Choosing a dining table isn’t always as simple as it seems. It’s one of the most important pieces in the room and, once it’s in place, it influences the layout and everything around it.
It’s not only important to consider its aesthetics, but also its materials. A handcrafted solid wood dining table is designed to last and, over the years, develops a finish that makes it even more special.
Below, we explain how to calculate the ideal dining table dimensions for your space, which shape to choose—round, rectangular, or oval—and which materials ensure long-term durability. Take note!
Dining table dimensions: how to calculate the exact size
Before choosing a dining table, the first thing to do is determine how much space you actually have. With a tape measure and a few simple calculations, you can work out the maximum size and how many people can sit comfortably around it.
STEP 1: MEASURE THE AVAILABLE SPACE
Write down the width and length of the area designated for the dining space. Then, allow around 90 cm of free space around the table so you can pull out the chairs and move around comfortably. The space remaining after allowing for these circulation areas will give you an approximate maximum table size.
STEP 2: CALCULATE THE SIZE BASED ON THE NUMBER OF DINERS
As a general guideline, each person needs around 60 cm of table space. So, a 120 cm table can accommodate four people, a 180 cm table six, and a 240 cm table eight.
These measurements are only a guide and may vary depending on the type of chair, the width of the table, and the level of comfort you want. For rectangular tables, for example, around 60 cm per person is a commonly used reference.
STEP 3: CHECK THE HEIGHT
The standard height for a dining table is around 75 cm. For it to be comfortable, you should also check the distance between the chair seat and the tabletop. As a general reference, a gap of up to around 30 cm usually works well.
For this reason, before buying a table, always check that it is compatible with the chairs you already have or the ones you plan to use.
A SIMPLE TRICK BEFORE BUYING
A very practical way to check whether the dimensions are actually right is to mark out the size of the table on the floor using masking tape. Then, place the chairs around it and check how much space you have to sit down, get up and move around. It’s a very simple test, but it can prevent you from choosing a table that seemed to fit perfectly on paper but turns out to be too large in reality.
The first step: how to measure your living room before choosing a sofa
The shape of the table should work in harmony with the dining space. Round or square tables work particularly well in more square-shaped rooms, while rectangular and oval tables are better suited to elongated spaces.
Round tables are a good option when you want to make the most of the central area without making it difficult to move around. Since they have no corners, they make circulation easier and allow all diners to face towards the center. A large round dining table can also become the focal point of the room.
Rectangular tables are more common in elongated dining rooms and make better use of a long wall. They also offer greater seating capacity, making them practical for families or those who regularly entertain guests.
Oval tables, on the other hand, combine the capacity of a rectangular table with softer lines. Their rounded edges make it easier to move around them and they can work particularly well when you want a statement piece that still feels visually lighter.
Ultimately, the shape shouldn’t be chosen solely for aesthetic reasons. Taking into account the proportions of the space and the number of people who will use the table will result in a much more balanced layout.
Large round dining table
A round dining table is a particularly interesting option for the dining room. Since there is no head of the table, everyone is equally positioned and conversation feels more natural. It also works especially well in square-shaped rooms.
From around 120–130 cm in diameter, it’s advisable to have at least 300 × 300 cm of space to place the chairs and move comfortably around the table. If the dining area is smaller, a 90–100 cm table may be a better-proportioned alternative.
With larger round tables, it’s also important to consider the base to ensure everyone is comfortable. A table with a central pedestal leaves more legroom and makes it easier to access the tabletop, such as the Taj Mahal quartzite round dining table designed by Juan Bengoa.
Our round Taj Mahal quartzite dining table designed by Juan Bengoa
Rectangular dining tables
The rectangular table is the most common and one of the most versatile options. It works particularly well in elongated dining rooms and allows you to seat more people without taking up more space than necessary.
When the dining area shares space with the living room, it’s important to pay attention to proportions. Ideally, the table should not exceed two-thirds of the total length of the room, and there should be at least 90 cm of space between the table and the nearest wall so that chairs can be moved comfortably. If space is more limited, an extendable table can be a good solution. It allows you to keep a more compact size for everyday use and extend it when you need more space.
For solid wood rectangular tables, sizes between 160 and 200 cm work well for six to eight people. From 220 cm onwards, it’s preferable to have a larger dining area so that the table remains well proportioned within the room.
