We don't want to make a meal out of sitting comfortably
but this article on choosing a dining table might entertain you
A romantic dinner for two, a family get-together,
entertaining the boss or a game of cards with the boys on Friday night -
it's all part of the life of a dining table
A dining table has been the focal point for the family as it sits
down to eat together since time immemorial. It is also the place where
guests are invited to join in and the location for weighty family
discussions and decisions. As such, it is one of the most important
pieces of furniture that is ever purchased and, indeed, many a dining
table is passed from one generation to the next. It is a piece of
furniture which has the distinction of having its own history.
Replacing a dining table, is, therefore, a major decision and the
options will need to be considered carefully before buying a new one.
Here are the key factors which should be thought through before
purchasing a dining table.
Size of room
Obviously there is no point in buying a table which dominates the room
in which it sits. People need to be able to circulate around the table,
get food to the table and sit in relative comfort.
Number of people
This will probably result in two different numbers - the number of
family members and the number of family members plus anticipated guests.
If the two are very different, consider a table with a folding-out leaf
or leaves or even a
second, occasional dining table.
Style of room
Your dining table needs to complement the other furniture and the room's
finishings. If the room has antiques and paintings (for example) then a
traditional oak, maple or walnut table or maybe a refectory table would
be most appropriate. If, on the other hand, the style is modern, then
materials such as chrome, stainless steel and glass might be more
fitting.
Appearance of dining table
Are you looking for a dining table which invites people to just sit down
at (such as a refectory table) or is this for more formal use?
Shape of the dining table
Rectangular dining tables are more traditional but they also have sharp
corners which can be dangerous. Round tables do not use space as well
but they are safer and are more 'sociable'. An oval table can combine
the best of both worlds but sitting at the curved ends can be seen as
drawing the short straw!
The primary function of the dining table
How do you see the table being used? Will it be primarily for family
dining, entertaining or important discussions?
Mobility
Will you need to push the dining table out of the way or will it be a
permanent fixture. Castors make the table unsteady but there are locking
mechanisms to hold it in place.
Features
Would you find features like rotating centres, backgammon or chess
inlays, a heatproof or scratchproof surface in any way beneficial?
Special needs
Will anyone be using the table who is disabled? Will it need to
accommodate a wheelchair between the legs of the dining table or have it
fit in the space around the table?
Budget
Obviously the budget is critical. If the funds are tight, consider
buying a second-hand or slightly damaged dining table. Some of these are
in excellent condition and can be purchased for a fraction of the price
of a new dining table.
There - 10 factors to consider when choosing your new dining table.
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