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In today's digital age, it’s easy to do pretty much anything with a few clicks. You can sit in your living room and join a Zoom meeting, catch up with friends, book a doctor's appointment, or attend a virtual class. Even food shopping is just a few taps away. But while living digitally is super convenient, it often pulls you away from the people right next to you.
Instant chats and video calls can't match the warmth of being together in person. Sometimes, it feels great to enjoy those offline moments that tech can’t offer — like a leisurely breakfast with family or sharing stories over a quiet weekend lunch. That's why a dedicated dining space is so important. It’s where you slow down and enjoy real moments with family or friends.
That said, your dining area doesn’t have to be extravagant to create these memories. It could be a cosy nook in your kitchen or a small table tucked into a corner of your living room. A proper dining table encourages healthier habits, such as the social interaction you gain instead of being in front of a screen. If you eat together, you’re more likely to prepare balanced dishes instead of grabbing fast food every other day or snacking in front of the TV.
This guide will show you how to choose the right dining room furniture to enhance your dining experience. We'll cover everything from size and style to materials and features.
Find Your Perfect Dining Table
Before investing in a dining table, consider your daily routine and lifestyle. Do you need a table for family dinners or something versatile for crafts and playtime? If there's a chance for spills and creative chaos, pick something sturdy and easy to clean.
Next, look at your space. Is your dining area small and cosy, or do you have an open-concept layout with more room to work with? The shape and size of your room will guide whether you go for a rectangular table or something round that fits snugly in a corner.
Lastly, figure out how many people you'll host daily and if your table should expand for larger gatherings. Once you've thought this through, you can start exploring different types of dining tables to find the right match for your needs and style.
Four Leg vs. Pedestal
A table with four legs gives a clean, classic look. It's versatile and fits well in both big and small spaces. If you want your dining area to feel more open, this is a solid choice.
Pedestal tables, on the other hand, sit on a single base. They make a statement, especially in smaller round or square designs. For larger tables over 100cm, you'd often see double pedestals or trestles giving extra support.
Solid Top vs. Extension
A solid top table offers a seamless surface that's built from one piece of material. It's strong, durable, and gives your dining room a unified feel.
On the other hand, an extension table is your go-to if you need flexibility. Whether you've family visiting or you're hosting a dinner party, you can easily transform the extendable dining table to fit extra people. While you won't get the seamless grain pattern, the practical perks make up for it.
Most extension tables come with butterfly leaves that tuck right into the table. This feature is more common in four-legged designs, though some pedestal tables offer it too.
Wood vs. Glass Top
After picking out your table's base and top, it’s time to decide on the material. Wood is a classic choice for modern dining room furniture. It's easy to care for and has natural marks that add character, like pitch pockets and scratches. Plus, today's protective finishes make it last even longer.
If you're going for durability, hardwoods are your best bet. Unlike softwoods, they offer greater longevity, so you’ll enjoy your table for years.
If you're not fond of the natural wood look and prefer a sleek style, consider a glass top table. It makes your space feel open and is easy to clean. Although it's tough, glass tables can get scratched relatively easily.
Granite and marble dining tables are other choices for a modern home. They look great but do need some extra care and occasional refinishing to maintain their aesthetics.
Shape
When choosing a dining table, the shape you go for should match the size and style of your room. Rectangular tables are practical for narrow and wide spaces. You can push it against the wall for everyday use and pull it out when guests come over. Alternatively, an oval table softens the look and adds a touch of elegance while still offering plenty of room for everyone.
In smaller or square spaces, a round table is a sociable option, letting conversations flow easily as everyone sits at an equal distance. For something different, consider an irregular shape to add character without overcrowding your space.
Furl’s Space-Saving Dining Furniture for Small Homes
Living in a small space shouldn't mean giving up on a cosy dining experience. At Furl, our multi-functional dining tables are crafted to make every meal special, with designs that lift, lower, and fold out effortlessly. Some even have wheels, so you can move them around without a fuss.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner or working from home, Furl tables adjust to your needs, offering convenient dining room storage to keep your area tidy and welcoming.
Our best dining tables for small spaces are available in dozens of wood and finish options to match your decor. When fully extended, they provide ample space to seat up to 12 people, and when not in use, they fold away neatly.
From coffee tables that lift into larger tables to consoles that double as desks, you'll find the perfect piece to make the most of your space. All our tables are hand crafted, plus, our team delivers and assembles everything for you, taking the hassle out of the set-up.
