Eclectic Elements

Tips for Choosing the Right Dining Table

Interior Design Tips by Eclectic Elements

Your Dining Room is an area of our homes where our families gather. It becomes a place for meals, work, projects, entertaining, and so much more. But selecting the right dining room furniture can become a daunting task. Here are some tips from one of our Eclectic Elements designers to help you select the most comfortable and practical dining room furniture options for you!

- The most important step in selecting any new furniture is to take measurements. You don’t want to find the table of your dreams, only to discover it doesn’t fit. Taking measurements before shopping will save you time and grief in the long run. Record all of your measurements on a notepad and take them with you for easy reference. You may consider making a small sketch (it does not have to be to scale).

- When selecting a dining room table, determine how many place settings you will need. This will help you select the proper size and shape table; as well as how many chairs to purchase. Allow 24” per person as a guide when thinking about how many chairs a given sized table will accommodate.

- A dining room table should be a minimum of 36 inches across however it is more practical to purchase a 40”- 42” width. Based on the length of the table, you may consider an even wider width so it looks proportional. For example, a 12’ table could easily be 48” wide.

- Allow for at least 36 inches around the outside of the table to allow space for chairs and a walkway on all sides. If your table measurement does not leave enough space consider reducing the number of place settings. Most tables come with removable/storable leaves that can be added for special occasions.

- If purchasing dining chairs separately be sure they are the correct height for your table. Most dining tables are 29 to 30 inches tall; look for chairs that are approximately 18-19 inches tall. If your table is an unusual height, speak with the salesperson about the proper size of chair to make your diners comfortable.

- Once you have selected the proper size dining room table and chairs you may want to add additional furniture to the dining room. China cabinets and hutches are decorative and practical for storing delicate items. Buffet tables offer more serving space and linen storage. Many people are using console tables in their dining areas as well, long narrow wall hugging tables that offer additional space for placing smaller items.

- More often than not, people will also consider mixing finishes in dining rooms to give a more relaxed dining feel. Our sales consultants can offer up numerous suggestions if you are open to considering a dining room that in not to “matchy-match”

Eclectic Elements is here to assist you in selecting the right size, shape, and style of furniture for any room in your house. We offer all kinds of furniture in all styles & budgets. Visit us at our showroom for Special Sales up to 50% off! www.eemiami.net