The best dining tables for small spaces
Explore the ideal tables for occupying small spaces with our expert guide.
When space feels like a luxury, choosing the right dining table comes down to practicality and comfort. The right dining table should tick these three boxes: shape, size and practicality.
For small dining rooms or homes, choosing the best dining table is crucial. A dining table that’s too big will overwhelm the room, while choosing the right one will make the room feel balanced and proportional.
From the best shapes, table measurement tips to the best materials, discover all there is to know about choosing the right dining table for a small space. When you’re done reading, browse our range of dining tables to get started.
Why does shape matter in a small space?
In a small space, it’s about maximising what you have without overwhelming the room. The shape of your table top affects the natural flow of the room and how you can comfortably sit and enjoy a meal in peace.
Round tables are usually the safest option when it comes to small dining spaces thanks to their soft curves and absence of sharp corners. Square tables are also great picks for small kitchen diners and if you want to keep the space balanced. Rectangular dining tables suit narrow dining or galley-style layouts if you regularly have people over.
How big should a table be for a small space?
First, measure your dining room dimensions, like the wall-to-wall length and width. This determines the table size you should choose for your space.
Here are a few points to consider before buying a dining table:
- The layout of your space - determines what size and table shape is best suited
- The traffic flow - where people walk and the distance from the door
- Any obstacles in the way - architectural features, doors and direct pathway
Another thing to consider is the number of people you can have over without the space feeling cramped. These are a few measurements to consider when choosing a table:
- Have at least 90cm free space between the table and wall
- Keep 100cm to 120cm distance from walkways
- Allow for free space between chairs if they have arms etc.
For small dining rooms, a rectangular dining table should be between 100cm to 160cm to comfortably seat 2 to 4 people. A round dining table should have a diameter of 110 to 115cm to accommodate 2 to 4 people.
Round dining tables
A round dining table is an ideal pick for a small space. It saves you the anxiety of having to navigate awkward corners and naturally takes up less space. Its welcoming shape also encourages conversation if you regularly have guests over. Round dining tables are an easy pick for open plan spaces, square dining rooms or the small corner in your kitchen.
Picking a glass-topped table like our Hatton dining table creates an illusion of space makes the room feel light and airy. When it comes to picking dining chairs, choose ones that take up less space and have a compact build, preferably ones with no arms so it doesn’t feel too cramped.
Square & rectangular dining tables
Depending on the layout and size of your dining room, rectangular dining tables can work in a small space. Rectangular dining tables work well in galley-style layouts or narrow dining rooms. For small dining rooms, a rectangular dining table should measure between 100cm to 160cm to comfortably seat 2 to 4 people.
Meanwhile, square dining tables provide a solution for square rooms like a kitchen diner or small dining rooms. If you want to bring balance and want to keep it simple, square dining tables are a great solution for small spaces.
Corner dining tables
Corner dining tables are a great choice if you have a cosy nook in your kitchen diner or dining room and want to maximise space. For this style, the table tops are typically rectangular or have soft curves instead of sharp corners. Oval-shaped table tops are also quite popular for this style as they are slightly longer than round tables and don’t have the sharp corners like square or rectangular tables.
The type of chairs you pick for corner dining tables is also important since corners can feel cramped if you pick the wrong ones. Armless dining chairs free up space and are an ideal pick. Depending on the layout, benches are also a popular option for corner dining sets and provide extra seating when you have people over.
Folding dining tables
Folding dining tables are an ideal choice for small homes where space is a luxury. If your space doubles as a living, dining or working area, folding tables may be the solution you need.
If you’re considering a folding table, choose a style that can double as a desk or has storage shelves. The type of material you choose for folding tables is essential - they should be lightweight and easy to put away, or easy to clean as it’s a multi-functional piece.
Why are materials important when choosing a dining table?
Choosing the right material for your dining table has a long-term impact on your lifestyle thanks to its appearance, maintenance, durability and practicality. Here’s a comparison chart on what to consider when choosing a dining table:
Material | Appearance | Maintenance | Durability | Practicality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Wood | Natural and cosy | Easy to clean | Depends on the type of wood | Good but depends on the finish |
Glass | Light and airy | Easy to clean | Considered fragile | Good but needs to be handled carefully |
Marble | Luxe | High maintenance | Stains can remain | Requires regular cleaning |
Marble-effect | Luxe | Depends on the material | Depends on the material | Good but depends on the material |
Metal | Contemporary | Easy to clean | Durable but can be scratched | Good but depends on the type of metal |
FAQs
What is the best shape of dining table for a small room?
Round dining tables are usually the best picks for a small dining room or kitchen diner. Depending on the layout, square dining tables also work. Rectangular dining tables work if it’s a long and narrow dining room or galley-style layout.
How much space do I need around a small dining table?
This depends on the shape of your dining table. A round dining table should have a diameter of 110 to 115cm to accommodate 2 to 4 people. A rectangular dining table should measure between 100cm to 160cm to comfortably seat to 2 to 4 people. There should also be at least 90cm free space between the table and the wall.
Are benches better than chairs in small dining rooms?
If you’re choosing a corner dining table for a small dining room, a bench is a good option to add more seats. At the end of the day, it really depends on the layout and size of your dining room.
We hope you enjoyed reading our guide on the best dining tables for small spaces. Looking for more guides like this? Check out our guide to the best wood finishes for dining tables for more useful tips.
