Kitchen and Dining Tables
How to Measure
Before purchasing a kitchen or dining table, it’s important to take measurements. Here are a few design rules to keep in mind:
- Measure the length and width of your room. Consider other pieces of furniture that are in the room, including buffets, sideboards, bakers racks, etc.
- After measuring, ensure that you’ll have at least 3 feet of clearance on each side of the table so that people can easily get in and up from their seats. If there are any doors, it’s best to have a 4-foot clearance.
- Once you’ve determined how big your space is, you can either purchase the dining table and chairs separately or as a dining room set. Depending on the seating capacity you need, you can select a set that comes with a table and two, four, six or eight chairs.
Table Shapes
- A rectangular or oval table works best in a large, rectangular room.
- Purchase an extending or drop-leaf table so you can change the size of the table when you’re entertaining small or large groups.
- If you have a square space, a square or round table is ideal.
- For a small space, try a corner banquette in a kitchen.
Styles and Materials
Whether your taste leans traditional, modern, farmhouse or transitional, there’s a dining table to suit any style. You can find modern dining tables in light wood tones, metal and glass. Sleek chrome or brass trim and table legs are common in more formal, modern spaces. Traditional and transitional tables are typically made of painted wood or wood with a light or dark stain. Modern farmhouse or rustic tables come in a mix of wood and black metal.
Kitchen and Dining Chairs
Dining Chairs
Kitchen or dining chairs should be stylish and comfortable for your friends, family or guests. A general guideline is to have 2 feet between each chair so that every person has enough elbow room. Typically, armchairs are used at each end of a rectangular table, and side chairs are used on the sides. Otherwise, you can choose from armchairs or side chairs for square and round tables.
For a soft, plush seat, look for upholstered kitchen and dining chairs in fabrics ranging from velvet and linen to cotton and wool. Upholstered chairs can have a cushioned seat or both a cushioned seat and back for maximum comfort. If you have children, consider leather, faux leather or microfiber fabric to make cleanup easy. Frame materials include wood, metal, plastic, wicker and rattan.
Benches
Dining benches are an affordable and stylish alternative to chairs. Most benches are backless, but there are some with backs that are usually upholstered. As shown in the photo, mixing and matching chairs and benches in a kitchen or dining room is a popular trend.
Bar Stools and Tables
If you prefer a more elevated, yet casual dining experience, consider a bar table and stools. They work well in tight spaces, such as a small kitchen or patio. Bar stools also work well for kitchen islands, built-in bars, basements and more.
Bar Stools
When you’re purchasing bar stools for a kitchen island or built-in bar, you’ll first need to determine how tall you want the stools to be. There are three different heights: counter, bar and tall.
- Counter: Counter-height stools are usually between 22 and 26 inches tall.
- Bar: Bar-height stools are between 27 and 35 inches tall.
- Tall: These bar stools are taller than 36 inches.
To determine how many stools you need, measure the length of your island or bar. Then measure the width of the stool seat. If the stool seat is between 16 and 18 inches wide, allow 6 inches between each stool. Allow 8 to 10 inches between stools if the seats are each 19 to 22 inches wide.
Read this complete guide to selecting the right bar stools.
Bar Tables
Bar tables are 40 to 45 inches tall and available in round, rectangular and square shapes. They’re available in sizes that can accommodate two people and in larger sizes that can accommodate up to eight people. Matching bar table and stool sets are also available.
Kitchen Islands and Carts
Kitchen Islands
If you’re looking for extra storage, preparation or dining space, then a kitchen island is a good choice. This piece of furniture is a workhorse and can include features such as:
- Cutting boards for preparing food
- Hooks and bars to hang towels or utensils
- Racks to hold spices or wine
- Casters to make moving the island easier
- Drawers and adjustable shelves to hold pots, pans, cookbooks and more
For small homes or apartments, kitchen islands are especially useful because you can prepare food and, if you add bar stools, dine at the island. Look for an island with a drop leaf to save even more space when you’re not using the island.
Bar Carts
If you enjoy throwing parties and having cocktails, a bar cart is a good idea. They’re usually on casters to make it easier to move the carts from one space to another. They also fit nicely against a small wall or in a nook. Bar carts have a top and bottom shelf and can include wine storage, glass racks and detachable trays for easy serving.
Dining and Kitchen Storage
Every dining room and kitchen can benefit from additional storage. Here are a few ideas to store and organize your essentials.
Cabinets
China cabinets and hutches work well in kitchens or dining rooms and can store a lot of items. Use them as a pantry, for appliance storage, as a coffee bar and more. They’re usually made of wood. Some cabinets also have glass shelves to show off pottery or dishes.
Sideboards and Buffet Tables
Sideboards and buffet tables look similar to chests, but they’re used in dining rooms to keep linens and dishes within easy reach.
Home Bars
For the ultimate setup, a home bar is a must for entertainers. Home bars can look like armoires or cabinets that have wine storage, glass racks, liquor storage and more.