Dining Chair Guide: A Simple Checklist
When you're picking chairs for your dining table, the key is to balance style with comfort. Your chairs don't need to match the table exactly, but they should fit their scale and vibe. Consider the height of your table and choose stylish chairs that are just the right size.
Here's our guide to choosing the best dining room chairs for comfort.
Size
For a comfortable dining experience, the height of your table and chairs should match well. Most dining tables stand between 70 to 80cm tall, with around 75cm being the standard. Meanwhile, dining chairs normally measure 43 to 50cm from the seat to the floor. This means there’s typically an 8 to 14-inch gap between the chair seat and the table's top.
Usually, a distance of 20 to 35cm works well for most people. But remember, this can change based on the thickness of the table's surface. Even the height and posture of the diner can make a difference.
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Seat Height
Try out different chairs with your table to see what feels best. You can also check out furniture stores or notice what works for you at restaurants. A small measuring tape in your bag can help you note down the perfect distance.
When you're measuring, avoid just going from the tabletop to the seat. If there's no apron under the table, measure from the bottom of the tabletop. But if there is an apron, measure from the bottom of the apron to the top of the seat. This way, you're only factoring in all the space where your legs can go.
Don’t forget to consider the type of seat you’re dealing with, too. Upholstered seats compress when you sit — sometimes quite a bit. Get an accurate read by measuring the seat height both empty and while you’re sitting on it. The difference gives you insight into how much the seat compresses, which you can then add to your ideal table-to-seat distance.
Width & Depth
When setting up your dining table and chairs, there's more to consider than just matching heights. The space under the table matters just as much. The chairs need to fit snugly under the table without causing discomfort or damage to the table. If the chairs are too bulky, diners won't be able to slide in properly, which can lead to scratching or awkward seating.
For rectangular or oval tables, check that the chairs at each end can tuck under without hitting the table legs or the base of a pedestal. If you've two or more chairs on each side, ensure there's enough room for them to move without clashing with each other or the table base. Chairs that touch can leave everyone feeling a bit too close for comfort. We’ve all had that awkward moment when your legs are touching someone sitting next to you cause you’re all sat too close.
The same goes for round tables. Aim for at least five cm of space between each chair. This keeps everyone relaxed and gives enough room to move around without knocking elbows and knees.
Arm & Back Heights
If you’re picking dining chairs with arms, keep an eye on the arm height. Make sure they don't hit the bottom of the compact dining table or apron. This way, your chairs stay in good shape, and everyone can sit close enough to enjoy their meal comfortably.
Another thing to watch out for is the height difference between your chairs and table. The backs of your chairs should rise above the table. If the chairs are not at least five cm taller, they can look squatty and a bit off.
Style
Creating a dining space that stands out doesn't have to be complex. When you're mixing tables and chairs, make sure they have something in common. This could be the era they belong to, their colour undertones, or a design detail like the shape of the legs. But try not to go overboard — matching everything can make your dining room feel like a showroom.
Don't be afraid to mix things up. Rules in decorating are more like guidelines. Sometimes, pairing pieces that are wildly different creates an unexpected harmony. So, trust your instincts and have fun with it.
For a square or rectangular table, benches can be a nice alternative to traditional chairs. They're great for kids who like to move about and don't need back support. A bench that fits your table's width can easily slide underneath when it's not needed, saving space. It brings a communal and flexible feel to dining spaces.
What Size Rug Should You Put Under a Dining Table?
A dining rug's job is to help your table stand out while keeping chair legs stable when you pull them out. To get this right, extend the rug 60cm beyond each side of your dining table.
If you have a round table, add 60cm to the diameter. For rectangular tables, add 120cm to both the width and length. With this arrangement, your table sits nicely in the centre, and the chairs glide smoothly.
Here's a quick guide on rug sizes based on your table's shape and size:
| Table Shape | Seats | Rug Size |
|---|---|---|
| Round | 4 | 90 to 110cm in diameter |
| Round | 4-6 | 110 to 135cm in diameter |
| Round | 6-8 | 135cm to 180cm in diameter |
| Rectangular | 4 | 90cm wide x 120cm long |
| Rectangular | 4-6 | 90cm wide x 150cm long |
| Rectangular | 6-8 | 90cm wide x 200cm long |
Also Leave about 30cm between the rug's edge and your walls to keep the room feeling open and airy. If you have young kids or pets, a rug could mean extra cleaning. Consider skipping the rug or opt for a flat pile fabric that's easier to clean.
