Dining Table Guide

Choosing the Perfect Dining Room Set: A Guide to Timeless Elegance and Functionality

The dining room provides the scene of some of the most memorable moments in a person’s life—it’s where family and friends gather to share meals, conversations, and create memories. Choosing the perfect dining room set goes beyond selecting a table and chairs; it’s about creating a space that balances style, comfort, and functionality. At Mobilart we believe that your dining room should reflect your personal taste while providing an inviting and luxurious atmosphere. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting your ideal dining room set.

Table Shapes: Finding the Right Fit for Your Space

The shape of your dining table can significantly influence the flow and feel of your dining area. Understanding how each shape fits into different spaces is the first step in choosing the right dining table. Before selecting a dining table, it’s crucial to consider how many people you need to seat regularly and during special occasions. A well-sized table ensures comfort and functionality. If the dining space can accommodate an extendable table an excellent option is to choose a table which accommodates extensions.

Rectangular and square Tables

Rectangular Tables: A classic and versatile option, rectangular tables are ideal for longer or more narrow rooms. They offer ample seating and are perfect for both everyday dining and formal gatherings. They also offer a maximum amount of surface area if you ever need to add someone to the end of the table. This of course works best if the table is on pedestals.

Square Tables: They are well suited for square-shaped rooms or large open concept spaces. They are often wider than rectangular tables and so require more width in the over all dining area. They work particularly well with intimate settings. Square tables are often designed to seat eight diners but certain models offer extensions that can add more seating for those whose space can accommodate it.

Round and oval Tables

Round Tables: Round tables are perfect for promoting conversation, as everyone can see and interact with each other. They are a great choice for smaller dining areas or more intimate dining experiences. For larger spaces, consider an expandable round table or one with a pedestal base to maximize legroom.

Oval Tables: Similar to rectangular tables but with softer edges, oval tables bring an elegant and fluid feel to a dining room. They work well in rooms that need a bit of flow without the hard lines of a rectangular table. While they can create easier passage at the ends of the table this does sacrifice some of the table’s surface area.

Material Choices: Balancing Aesthetics with Durability

The material of your dining set not only affects its look but also its durability and ease of maintenance. Consider your lifestyle and dining habits when selecting the material for your table and chairs.

Wood pieces

Wood: Timeless and versatile, wood is the most popular material for dining tables. Hardwood options like oak, walnut, and mahogany are durable and can withstand years of use. Wooden tables offer warmth and can suit a variety of styles, from traditional to modern.

Glass and Ceramic

Glass & Ceramic: For a sleek, modern look, glass and ceramic tables are a stylish choice. Glass tables make a room feel more open and are great for smaller spaces. Glass and ceramic tables are a great choice for families with children as they are amongst the most durable of options. Ceramic tables can simulate the beauty of marble tables without requiring the same level of care and maintenance.

chair styles: comfort meets design

Marble

Marble: Known for its luxurious appearance, marble adds a touch of opulence to any dining space. While its undeniably beautiful, marble does require special care to avoid stains and scratches and is best suited for formal dining rooms or areas with less frequent use.

upholstered chairs

Upholstered Chairs: Upholstered chairs bring comfort and a touch of elegance to your dining room. They are available in a range of fabrics, from luxurious velvets to durable linens. Choose performance fabrics if you need easy maintenance. Upholstered chairs work well in both formal and casual settings, offering an elegant, luxurious appeal. The most popular and elegant option for upholstered chairs is wooden legs. The style of leg chosen is an important factor in creating the style of your dining room.

metal chairs

Metal Chairs: For a more modern or contemporary vibe, metal chairs bring a clean, edgy look to your dining space. Pairing them with a marble, ceramic or glass table creates a balanced aesthetic.

credenzas, buffets and console

mixed material chairs

Mixed Material Chairs: Combining materials such as wood, metal, and upholstery can create an eclectic, curated look. These chairs blend the best of comfort and style, allowing you to add texture and personality to your dining area.

Credenzas, Buffets and Consoles: Functional and Stylish Storage Solutions

A well-chosen credenza or buffet not only adds extra storage but also enhances the aesthetic of your dining room. These versatile pieces provide space for storing tableware, linens, and other dining essentials while serving as a decorative element that ties the room together. When selecting a credenza or buffet, consider the scale of the piece in relation to your dining table and room size. For a cohesive look, choose materials and finishes that complement your dining set, whether it’s sleek and modern or elegant and contemporary. Additionally, a buffet can serve as a surface for displaying decorative items or even doubling as a serving station during large gatherings, adding both functionality and style to your dining space. If your space is more restrained or you don’t require the extra storage, you can always consider a console instead of a credenza. This will give your room a lighter feeling while still providing space for decorative elements such as lamps, floral arrangements, artwork or mirrors.