People can be put off buying dining tables because they feel overwhelmed by the many options, but we get that. This is why the Vignettes Home design experts enjoy helping clients narrow down the choices. We start by asking the right questions, noting the answers, and then we leave room for experimentation. Whether you have a smaller dining area in an apartment or space to entertain 20, our inventory from top brand names has you covered.
Determining Which Dining Table is Right for Your Home
Size Considerations
The dimensions of your dining area dictate the table’s size. Measure your space, allowing a minimum of 36″ clearance around the table for comfortable movement. No one wants to feel squished, so avoid buying too-large tables just to fit in more chairs.
In compact areas, a small dining table won’t overwhelm the room. They’re round or square, seat two to four, and fit snugly into limited space. You might consider an extendable dining table that stretches out through an entryway into another room. This feature accommodates extra guests for larger gatherings, and closes up to its original size for daily use.
Dining Table Material Options
The material of a dining table should reflect your style, but it should also be durable and easy to care for.
- Wood, a classic choice, is always trending. Oak or walnut withstands daily use and ages gracefully, developing a patina over the years. To maintain its good looks, polish it often.
- Glass tables are modern and sophisticated, and make smaller rooms appear larger. But they smudge easily and require frequent cleaning.
- Metal tables have a modern (or even industrial) edge, especially when paired with wood or glass. They can be minimalistic or more ornate. Metal resists wear, which makes it ideal for busy meal times.
- Engineered wood or veneer gives the look of solid wood at a lower cost.
Other Areas You Can Put Dining Room Tables
If you don’t have a formal dining room, a five-piece counter-height dining set suits casual settings. Also called pub tables, these profiles are taller, saving floor space and comfortably seating four or more. Some of our clients compare the aesthetic to a bar-like experience; it’s beautifully suited for entertaining and works well in kitchens.
Traditional designs, like a dining table with spindle legs, add elegance, charm, and ornate details. We suggest this design for classic or farmhouse interiors.
Modern dining tables are about clean lines and minimalism, sometimes with sleek metal or glass. Mid-century modern tables, with tapered legs and organic shapes, mix up retro flair and contemporary appeal. Finally, for eclectic homes, mixing styles like a rustic wooden table with modern chairs creates a curated look.
Consider the table’s finish, too: matte or distressed for a casual vibe or glossy for sophistication.
We Have the Best Dining Tables in Galena, IL & Dubuque, IA
Visit Vignettes Home to browse a curated selection of tables with choices that will suit your taste and budget. We have stunning options for every space and aesthetic, for a dining area that feels uniquely yours. Visit our showrooms or contact us for a consultation in Galena, IL; and Dubuque, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Platteville, Iowa.