Dining tables are generally central to the celebration of special occasions and everyday dinners. If tables could talk, I think every table would have a story to tell. Every space is unique, however the sizes of most dining tables are generally standard and can be a relatable story. Of course standards have developed for the sake of practicality. From place settings and table linens to placements of the furniture arrangements or floor plans, the table size is typically common denominator.
For a table to have appropriate dimensions means there is enough room for everyone to spread out while they’re eating – even if they have to yell at each other while across the table to talk to one another. This guide provides a helpful breakdown of dining and coffee table dimensions, plus some useful tips to help you find the best table size and shape for your life and space.
Dining Table Dimensions
Dining tables come in three primary shapes which are rectangular, square, and round. The shape of the table will affect the width and depth. Below is a list of standard dining table sizes for each shape.
Square Tables
An ideal table for a small meal, square tables usually accommodate 4 people and are made to be 36″ to 44″ wide. Square tables are also commonly made to counter height, which ranges from 34″ to 36″ high. Square tables have a much taller scale than standard dining tables.
Rectangular Tables
This is the most typical and used type of table. Rectangular tables are typically 36″ to 40″ wide. If you want to seat four people, look for a table that is about 48″ long; if you want to seat four to six people, look for a table no less than 60″ long. If you want to seat six to eight people, look for a table that is 78″ long or longer. In general, you want to try to allow approximately 24″ of width per person.
Round Tables
The size is very significant when choosing a round table. Their round shape tends to fit in smaller areas and cozy dining spaces quite well, similar to square tables. For four dining seats, a table with a diameter between 36″ and 44″ would be a great option. For four to six dining seats, a table with a diameter between 44″ and 54″ would be acceptable. And for six to eight people, using a table with a diameter of 54″ or larger would be the best case scenario. Round tables are very useful – they can fulfill many different constituencies if a meal is not taking place. They often act as homework, or paperwork areas!
Standard Dining Height Table
Dining tables typically range between 28” and 30” tall. This generally caters to the distance a person would like to sit, allowing their feet to stay flat on the floor. This is considered standard height dining and for everyday presumed dining and formal dining.
The following options are additional height choices for tables:
Tables that are counter-height (approximately 36″): These tables are the same overall height as your kitchen island or counter, so they work great as informal dining or multipurpose tables.
Tables that are bar height (are usually 42″): These types of tables are also known as pub or gathering tables, and they are great for social events or informal entertaining. The height works well for transitioning between standing and then sitting for meals.
Tip: Don’t forget to hang your light fixtures at the right height! For spaces with 8-foot ceilings, hang your chandeliers or pendant lights 30 to 36 inches from the tabletop!
Table Size
The overall size of your table—square, rectangular or oval—will play a part in determining how many people may be accommodated at the table. A small table size 36″–44″ has one chair per side. Larger tables starting at 102″–108″ can often accommodate 3 or 4 chairs along each long side depending again on how small or large the chairs are and how they are shaped.
Will you occasionally need to serve a few more people? A table with extending leaves can be ideal for you. Extension leaves allow you to lengthen your table for those occasions when you may need to, like holiday meals or dinner parties. There are many shapes that come with leaves.
Table Depth (Also Known as Width)
The width of a table (the depth of its table) is the distance across the shorter side of the table. The width is important to consider because it also impacts how many chairs you can fit at each end of the table. For instance, a table with a width of 38″ – 40″ can generally accommodate one person at each end, while a 48″ wide table allows you to easily accommodate two seats each side.
What to Consider When Choosing a Table
The best place to begin is by figuring out the standard measurements! However, after you have the general information, you can use the following to help you make the best choice for you:
Room Size
Initially, measure your dining area: as a common sense guideline and rule of thumb for experienced interior designers like Kelson, when chairs are pushed in allow a distance of between 30″ and 36″ around the table. This will promote ease of movement throughout the room and avoid arbitrary contact with furniture.
Seating Requirements
The first thing you need to consider is how many of those people will typically be seated around the table. If you enjoy frequently entertaining, you will likely want to consider larger tables or tables with leaves (expandable). For example, a 48″ round table with an 18″ leaf expands to either an oval or round 66″, meaning that you will be able to seat up to six persons comfortably. If you are using a 54 ” round table, you can use the leaf to extend it to a 72″ table and seat up to eight persons. Please ensure you check to see that your space can accommodate the new size.
The size and style of table you decide on will enhance your dining room or eat-in kitchen experience. Put some good food in there, some fresh flowers, friendly faces, and you are done.
Coffee Table Sizes
A coffee table can exist in many different styles and shapes, with options such as hexagon, oval, square, rectangle and round. There are no standard sizes, but in general, remember that a coffee table should sit 1″ to 2″ lower than the seat cushions of your couch. Most times, this falls in the range of from 15″ to 20″.
In regards to length, select approximately half the length of your couch. Use the design of your room and available space to guide you on depth, or just trust your instincts. If it looks balanced with your couch and other decor, it is.
Which Table is Right for You?
Whether you are redecorating your dining room or your living room, a quality table can change the feel of your home. If you need help finding just the right table, the design team at George Furniture is here to help! Come visit one of our stores or come visit our Huada showroom in Foshan, China, to find your options.
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