Selecting the Right Size for Your Space
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The most difficult part for many people when styling a new room is determining the best sizes of pieces. Nobody likes to get a brand new dining table only to learn that it won't fit in their dining room! With a tape measure and a little know-how, you can make sure you get the perfect piece for your room, every single time. Standard Dining Table SizesOne of the most asked questions we get is "what is the right size dining table for my space?" It's a question that's often answered with more questions. What are the dimensions of the room you're working with? How many people are you looking to seat? These are important factors to take into account when determining the best size dining table for you. Most dining tables are made according to standard measurements. The standard width is 36-40 inches while standard height is 29-31 inches.
The length varies depending on how many people the table sits. The seating number varies due to the differences in leg layout of the table and chair sizes. Calculating Table SizeHere's some additional tips for determining the best size table for your space: |
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The Old Mill 86" Reclaimed Wood Dining Table and Portofino Leather Dining Chair Berham Chestnut |
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Standard Dining Chair Sizes |
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The Renegade Denim Blue Linen Dining Chair |
Another important factor to take into account when selecting a table for your space is the type of dining chairs you'd like to use. Most regular dining chairs, also called side chairs, are arm-less. These chairs are very adaptable and can be used for multiple functions, which is why they have become the most common type of chair for all dining positions, including the head of the table. The average seat height ranges from 16-22 inches. The average seat width is 15.5 inches in the back and 18 inches in the front. The average depth of the seat is 16-18 inches. A good rule-of-thumb to follow would be to allow 12 inches of space between the seat and table to give sufficient leg room. |
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If you desire a more traditional dining space, you might opt for an armchair at the head of the table. |
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Armrests typically have an additional 7-9 inches in height from the seat, while the average width at the front of the chair is 19 inches. You should take into account the additional height that the arms provide and allow about 7 inches of space between the armrest and the apron, if your table has one, or the underside of the table. This allows for ample space when tucking the chair in. |
The Tunisia 48" Round Dining Table Black Granite with Portofino Leather Dining Chair Vintage White |
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The apron of the table is another important factor to consider when adding armchairs to a dining space. |
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The apron, also called skirt or skirting, refers to the portion of the dining table that is vertically positioned beneath the table top. This serves to hide any corner blocks, bracing, or any mechanical pieces underneath the table. The Colonial Plantation Rectangle Dining Table Weathered Teak, pictured to the left, is a great example of a table with an apron. Aprons are typically 1.5-3 inches in height. An alternative to a table with an apron would be a slab-style table. These tables forgo the apron, opting to instead show the table internals with pride. The lack of an apron allows for extra space for armchairs so they can be neatly tucked in. |
Standard Gathering Table Sizes |
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The Steamboat 66" Gathering Table Weathered Gray and Mozambique Wood and Iron Counter Chair Walnut |
Gathering tables, also known as counter-height tables, follow dining table standards for length and width, while the height is usually 36 inches. These tables are great for informal dining spaces, such as breakfast nooks. They can also be repurposed as a standing desk! Gathering tables are typically fitted with counter chairs these chairs have the same standards for width and depth as dining chairs, but have an average height of 24-26 inches. This allows for the 12 inches of space that is recommended between your counter-height table and seat. |
Standard Round Dining Table SizesRound dining tables are a great option for a smaller space, as the lack of corners make the table much more compact. A round table also cultivates an atmosphere of coziness and togetherness, since you can easily see and converse with others. For larger groups, however, we recommend going with a standard dining table. While you can see everyone at the table, carrying on a conversation across a large table can prove difficult. The diameter of the table is the most important factor to take into account when determining the best size table for you.
Like dining tables, the amount of seats that a table can support varies depending on the width of seating as well as the design of the pedestal on which the table sits. Standard Buffet & Sideboard SizesA sideboard or buffet, also known as a buffet table, is a long, low piece of furniture that's usually placed in a dining room to store and display items. It can also be used as an extra space for serving food. Sideboards and buffets are versatile enough to have in a living room, an entryway, and a hallway as a storage and display piece as well. |
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Determining the right size buffet for your space can prove to be somewhat of a challenge. Though usually long and low, sideboards need to be selected carefully in order to be in proportion to your dining table. Sideboards have an average depth of 20-22 inches. It's advised to keep at least 24 inches of space between other pieces to allow for comfortable circulation. The average length for sideboards is 60 inches. These go well with dining tables that are equal or greater length so the sideboard doesn't overpower it. The height of a sideboard is 34-36 inches. This is the perfect height for comfortably serving food on top. This also makes the sideboard slightly taller than your dining table, making it well proportioned.
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