Oval dining table
The oval table combines some of the advantages of rectangular and round tables. It makes good use of the length of elongated dining rooms, while its curved lines make it easier to move around and give the overall space a lighter visual feel.
In our collection of handcrafted dining tables, you’ll find round, rectangular, and oval models to suit different spaces and styles.
Dining table materials: durability, character, and maintenance
The material is one of the most important decisions when choosing a dining table. It not only influences its appearance, but also its durability, maintenance requirements, and how it ages over time.
Solid wood is one of the materials most closely associated with handcrafted furniture. Oak, walnut, ash, and pine are durable and have a unique appearance. Each piece features its own distinctive grain and tones.
A solid wood table can also last for many years with the right care. Depending on the finish, it may require periodic applications of oil or varnish. One of its great advantages is that it can be restored if marks or minor imperfections appear over time.
Wood veneer, on the other hand, is an intermediate option between solid wood and fiberboard. If well made and supported by a high-quality base, it can offer very good results. Before buying, it’s worth checking the thickness of the veneer and the material used underneath.
Ceramic and porcelain stand out for their resistance to heat, stains, and scratches, as well as being easy to maintain on a day-to-day basis. They are a practical option for busy dining areas, although a strong impact on the edges can cause damage that is difficult to repair. Marble and other natural stones provide a highly distinctive and personal finish, as each piece has its own unique veining and variations. Some types of stone require periodic sealing to protect them from stains and, due to their weight, need a suitable supporting structure.
Tempered glass, meanwhile, helps make the dining area feel visually lighter and can work particularly well in small or contemporary spaces. It is easy to clean, although fingerprints and small scratches are more visible than on other materials.
At Canica Collections, we believe in handcrafted design and materials that make every piece unique. We particularly love the lacquered burgundy wooden table designed by Galán Sobrini Arquitectos and the round quartzite dining table designed by De la Villa Studio. Both stand out for their materials and highly original designs.
Extendable or fixed dining table: when to choose each option
An extendable table is a good solution when you need a table for everyday use but also want additional space when you have guests. It is particularly practical in smaller dining areas within the living room. It’s also a good option if you regularly entertain guests throughout the year but don’t want to have a large table taking up space every day. A 140 cm table that can be extended to 200 cm allows you to maintain a comfortable size for everyday use while providing additional surface area when needed.
If you ultimately choose a handcrafted extendable table, it’s important to pay attention to the mechanism. It should be sturdy and extend smoothly, while the additional leaves should match the tone and grain of the tabletop so that the table maintains a consistent appearance when extended.
The table base: legs or pedestal
The table base is a detail that often goes unnoticed, but it influences both comfort and the overall aesthetics. Choosing the right base can change how the chairs are positioned and how much legroom is available.
Four-legged tables offer stability and plenty of design possibilities. However, when the legs are positioned at the corners, they can reduce legroom and make it more difficult to position certain chairs, especially with smaller tables.
A central pedestal is particularly practical for larger round tables. Since there are no legs at the corners, it provides more legroom, makes it easier for diners to sit down and get up, and allows you to make better use of the tabletop. X-shaped or U-shaped bases are another option for rectangular tables. They provide a more contemporary look while maintaining a stable structure without relying on four traditional legs. A great example that we love is the Zigzag concrete dining table designed by MIL Studios.
Zigzag concrete dining table designed by MIL Studios
FAQ about choosing a dining table
What are the ideal dining table dimensions for 6 people?
As a general guideline, a rectangular table around 180 cm long can comfortably seat six people. You should also consider the width of the tabletop and leave enough space around the table to move the chairs and circulate comfortably.
Is a rectangular or round dining table better?
It depends on the shape and size of the dining room. Rectangular tables work particularly well in elongated spaces, while round tables make better use of square dining areas and make it easier to move around the table.
What is the best material for a dining table if you have children?
Ceramic and porcelain are practical options thanks to their resistance to stains, heat, and scratches. Solid wood can also work very well, especially if you’re looking for a durable material that can be maintained and restored over time.
What is the difference between a solid wood table and a wood veneer table?
Solid wood tables are made entirely from wood and allow the surface to be restored if it becomes worn over time. Wood veneer tables use a layer of real wood over another material, making them generally lighter and more affordable, although they offer fewer restoration options.