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Often considered the heart of a home, dining tables can spark conversations, bring people together, create memories, and serve as a place to eat, work, study, and engage in other activities. As such, picking the right table (or any piece of furniture) is important because you will be living with that piece for some time – and ideally, you’d love your table or at least feel it serves you well.
Additionally, whether the table is going in a formal dining space or casual kitchen area will help determine your aesthetic and material choices. Because dining tables come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, we've created this guide to break down different features and types of dining tables, as well as what households they might suit best. Read on for tips on choosing a dining table that accommodates your design and lifestyle needs, as well as product recommendations from Copenhagen’s collection.
Extendable dining tables are predisposed to supporting a variety of seating needs and functionalities. You can easily increase the length of the tabletop to accommodate extra guests or create a larger work surface, with the help of leaves that are cleverly concealed beneath the tabletop.
We recommend extendable dining tables for homes that have limited space or frequently host guests. They’re a great option for those who need the flexibility to accommodate larger groups on holidays or special occasions. The extra size may only be needed a few times – but it’ll be appreciated when the time comes.
Copenhagen’s Bella Clara Dining Table, for example, extends from 77” to 98” with a self-storing extension leaf whose textured walnut surface creates a striking contrast to the high-gloss grey lacquer on the rest of the tabletop. Rectangular extendable tables like Bella Clara work well in most spaces because of their ability to adapt to an assortment of gatherings. However, round tables are worth considering if your goal is to encourage more conversation and create a cozier ambiance. For example, the Jones Dining Table has a smaller circular tabletop and features an innovative spring mechanism that quickly unfolds leaves concealed in the base, creating seating space for additional guests as well as ample leg room.
Whichever dining table you choose, below are some general size guidelines to follow for seating capacity:
To further narrow down your dining table choices, we suggest considering which type of tabletop would suit you best. This is a matter of balancing your durability needs with your preferred design style. Tabletops are now available in a wide range of natural and crafted materials, from wood with its long lifespan and the affordability of veneer, to the stylishness of a high-gloss finish and the elegant lightness of glass.
What the table is made of is just as important as its size and shape. A glass table will often make a small space feel more open, but if you have young children or cats, the upkeep on a glass table could be too much trouble. A wood or ceramic table might be a better fit for a family with small children. Both wood and ceramic offer the space a sense of elegance and an organic feel, but will still need to be maintained regularly to keep them looking their best.
The Hudson Dining Table, part of our Essentials Collection, features a traditional walnut veneer tabletop and a clean, timeless silhouette. Durable and easy to maintain, a table like this is ideal for a family-friendly household that still seeks to maintain a sleek style.
For a dining space that isn’t afraid to embrace a bold, contemporary look, the Bella Centro Dining Table sports high-gloss grey veneer with a visually striking geometric base. We especially recommend this table for a semi-formal to formal dining space because of its elegant presentation.
For those wanting something entirely fresh, an Italian-made table with a glass top and an artistically wrought base like the Papel embodies a captivating blend of strength and delicacy.
Indeed, tables with artistic bases can bring a unique and visually appealing element to a dining space. They serve as a focal point and add personality to the room. An artistic base can be a sculptural work of art and elevate the overall aesthetic of the dining space, creating a more visually sophisticated environment. What’s more, tables with artistic bases can be a conversation starter and add a sense of creativity to the dining experience.
A dining table’s base is largely a design choice, as most are already made to provide adequate leg space and hold up over time. However, do also keep in mind how your dining chairs hide or mask the base from view at various angles if the top is solid.
For homes that prefer a more traditional look, dining tables with pedestal, trestle, or simple four-legged bases are a perfect choice due to their sturdiness and lasting charm. With its classic trestle base, the Heidi Dining Table has a no-fuss look that is nonetheless timeless. If you prefer something more contemporary, bases that use artistic, industrial, or sculptural elements will likely capture your interest. These will tend to stand out, whether it’s the distinctive lines of the Gea‘s origami-inspired base, the breathtaking craftmanship of the Atrium in quilted glass, or the crisp, hourglass-like shape of the Clessidra in walnut and ceramic.
To further maximize the functionality of your dining space, look out for tables that include something unique or distinctive. Tables with specialized adjustments or other intuitive features can more easily support a variety of activities and shake up your dining dynamic.
For example, the Karsten High-Rise Dining Table features an electric adjustment mechanism that allows you to raise its height from 25” to 43”, creating one surface for a variety of activities. A true multi-tasker, Karsten also comes with extension leaves that let it accommodate not only a large gathering, but also a sizable amount of paperwork, or an ambitious craft project. Being able to raise or lower the table allows it to function at bar or counter height for dining but also act as a tall buffet in a party situation or even as a sit/stand desk for work or creative activities.
Just as efficient is the Dansk Multifunction Table; its hidden storage space, wheeled base, and reversible stainless-steel plate can accommodate quickly changing tasks and give you more space in a smaller home.
For a dining space that values simplicity but still wants to entertain, don’t underestimate the power and elegance of a built-in lazy Susan. Entertain multiple guests with a plethora of condiments, entrees, or beverages on this rotating tray placed in the center of your table. We love the Skorpio Round Dining Table for its stunning ceramic marble lazy Susan that contrasts with the rich wood of the rest of the tabletop.
Whether you’re furnishing your first dining room or looking to freshen up your current one, starting with the right dining table will set the tone for the rest of your space. A well-chosen table will meet your specific size and entertainment needs so that you can linger at the table and enjoy more quality time together. Copenhagen offers a wide selection of dining tables to meet every preference and fit every style. For product and design assistance, call or visit your local store.