Shape Matters Too

Square, round, rectangular, oval… Tables come in a wide range of shapes, and the one you go with will largely be a reflection of your own personal preference. There are, however, a couple of things to keep in mind when you are considering tables based on shape.

Round tables can lead to better conversation flow, but if you get one that is a pedestal table (with one central leg), be aware that they can get wobbly, particularly if you have too many leaves in the table.

Square/rectangular tables are the tried and true standby and will never wobble on you, but be aware that the legs can make it difficult to get additional chairs around it if you have guests.

Style Points

Style can encompass a couple of different things when it comes to dining room tables, and is different from type, which we’ll cover next. The first style point to consider is quality, also known as price. Set a budget that you’re willing to spend. Tables can range from cheaper, mass-produced versions to more expensive, hand-crafted ones. The latter will tend to be of a higher quality, look better and last longer, all at a cost, of course. Bottom line, buy the best table you can.

The next style point is the table top itself. While these can be composed of any number of different kind of materials, wood and glass are the two most popular. If choosing wood, select a wood type that goes with the wood in your house/dining room. This will make the table more a cohesive part of its environment. If the wood is painted, make sure the color fits with the room/house.

There are a few things to consider when going with glass. Fingerprints will show up more, as will peoples’ laps. Except in rare occasions, you won’t have the option of table leafs with glass. If you do decide to go with glass, make sure that the table comes with silicon pads that go between the glass and base to prevent the glass from scratching.

One more style point to consider. Tables can range from the traditional to the contemporary (and all points in between). Again, make sure the “period” of the table matches your room/house, or it will stand out like a sore, uh, table.

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