When it comes to choosing a dining table, size and style often get all the attention, and not for no reason! But one deceptively simple detail can completely shape (haha, get it?) how your dining space functions and feels: the shape of the table itself.
Should you go for a classic rectangle, or opt for the flow and intimacy of a round design? The answer depends on your space, your lifestyle, and how you like to dine.
Let’s break down the benefits of each, so you can decide which one is best for you.
Round Dining Tables: Curves with Character
Pros:
- Perfect for conversation: A round table encourages equal, easy conversation. With no ‘head’ of the table, and everyone facing inward, nobody is left out, and everyone is included!
- Space savers in tight rooms: With no corners, round tables can fit neatly into smaller, or awkward spaces.
- Soft, organic feel: Visually, they soften a room’s lines and create a sense of flow! If your dining area is part of an open-plan kitchen, a round table can soften the overall look, and create a relaxed, organic feel.
Considerations:
- Limited seating for larger groups: Round tables can comfortably seat between two to six people, but once you size up to accomodate more people, they can take up a lot of space – more so than their rectangular counterparts.
- Not ideal for buffet style meals: With no straight sides, it’s harder to set dishes along the middle, which is something to keep in mind if you entertain often.
Round tables are best suited to smaller households, informal dining, or rooms that need flexibility and flow.
Rectangular Dining Tables: The Classic Crowd Pleaser
Pros:
- Seats more, easily: Rectangular tables tend to accomodate more people, making them ideal for families or those who entertain often.
- Great for narrow rooms: Long and lean, they fit naturally into most dining spaces and balance out rectangular rooms easily.
- More surface area: Handy for hosting, decorating, or speading out everything from homework to holiday dinners.
Considerations:
- Can feel formal or distant: Especially in longer styles, it’s harder to chat with guests at the far end (though, this might work in your favour if you’re not a fan of everyone at the table?).
- Might overwhelm small spaces: A large rectangular table in a small room can feel bulky and disrupt flow.
Still, if you have the room, and regularly host family or friends, a rectangular table is likely your best bet. It’s structured, versatile, and works with a wide range of dining styles – plus you have the option to pair with a bench or dining chairs!
What About Oval and Square Tables?
While round and rectangular tables get most of the spotlight, oval and square tables can be great middle-ground options.
Oval tables, like the Fresco, offer the flow and softness of a round table with the added seating space of a rectangular one. They’re particularly useful if you like the idea of a round table, but just need to fit more people.
Square tables, meanwhile, work best in square rooms (who’d have thought?), or small spaces, and can create a lovely sense of balance. However, like round tables, they’re typically better for smaller groups.
Style and Finish Matter Too
Whichever shape you happen to choose, consider the material, base design, and leg placement. These elements can impact both the style and practicality of your table.
If you go for a pedestal base, like the Vintage, especially on a round table, you’ll maximise your legroom, and be able to squeeze in a few extra guests. A cross-leg base, like the Granada, is a great way to add a rustic or industrial touch.
The finish of a table also makes a big difference. Light wood, glass, or glossy surfaces can help a table feel more open and airy; ideal for smaller rooms! Darker or matte finishes add a touch of richness and drama, which makes for a great focal point.
Still Unsure? Try This
A quick and easy tip is to grab some masking tape and mark out the shape of your desired table on the floor. Walk around it, place some chairs, and see how it feels in your space. This will give you a real sense of how easily you’ll be able to move around it, and help you avoid any regrets down the line!
Remember that there is no one universally ‘best’ table shape, only what works best for you. If you love laid-back brunches and cosy dinner chats, a round table might be your perfect match. But, if you’re the go-to host for family gatherings or need extra seating, then a rectangular table will serve you well.