Oak Dining Tables & Wooden Kitchen Tables

How to Choose the Right Dining Table

Start with the room, not the table. Measure the width and length of your dining area, then note where doors, radiators, kitchen units and walkways sit. Your table should leave enough space for chairs to be pulled out and for people to move around comfortably without squeezing past furniture.

Choose a shape that suits the room. Round and square tables can work well in compact kitchens because they are easy to move around and have no sharp corners. Rectangular tables suit longer rooms and larger families, while extending dining tables provide flexibility: keep the table compact for daily use, then extend it when guests arrive. Check the exact dimensions in both closed and extended positions before ordering.

Allow enough room for chairs and movement. As a practical starting point, leave approximately 90 cm between the edge of the table and a wall or other furniture where possible. This gives people space to pull chairs back and walk behind someone who is seated. In smaller rooms, a more compact table shape or narrower chairs can make a noticeable difference.

Think about how you use the table. A family table needs enough seating and a surface that works for everyday meals, homework and visitors. If you host regularly, an extending design or a larger fixed table may be the best choice. If your kitchen is compact, a smaller fixed, drop-leaf or round table can provide a more comfortable fit without taking over the room.

Consider materials and finishes. Oak and other natural wood finishes bring warmth and visible grain, while painted tables in white, grey or cream can brighten a smaller kitchen or dining area. Mixed-material tables with wood, metal or stone-effect tops can add a more contemporary feel. Always refer to the individual product page for the exact material and finish, as construction varies across the collection.

Check the product specifications before you buy. Each table has its own dimensions, materials, care guidance, delivery details and assembly requirements. Some tables arrive assembled, while larger designs may need legs or extension mechanisms fitted. Always review the individual product page for exact details before ordering.

Dining Tables FAQs

What size dining table do I need?
Choose a table size based on both the number of people using it and the room around it. Measure the floor area and leave enough space for chairs to be pulled out and for people to walk around the table. Always compare the exact product dimensions with your available room space before ordering.

Are extending dining tables a good choice?
Extending tables are useful if you need extra seating occasionally but do not want a large table taking up space every day. Check the closed size, extended size and extension mechanism on the individual product page, so you know how the table will work in your room.

How much space should I leave around a dining table?
Where possible, allow around 90 cm between the table edge and walls, kitchen units or other furniture. This gives enough room to move chairs and walk behind someone who is seated. Smaller rooms may require a more compact table shape or narrower chairs.

Should my dining table match my chairs?
They do not need to match exactly. Matching tables and chairs create a coordinated look, but mixing materials and finishes can give a room more character. The important points are chair height, comfort, seat width and whether the chairs fit under the table when not in use.

Do dining tables require assembly?
Assembly varies by product. Some tables arrive fully assembled, while larger designs may need legs, tops or extension mechanisms fitted. Check the individual product page for exact assembly and delivery information before ordering.

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