Round or rectangular dining table derrymore patterson clapperton barnaby.

WHICH DINING TABLE SUITS YOUR HOME –

ROUND OR RECTANGULAR?

FIND THE RIGHT SHAPE FOR YOUR HOME

Are you unsure whether to choose a round or rectangular dining table? We help you compare shapes, dimensions and functions so that you find exactly the right dining table for your needs.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHAPE FOR THE ROOM

The dining table is the home’s central gathering place – this is where we eat breakfast, lunch and dinner with the family, but also gather for homework and long, delightful dinners with loved ones.

But which shape actually suits best? A round or rectangular dining table? Or is an oval table the right choice for your particular home?

When you choose the shape of your dining table, it is not only your personal style that matters. The home’s layout, the size and shape of the room, how many people you want to seat around the table and what atmosphere you want to create are also important factors to take into account.

In this guide we go through the advantages and disadvantages of round, rectangular and oval dining tables, so that you can more easily find the right model for your particular home.

ADVANTAGES OF ROUND DINING TABLES

Round dining tables are usually the tables that fit into smaller spaces while at the same time being very social dining tables that readily invite conversation.

  • Everyone is included in the conversation: Since no one is sitting at a corner or at the end of the table, all guests can see and talk to each other.

  • Everything within reach: Food and drinks placed in the middle of the table are easy for all guests to reach – no one needs to stretch extra far.

  • Softens the room: The round shape of the table gives a soft feel to rooms that are often dominated by straight lines and sharp angles.

  • Flexible extension: Many round dining tables can easily be extended with an extension leaf, then taking on an oblong shape with space for even more seats.

WHEN IS A ROUND DINING TABLE MOST SUITABLE?

If you have a smaller living room, a square dining area or a smaller kitchen, a round table is very practical. If you want to create a cosy atmosphere that invites social dinners where everyone can see each other, a round table is absolutely perfect.

ADVANTAGES OF RECTANGULAR DINING TABLES

If you are choosing between a round or an oblong dining table, the rectangular shape can be the solution for the larger family, or the couple who love to invite guests for dinner and parties, with a home that has a long, narrow room or an open-plan layout.

  • Easy to adapt: A rectangular dining table fits well in kitchens and living rooms to create a harmonious dining area with room for more. The table can usually be easily adapted with one or more extension or additional leaves.
  • Perfect for oblong rooms: If you have an oblong kitchen or living room, a rectangular table is a perfect fit without taking over the room.
  • Easy to make larger: Rectangular tables are easy to combine with extra tables if you have invited guests for a larger gathering or party. Or add several additional or extension leaves.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A RECTANGULAR TABLE

It is always important to choose a table that is adapted to the space and the chairs – a table that is too large easily dominates the room, while at the same time you do not want the table to look too small. If you want to know more about how to place and match your chairs and choose the right size of dining table, you can read our guide to choosing the right dining chair.

ADVANTAGES OF OVAL DINING TABLES

Cannot decide whether you want a round or a rectangular table? Then oval dining tables give you the best of both worlds.

  • Combines form and function: You get the soft shapes and social feel of the round table, but with the length and capacity of a rectangular table.
  • Safe for families with children: No sharp corners to bump into, which makes the flow around the table feel smoother and safer.

  • Creates a sense of space: The rounded shape at the ends makes the room feel more open than with a traditional rectangular table with straight edges.

HOW MUCH SPACE IS NEEDED AROUND THE DINING TABLE?

Regardless of whether you choose a round, rectangular or oval dining table, you should allow approximately 80–100 cm between the edge of the table and the wall. This provides enough space to pull out the chair and walk behind someone who is seated.

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