Don't let your dining table become the worst piece of furniture in your house
Choosing and purchasing furniture for your lovely home, whether it's a sofa, dining table, or any other piece, is undeniably enjoyable and exciting. Especially if you're a first-time homeowner with the freedom to fill your private space with whatever furniture you want.
However, before you give your home that Pinterest-inspired look or buy something similar to what you've seen online or in your favourite home decor magazine, keep in mind that dining table shopping can be stressful and overwhelming. Why is the dining table important? It's because your dining table is likely the next commitment (and investment) you'll have to make after purchasing your home because you'll be using the items for a long time, so it's a big deal.
If you don't want to be stuck with a dining table that doesn't fit the room or any of your spaces, avoid the top five common buying mistakes. After all, we all want to end up with great pieces that not only enhance the beauty of our homes but also make our lives more comfortable.
Mistake 1: Not considering your dining needs and wants
The dining table is the gathering place in many homes—the place where we literally and metaphorically come together during busy days, celebrations, hosting, and more. Choosing the stage on which all of this will take place should be at the top of your priority list.
To avoid this mistake, figure out how much space your dining table will take up. Is it for fancy dinner parties and festivities, or will it be used for homework, crafts, and the majority of daily meals? For regular usage, a low-maintenance but elegant table may be the ideal option.
Take into account also your family's requirements. A stone table that absorbs stains may not be the ideal choice if you have little children. Select a dining table that is both practical and attractive.
You should also consider your way of life. Consider how you use the table in your everyday life. A tiny table for four, for example, may not be appropriate if you're entertaining and want to prepare a dinner party. The dining table should be improved without obstructing the way of living.
Another thing to think about is your current living situation. A good rule of thumb is to purchase for the house you currently own. Even if you intend to purchase a larger home in the future, there is no point in purchasing an oversized glass table if it will not fit in your current space. Instead, select a dining table that meets your needs right now.
Whatever you pick, make sure there's enough room around the table for people to move, sit, and stand comfortably.
Mistake 2: Not taking into account the appropriate dining table material
To avoid this mistake, deciding which material is best for you, how and when it is used is critical.
The most common dining table material is wood. Dining table wood is warm and comfortable for everyday use, and they don't show regular wear and fingerprints easily. Wood is a classic, durable, and easy-to-repair material that looks beautiful and meets most needs. While solid wood is the most expensive option, there are a few less expensive options, such as teak and acacia. Although wood wears and expands and contracts when exposed to heat, it is a low-maintenance material. That is why a wood dining table will last a lifetime.
If you want the look of wood without the cost, wood veneer is a great option. This material is composed of a thin layer of solid wood or printed material adhered to plywood. A high-quality veneer dining table is entirely made of this material, so make sure that veneer has been used underneath the table as well. Similarly, dining table marble is durable without sacrificing style.
Dining table marble tops are ideal for small spaces because they create a sense of openness. Glass tabletops are reasonably priced and come in a variety of colours, including clear, tinted, and frosted. They are not affected by moisture, but they are easily chipped and scratched. They also show every fingerprint, so they may not be the best choice if you have young children. If you avoid chips and scratches and are willing to wipe it down frequently, a glass dining table can last for decades.
Metal tables are contemporary, long-lasting, and less expensive than many other materials. Metal dining tables can withstand heavy use if they are made of stainless steel, zinc, brass, or painted versions of these materials. However, because of their gleaming finish, they show every fingerprint and can be difficult to clean.
If you don't mind a little more upkeep for something that will be used less frequently, sleek modern materials like glass and MDF may be for you.
Mistake 3: Choosing the wrong dining table for your style
The dining table can be as traditional or modern as you want it to be, and it might even spark a discussion. This could be the most difficult phase after you've determined on the size and materials you'll need. A dining table, when matched with the appropriate seats, should properly express your way of life.
Scandinavian design is all about simplicity with a Nordic twist. It is uncluttered but warm, combining minimalism and functionality. If you have a Scandi interior design style, your dining table should match! Look for a simple and modern, clean-lined, solid wood table.
The interior design style of the Hamptons is coastal, relaxed, and elegant. It necessitates oversized furniture with a beachy feel. This style is best complemented by a beautiful wood table with classic lines and carved legs.
The industrial interior design style is contemporary, raw, and rustic. An edgy aesthetic is created by brick walls, steel beams, distressed timbers, and raw concrete. If this is your style, look for a wood or metal dining table in a neutral black, brown, grey, or white.
The eclectic interior design style incorporates furniture from various styles and eras. Typically, a consistent colour, pattern, or texture is used throughout. The best thing about this style is that it can work with any dining table; just make sure it has personality!
The minimalist interior design style is straightforward but sophisticated. The most important factors are quality and functionality. If this is your style, look for a dining table with clean lines and a neutral colour.
Mistake 4: Choosing the wrong dining table shape
To avoid this mistake, the shape of your dining table should be determined by your practical needs as well as the size of your room. Dining tables are typically rectangular, square, round, or oval in shape.
The most common type of table is a rectangle. This shape is available in a variety of styles, sizes, and extendable options. A rectangular dining table works well in most spaces, but it works especially well in long or narrow rooms.
Remember that width is just as important as length when it comes to selecting the right one. The larger the table, the more food it can accommodate, and thus the better it is for entertaining.
If your room is square, a square table is a good choice. Bringing people closer together, a square dining table fosters more intimate dining experiences. However, keep in mind that the larger the square table, the more difficult it will be to reach the food. An extensible square table may be the ideal option if you need to seat more than 8 people. As a result, you get the best of both worlds.
For small rooms, a round or oval table is suitable. This form takes up less room while still providing more surface area for the food. Obviously, the larger the countertop, the more people and food it can hold comfortably. Round or oval tables are good for conversations and parties since they bring people together.
Mistake 5: Choosing the wrong dining chairs
To avoid this mistake, keep in mind that the height of the chair should match the height of the table. A foot of space is recommended between the lower edge of the table, or apron, and the top of the chair for adequate leg room at a comfortable table height.
Knowing the length of the table will also help you choose chairs that fit and leave enough space between them so that they don't collide. Keep in mind that the table legs may affect the length of the table as well as the space for chairs to be tucked in. Consider the height of the armrests to see if they can be pushed under the table.
Dining chairs are available in a variety of materials such as wood, leather, upholstered, metal, or woven, that can complement your dining table, depending on your aesthetic preferences and how much you want to match or contrast the styles.
Conclusion
One of the most important pieces of furniture in your home is the dining table. It is more than just a place to eat; it also serves as the foundation for memorable meals and meaningful gatherings.
We hope this guide has been helpful in locating the ideal match for your dining table requirements. Finally, the dimensions and shape of the dining table that will work within your given space will be heavily influenced by the shape and dimensions of the room. If you plan carefully, you will have a beautiful and functional dining room table to host and delight your guests for many years to come.
