What Is a Good Width for a Dining Table?

Wide dining tables seem awkward in small spaces, yet a narrow table won't provide enough room for table settings. In older homes with petite rooms, glass tabletops work well; by exposing more floor space, glass makes a room appear larger. Today's builders construct dining rooms to accommodate most standard tables. If you follow the guidelines that professional decorators use, your table will appear proportionate to the room. Does this Spark an idea?

Standard Width and Height for Dining Tables

Dining tables generally measure 36 to 42 inches wide. This width allows adequate space for dinnerware as well as centerpieces, trivets and serving plates down the center. The length depends on whether you have a table leaf in place, so no standard length exists. The average dining table is 29 to 32 inches tall. Furniture makers have found that the standard dimensions work well in most modern homes. Narrow tables less than 30 inches wide do not provide adequate space for dinnerware, and tables over 42 inches wide inhibit free conversation across the width.

How to Choose the Right Length

Because you don't want guests and family members crowded around the table, allow 20 to 24 inches of elbow room for each diner. Rectangular tables that measure 60 to 72 inches long will seat six people. To seat eight diners, you'll need an 84-inch table. Square tables seat only four people comfortably, but round tables over 48 inches can seat six guests.

Consider the Ideal Shape

If you throw small dinner parties often, use a round table, as the shape allows guests to chat with everyone better than a long table. The round configuration uses space more efficiently and adds curves to a boxy room, although the removable leaf on long tables accommodates small and large parties alike. No matter which shape you select, keep in mind that table legs use up space; tables on pedestals provide more leg room.

Allow Space Around the Perimeter

Designers typically allow 5.5 feet from the edge of the table to the nearest wall. For example, a 3-by-5 table works well in a dining room that measures 14 by 16 feet. The extra space creates a passageway and provides enough room for chairs.

Scale

Ideally, the chandelier and area rug will be in scale with the dining room table. If you already have the lighting and rug in place, take measurements to determine which table dimensions will balance their volume. The rug should be at least 4 feet wider and longer than the table without touching the baseboards. The table should be at least 12 inches wider than the chandelier to account for headroom when guests get up from the table.