How to buy a dining table

The dining table – so central to family life: a gathering point for eating, entertaining, talking, homework and so much more. It needs to be strong. It needs to be sturdy. It needs to last. And it needs to be big enough for your needs. Not just for everyday use but for when it’s your turn to have everyone round. Surrounded by a set of comfy chairs, the scene will be set for a lifetime of mealtimes.

Things to consider

The most important consideration is the size of your room as that will determine how big a table you can accommodate and whether you should go for an extending table or a fixed one. Lay out sheets of newspaper on the floor to determine how big a table you can fit in. Remember to allow space for chairs and for walking round to serve up food and clear plates.
How many people do you need to seat, both for everyday use and for when you have guests? Have you got room to store extra chairs or will you need to leave them out all the time?
Consider your décor. If you’re the kind of person that likes to change things fairly regularly, then go for a timeless table design that will look smart whatever your decorating scheme.
Don’t forget about access. Tables are cumbersome beasts so make sure you’ll be able to get it where it needs to be without difficulty and swearing.

Styles and wood type

From space-saving round tables to large rectangular tables that extend, there is a wide range of styles both modern and traditional to choose from, and in a variety of finishes too. While glass tables can look stunning in the right setting, nothing beats a wooden table for strength, durability and natural warmth. Our dining tables come in for a lot of abuse over time, what with spillages, scratches and scuffs, but that’s where a wooden table comes into its own. A solid oak or sheesham wood table can be re-sanded, re-varnished, even repainted, and there’s nothing wrong with a few marks anyway – they add character and charm. These are the most widely available styles.

Probably the most popular choice, with sizes to suit the smallest of studio flat to the grandest of dining room.

Round tables are social as everyone can see everyone else. They are idea for smaller rooms too and can usually be tucked away in a corner when not in use.

Just the thing for rooms where space is at a premium yet still able to seat at least four people, a square table is ideal as an occasional workspace too.

The most versatile of tables. Extending for when you have guests or need more space for other activities, they revert back to a smaller size for everyday use. With a range of sizes available, there’s one for every size of room.

How to look after your dining table

A few simple steps will ensure your dining table lasts a lifetime.

Keep it protected with high quality beeswax. This nourishes the wood and ensures the rich grain is shown at its best.
Wipe any spills and slops immediately with a damp cloth then finish off with a dry cloth.
Keep your table away from direct sunlight to avoid fading and colour changes.
Don’t put your table near a radiator as the variations in temperature can cause joints and veneers to split or weaken.
Don’t put hot plates or cups directly onto the surface as permanent marks may be left behind.