only host people during special occasions, you can also explore tables with an extension leaf. These extendable dining tables are a great solution for holidays and rare visits from distant relatives. On a regular day, your table doesn’t take up the whole room and comfortably seats your family of 4. When guests come over, it can transform to accommodate maybe 6-8 people.

Wood, Glass, or Stone?

After choosing the size and shape, the next thing to consider is the material and finish of your new dining table. When choosing a material, you have to balance factors such as the price, durability, and ease of maintenance. You also have to see how well it matches the design style you’re aiming for.

A wood dining table, especially solid wood, is the classic go-to option. A beautifully stained walnut dining table is certainly attractive and leaves a lasting impression. On top of its natural beauty, solid wood makes for a durable table that’s sure to last you 10 years or more. The downside for many, is that solid wood is expensive. But for a piece of furniture that you want to last a long time, a solid wood dining table is a great investment.

For those that want the coziness and warmth that wood brings into a space, but also want something more affordable, a wood veneer table is a good alternative. With this approach, a very thin layer of solid wood is attached to a plywood or particleboard core.

Of course, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one material. You can combine different materials for your tabletop and table legs. Stones such as marble and quartz composites make for amazing dining tables. It also lends itself well to open plan dining-kitchen setups as your table can be made to match your kitchen counters.

Metals, on the other hand, are often used as table bases. These include stainless steel, brass, and various painted metals. They’re highly durable and stain resistant. You’ve likely seen an industrial-style dining table with black metal legs and a wood tabletop. If you’re going for a more contemporary look for your space, then a metal dining table can be a good option.

If you want a lighter, elegant, and sophisticated look, a glass tabletop can create a powerful statement. Being a clear material, it also helps make a room feel more spacious –a boon for smaller homes and apartments. However, it won’t work out if you’re on the clumsy side or have small children. Glass can easily chip and scratch. It also shows fingerprints, so you have to stay on top of your cleaning.

Custom or Store-bought?

Upon taking many factors into consideration, sometimes you just can’t readily find that exact piece that matches your vision of an ideal dining area. Maybe it’s the color. Maybe it’s the size. Maybe you have a very uniquely shaped room and you want to get the most out of every square inch of it. Whatever the reason, you might be looking into a custom dining table.

The main benefit of a custom piece is having more options. Stock furniture pieces are built in specific sizes, and in limited finishes. This can be a recipe for a headache when you’re trying to match your table with a wall, floor, or fixture in your dining room. With a custom piece, you have free reign over the materials, finishes, colors, size, height, and everything else you can think of.

Custom pieces also come with downsides however. Because it’s made to your exact specifications, you may not be allowed to cancel a custom order once it’s started. It’s best that you’re 100% of what you want before placing your order for this reason. Custom pieces also take a lot of time. You can’t just walk into your local furniture maker and go home the same day with a new table. If you need a new table fast, then a custom piece won’t work. Lastly, there’s the cost factor. Customization and high quality craftsmanship comes with a higher price. If you’re more concerned with lower prices than quality and durability, then stock options are a better option for you.

The Perfect Dining Table

Whatever combination of size, shape, and color of dining table you choose the best one is something that fits both your space and your own personal style. It’s undoubtedly an investment furniture piece, along with the matching dining chairs. Whether you have a traditional dining room or an open floor plan, the dining table is an all-important focal point in your space. Carefully go over your options and consider all angles to make sure you get this essential piece of furniture right.

If you’re having trouble choosing and need professional advice, or you need a custom dining table to meet all your needs, Wood & Co. can be of assistance. Our expertise in design, fabrication, and woodworking can be just what your dining room needs. Get in touch with us, and let’s build the perfect custom dining table for you and your home!