Choosing the right dining table for our home is one of the most important interior decisions we can make. It's not just a place to eat, it's where we gather as a family, host friends, work from home, help the kids with homework, or simply enjoy a quiet cup of tea. At eFurn, we understand how central this piece of furniture is to daily life, so we've put together some tips to help you choose the perfect dining table that suits your lifestyle, space, and taste.

Consider the Space

Firstly, we need to think practically. The size and shape of the room should guide our decision. A large, open-plan dining room may accommodate a grand rectangular or oval table with room for eight or more. A smaller kitchen diner, on the other hand, might benefit more from a round or square table to maximise space and encourage a cosy atmosphere.

Let's not forget about clearance space, we should allow at least 90cm between the table and any walls or furniture around it. This ensures that everyone can move comfortably around the table without squeezing through tight gaps.

Match the Table to Your Lifestyle

How we use our dining space should play a big role in what kind of table we choose. If we love to host dinner parties or have a big family, we might need a table that expands, extending tables are perfect for adding extra seating when guests arrive without taking up unnecessary space day-to-day.

For those of us who live in smaller homes or flats, a compact table or one with fold-down leaves could be more practical. Some dining tables even come with storage solutions built in, which can be a real lifesaver in compact spaces.

Choose the Right Shape

Each table shape brings something different to the room. Rectangular tables are traditional and versatile, making them a go-to choice for most households. Round and oval tables, however, are great for creating a more intimate and inclusive dining experience, as everyone can see and speak to each other easily.

If we have a square room, a square table can offer a pleasing sense of symmetry. However, they tend to seat fewer people, so they're best suited to households of two to four.

Think About Materials and Finishes

When it comes to materials, it's important to strike the right balance between style and practicality. Solid wood tables, like oak or walnut, are timeless and durable, developing character over the years. They're a great choice if we're after something long-lasting and traditional.

Glass tables can help make a room feel bigger and brighter, thanks to their reflective surface. They're perfect for more modern interiors, but they do require regular cleaning to stay smudge-free. Metal and concrete finishes, on the other hand, offer a more industrial feel and are generally very hardwearing.

It's also worth thinking about how the table finish will stand up to everyday use. Families with young children might prefer a surface that can withstand spills, knocks and general wear and tear without showing too much damage.

Don't Forget the Chairs

It's easy to focus on the table and overlook the chairs, but they're just as important. Ideally, we should test the height of the table and chairs together to ensure a comfortable dining experience. There should be around 30cm of space between the seat of the chair and the underside of the table.

Matching dining sets are a safe and stylish option, but mixing and matching chairs can create a more eclectic and personalised look. We should also consider upholstered chairs for added comfort, especially if we often linger around the table for hours during meals or games nights.

Style It Your Way

The dining table is the focal point of the room, so it should reflect our personal style. Whether we prefer rustic farmhouse charm, sleek Scandinavian minimalism, or something bold and contemporary, there's a table out there to suit us.

We can style the table with seasonal centrepieces, candles, or a runner to bring warmth and interest to the room. It's worth thinking about how it complements the rest of our décor, from flooring to lighting to surrounding furniture.

Quality Over Quantity

Finally, a dining table is a long-term investment. We don't want to be replacing it every couple of years, so it's worth spending a little more to get something that's well made and built to last. At eFurn, we pride ourselves on offering a carefully curated range of dining tables that combine quality, style and practicality, whatever our budget or space.