Updated : December 19, 2024
Published : November 27, 2024
Guides

If you live in a small apartment, you probably don’t have a separate dining room or any extra space for a full dining table. And honestly, that’s fine. A dining table isn’t something you need to feel at home.

You can sip your coffee on the couch or eat at the kitchen counter — no problem. You can even invite friends over for a movie night, share pizza, and still have a great time. But if you love hosting big dinners and celebratory meals, that’s when things get a little trickier.

Sometimes, you want that classic dining experience where everyone gathers around one big table, without having to lean over the plates awkwardly. The good news is, it’s totally possible to make that happen with an extendable dining table, even in the smallest of spaces.

When in its compact form, an extendable table looks like just another side table or console, blending in with your living room furniture without taking up much space at all. But in an instant, with just a quick slide or pull, that small table transforms into something big enough to host a full-fledged dinner party.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of extendable dining tables available, the best features to look for, and how to choose one that fits your space.

How an Extendable Dining Table Can Boost Your Social Life

“There was an art of eating, and an art of living that was associated with a dining table that was huge.” – Alice Benjamin, Interior Designer.

Studies show that eating together as a family plays a huge role in building strong relationships. But in today’s world, where we’re constantly distracted by phones, screens, and busy schedules, it’s easy to forget what matters most: real, face-to-face connection.

That’s where the dining table comes in. It’s the place where you gather, slow down, and actually connect without distractions. Whether it’s sharing a meal after a long day, celebrating a birthday, or simply catching up, the dining table makes space for everyone to be present and engaged.

And an extendable dining table takes this experience to the next level. Since you’re not limited by the size of your table, you can easily extend it to make room for more people. This helps take the stress away from your dinner when your distant uncle arrives unannounced.

Here’s how you can make the most of your extendable dining table:

Set it up for a fun board game night with snacks.

Host a potluck and enjoy an array of different dishes.

Create a cosy movie night with drinks.

Use it for arts and crafts, puzzles, or DIY projects.

Organise a wine, cheese, or dessert-tasting evening.

Lay out a buffet-style spread for Sunday brunch.

Turn it into a homework station for the kids.

Set up a casual cocktail hour with drinks and appetisers.

Extending Dining Table Types

Older versions of extendable tables were a nightmare to pull out, always needing two people and half the room to set up. Now, extendable tables are sleek, stylish, and have clever mechanisms that make them super easy to use. Here’s a quick look at the different styles of extendable dining tables.

Traditional Centre Leaves

The most common extension type is a centre leaf, which fits right into the middle of the table. These leaves are usually 12 to 18 inches wide and give you extra seating by adding another row of space. They’re typically a solid piece with an apron underneath, so the table looks complete when the leaf is in place.

When it’s not in use, the leaf is stored separately, often under a bed or on a shelf. It’s best to keep it flat to prevent any warping over time.

Butterfly Extension

A popular option for extendable tables is the butterfly leaf. Unlike traditional leaves that you have to store separately, the butterfly leaf folds in half and neatly hides under the tabletop. When you need extra seating, you simply unfold it, and the table expands instantly, giving you room for more guests.

This design has a hidden compartment below the table surface where the leaf is kept, making it convenient for smaller spaces. The only downside is that when the leaf is extended, there’s a visible seam in the middle of the table. But for the convenience and space-saving design, it’s a small trade-off to be had.

Breadboard Leaves

Breadboard leaves are extensions that attach to the ends of the table, instead of the middle like traditional leaves. Such tables come with two separate extensions. The leaves are secured using rods or slides that extend from the table ends, with a latch or clip to hold them in place.

When the breadboard leaves are not in use, the table looks seamless, as there are no visible gaps or seams on the surface. Some tables even combine this design with a butterfly mechanism, where the leaves are hidden underneath and can be pulled out easily, often with wheels for smooth extension. This setup provides a clean, polished look when the table is compact and plenty of space when it’s expanded.

Rectangular or Round Extendable Dining Table?

Rectangular tables are a classic choice because they work well in longer rooms and offer more layout options. You can have one side for adults, the other side for kids, or create space for a buffet spread down the middle. The extra length gives you more options to adapt the table for different occasions, whether it’s a casual meal or a bigger dinner party.

Alternatively, round tables are great for smaller dining areas because they fit neatly into corners and don’t have sharp edges that can crowd the space. They also create a more intimate setting since everyone is facing each other.

If you’re using multiple extension leaves on a round table, you might need a support leg to keep it steady. However, the extension leaves usually need to be stored elsewhere, so you’ll need to find space for them.

Ultimately, whether you should choose a rectangular or round extendable table depends on the space you need to fill and the events you plan to host. Round offers a sleek, calmer design that flows. Rectangular allows you to easily stow the table away in the corner without any dead space.

How Big of an Extension Do You Need?

When choosing the size of your extendable dining table, start by measuring your dining room space. You’ll need at least 60cm (about 2 feet) behind each chair so people can move around easily.

Next, consider how large your table will extend to and what size works best for everyday use.

Furl offers clever tables like the Golia, which transforms from a console to a full dining table (43cm to 293cm) in just 10 seconds and seats up to 12. We also have the Horizon table, which works as both a coffee table and dining table, with hidden storage for extra convenience.

Our console tables are designed to fold away, saving space while offering room for keys, candles, or decor when needed.

Final Words

A dining table that extends gives you the freedom to make the most of any occasion and create memorable moments with the people you care about most. With the right design, your table can be a hub for connection, celebration, and shared experiences that will last a lifetime.