A great dining table stands the test of time and promises several unforgettable meals and intimate conversations.  

But, what is the key to finding the perfect dining table for your space – one that will last for years to come, won’t break the bank, and will align with your home’s design style? 

Although there are so many factors that determine whether a dining table is the right one for your space, we’ve narrowed it down to these few tips (in no particular order) that will help you make the right purchase! 

#1 Start with a Measuring Tape 

 

One of the very first steps and by far the most important one in the process of buying the perfect dining table is to record accurate measurements of your dining room. All items that will accompany the table in the dining room must be accounted for when measuring the room and final decisions must be made keeping these numbers in mind. This will help you find the right shape and size table. 

Depending on your room’s shape and available space, you’ll know what your options are. When measuring, here are a few basic measurements to make a note of: 

• the dimensions of the room 
• the dimensions of the table 
• the available space between the table and the closest wall 
• the height of the chairs to be used with the table 
• and, the height of the ceiling in the room for light fixtures 

 

#2 Choose the Right Shape and Size 

 

Once you’ve accurately measured your dining room or area, it is safe to proceed and find the perfect dining table that will fit your space. Today dining tables are available in several different shapes with each having its own benefits and limitations. Based on the configuration of your room some tables may or may not be suitable.   

The size of your table will depend on two things – the number of usual guests & the available space. In the image below, we’ve listed a few things to know about each shape. 

#3 Choose the Right Material  

 

From wood to stone, dining tables are available in numerous different materials and coatings! Since each of these materials is unique and has its own benefits and limitations, we thought we’d include a few tips on the material that you should choose.   

It is important to remember that the ideal choice of material for you will depend on the forecasted usage of the dining table, your budget and willingness to maintain it. For example, if you have children in the house or if you’re just as clumsy as a five-year-old, it is probably not the best idea to keep a glass table at home even though they look great are budget friendly.    

In the image below, we’ve listed a few characteristics of some of the materials used in the fabrication of dining tables. Depending on the way you intend to use your table, one or more of these materials may suit your needs. 

  

#4 Choose Timeless 

 

Choosing vibrant colors that stand out can be a disaster when looking for a dining table. Think about it this way – the more vibrant the color, the sooner and more likely it will go out of style. Buying a coral-pink toned table may not only cost you a fortune but also leave you with an out-of-trend piece a few months later. Thus, we recommend sticking to timeless designs and colors – natural browns and neutral colors accented with metal or just plain.  

If you’re looking to add a touch of color to your dining room, paint your walls! This is a great way to elevate your dining experience. Choose a color that you like, paint your dining room wall(s) with it and perhaps add a few décor items to take away from the wall color if it is too bright. 

#5 A Table that Stands the Test of Time 

 

If you’re trying to save a few dollars by cutting on extra costs, a new dining table is probably not the best thing for you to invest in right now. We strongly recommend spending those few extra dollars on buying a premium quality dining table made from materials that are proven to stand the test of time. For example, although tables made from veneers and fiberboards cost significantly lesser than solid wood tables, they’re also not as long-lasting as solid wood tables.   

In addition to their lack of durability, synthetic materials are also visually unattractive due to the absence of natural grains and texture that is commonly seen on organic materials like wood and stone. Our recommendation is simple – spend that extra dollar (or wait until you can) and get a table that will last you for years! 

Now that you have an idea of what might fit your needs, go check out the Mercana Marketplace for a massive collection of dining tables! 

That’s all we have for you in this buyer’s guide. If you think we missed out an important point or if you have questions for us, leave a comment below and lets us know!