How to Update a Traditional Dining Room
If you have a traditional dining room and want to make some changes to make it more inviting, focus on mixing elements. A modern dining space is versatile, often combining different functions like dining and reading in a single area.
You don’t need to stick rigidly to one style or match everything perfectly. Experiment with different pieces and find what feels right for you personally. Here are some factors to keep in mind.
Light
The first thing to consider when refreshing a traditional dining room is light. Such spaces can often feel closed-off and dark. Start by choosing light, airy elements to chase away the gloom. A cabinet opens up the room beautifully, making it feel spacious and inviting. A fresh coat of lighter paint on the trim can also work wonders. If there's not enough natural light, add ambient lighting fixtures wherever needed to lift the mood.
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Texture
Texture makes a dining room feel alive. Mixing materials like metal and glass with different wood shades breaks the monotony and adds composition. For instance, dark wooden dining room furniture matched with lighter maple chairs creates a nice contrast that catches the eye.
Start simple with metal details alongside your wood accents. Maybe metallic chair legs or a sleek light fixture. These small additions bring character and warmth to the room without overwhelming it. Textured fabrics on chairs can also add a playful touch.
Explore different textures to find what works best for you. Play around with combinations until your dining room feels just right.
Colour
Colour plays a big role in how we feel in a room. The right shade can make your small dining room furniture feel cosy or open, depending on what you're after.
Blue is a versatile colour for dining areas, complementing both retro and modern styles. Royal blue or classic blue can add vibrant energy to wooden and brass furniture. Similarly, navy blue offers a more formal touch against high gloss tables and chrome details.
Greens bring freshness. Forest green looks calming with light woods and neutral greys, while sage green gives a farm-fresh feel. Pair these greens with a white glass-top table to make your dining set pop.
For a burst of energy, consider orange. Marigold infuses a sunny French farmhouse vibe, whereas burnt orange with wooden furniture radiates warmth.
The type of sunlight your dining room gets also plays a role in how these colours appear throughout the day. Morning light tends to be cooler and crisp. But the evening sun bathes everything in a warm, golden glow. This interplay of light and colour can make your space feel different throughout the day, so keep that in mind when choosing your colour pallet.
Revitalise
Give your dining room a fresh feel without breaking the bank or parting with cherished pieces. If you have a traditional armchair, explore different fabric options for the seat. Opt for bold patterns like leopard or cheetah to create an exciting contrast.
Update your table by adding upholstered chairs at the head or swapping chairs for a bench on one side. Mixing chair textures can give your space a whole new vibe. If your chandelier feels too traditional, consider hanging three at varying heights for an updated aesthetic.
New Elements
If your budget allows, you can bring in new pieces to modernise your dining room. Start by rethinking your rug choices; if your current oriental rug feels a bit too formal, replace it with something neutral or even a bold focal piece.
Next, think about the dining table. A live edge table offers a raw, rustic feel, while a sleek, modern design can add sophistication. Instead of the usual high hutch, try a cabinate or bar cart with a large mirror above for a stylish touch.
For the windows, ditch the long drapes and opt for Roman shades that only cover the windows, which will help open up smaller spaces. A simple tablescape with a mix of vases and natural elements can also keep your dining area fresh and inviting.
Dining Room Cleaning Tips
Before you start cleaning your dining room, clear everything off the table and surfaces. You don’t want to clean around clutter. Begin at the top and work your way down, so crumbs and dust fall to the floor as you go. Start with the ceiling light, then wipe down the walls and baseboards. Leave the floor for last.
Prepare a cleaning solution with hot water and a few drops of dish soap. Use a microfiber cloth to clean the table and chairs, paying attention to crevices using a butter knife wrapped in cloth. For upholstered chairs, vacuum first, then wipe. To remove stubborn stains, try a mix of carbonate of soda and dish soap.
For wooden table water stains, mix equal parts vinegar and olive oil. Next, apply with a microfiber cloth in the direction of the grain. Dust other furniture and decor with a damp cloth to trap dust effectively.
Sweep or vacuum the floor thoroughly, especially the corners and under the table. If you have a rug, vacuum it well and spot-clean as needed. Finish by mopping the floor with your go-to cleaner for a fresh and gleaming dining room.
Final Words
By thoughtfully choosing furniture for your dining room and incorporating a few creative updates, you can create a warm and inviting space for home gatherings. Think about introducing a sleek new table or mixing and matching chairs to add character. Even a simple refresh with colours and textures can make a huge impact. Make your dining room a place where everyone wants to come together.