A dining table isn’t just a piece of furniture—it’s where life happens. From everyday breakfasts to big holiday dinners, if tables could talk, they’d have a story for every person who’s ever pulled up a chair. Most tables, though, do share one thing: standard sizes. And there’s a reason for that. Plates, tablecloths, rugs, and even chairs are all designed with these measurements in mind.
Picking the right-sized table makes a big difference. Everyone gets enough room to butter their rolls without leaning over or having to shout across the table. On this page, you’ll get a simple rundown of common table sizes and some practical tips to help you choose the perfect dining or coffee table that fits your space—and your style—just right.
Dining Table Sizes
Most dining tables come in three main shapes: rectangular, square, or round. The shape you choose will affect how wide and deep your table is. Here’s a quick look at typical dimensions for each style.
Square Tables: Square tables are perfect for seating four people comfortably. Their width usually falls between 36″ and 44″. Many square tables are designed a bit taller—around 34″ to 36″—so they often have a counter-height feel rather than a standard dining table height.
Rectangular Tables: Rectangular tables are the most popular choice, especially when you’re thinking about how many people you want to host. Most of them range from 36″ to 40″ wide. For a cozy four-person setup, aim for a table about 48″ long. If you want to seat four to six people comfortably, look for one that’s at least 60″ long. For six to eight guests, you’ll need a table that’s roughly 78″ in length. A good rule of thumb is to allow about 24″ of space per person at the table.
Round Tables: When it comes to round tables, the key measurement is the diameter. Like square tables, they’re ideal for smaller gatherings and fit neatly into tighter spaces. Round tables—like our George table—often become the heart of family life. One minute they’re covered in homework and bills, the next they’re hosting a relaxed family dinner.
For seating, a table with a 36″ to 44″ diameter works well for four people. If you want to fit four to six guests, aim for a diameter between 44″ and 54″. For six to eight diners, look for a table that’s 54″ or larger.
Standard Dining Table Heights
Most dining tables sit between 28″ and 30″ tall, a comfortable height that lets people easily rest their feet on the floor—perfect for everything from everyday meals to more formal dinners.
Tables come in a few different height options. A counter-height table, usually around 36″, matches the height of a kitchen island or bar. These work well for casual settings and are surprisingly versatile, doubling as a spot for homework, snacks, or family dinners.
For a more relaxed vibe, a 42″ bar-height table gives you the freedom to switch between standing and sitting. Often called a gathering table or pub table, these taller tables are ideal for entertaining guests and creating a lively, social atmosphere.
Lighting Above Your Table
Make sure there’s enough space between your table and any overhead lighting. In a room with an 8-foot ceiling, for example, the bottom of a chandelier should hang about 30 to 36 inches above the tabletop. This keeps the light at the perfect height—bright enough to see everything clearly, but not in anyone’s eyes.
Table Length
The shape and size of a square, rectangular, or oval dining table play a big role in how many people can sit comfortably. For instance, a smaller table around 36″ to 44″ or 48″ long works well with one person on each side. On a longer table—say 102″ to 108″—you can fit three or four chairs along each long edge, depending on the size and style of your dining chairs.
If you occasionally host larger gatherings, consider a table with one or two extendable leaves. This lets you adjust the table length whenever you need extra seating. Many different styles with extendable leaves are available to fit a variety of spaces and occasions.
Table Depth (or Width)
The depth—or width—of a dining table plays a big role in how many seats you can fit at the ends. For example, a table that’s 38″ to 40″ deep is usually perfect for one chair at each end. A wider table, around 48″, can comfortably accommodate two chairs on either side, giving everyone plenty of elbow room while dining.
Key Considerations
When choosing a dining table, it helps to start by looking at standard table proportions and then exploring your options. Keeping a few key factors in mind can make picking the right size much easier.
Standard Dining Room Dimensions
Consider the measurements of your space. Kelson, a furniture designer, often works closely with clients to create floor plans. His advice? You’ll usually want about 2½ to 3 feet of clearance around the table so people can walk comfortably when the chairs are pushed in. This ensures your dining area feels open and functional, not cramped.
Seating Arrangements
How many people usually gather around your table? Do you sometimes need a few extra chairs? Extendable tables give you the flexibility to adjust seating as needed. For example, adding a leaf to a round table can turn it into an oval. A 48″ round pedestal table can stretch to 66″ with an 18″ leaf, comfortably seating six people. A larger 54″ round table can expand to 72″ to fit eight guests.
If you only occasionally host bigger gatherings, you might consider adding an extra leaf. Just make sure to measure your space so the table can fully extend without crowding the room.
The right table size and style can set the tone for a warm dining room or a cozy eat-in kitchen. All you need to complete the scene are good food, fresh flowers, and the company of family and friends.
Coffee Table Dimensions
At Hanse Furniture, you’ll find coffee tables in all sorts of shapes—hexagonal, rectangular, oval, round, and square—offering even more variety than dining tables. When it comes to height, your coffee table should sit about one to two inches below your sofa cushions, which usually means a height between 15″ and 20″. Several factors influence the size of your coffee table, including the layout of your room and the table’s shape.
A good rule of thumb is that your coffee table should be roughly half the length of your couch. The depth of the table should also complement your space. If it looks and feels right in the room, it probably is the perfect fit.
Finding the Right Table for Your Space
Whether you’re outfitting a dining room or a living area, the experts at George Furniture can help you choose a table that turns your home into a welcoming haven. Stop by a George Furniture store today, or visit our showroom in Foshan, China, to see our full collection in person.
