9 tips for choosing a dining table for the kitchen

Popular models

There are non-transformable (classic) and folding tables. The covers of the latter can be:

• sliding - they diverge to the sides, an additional tab is inserted into the free space;
• retractable - one edge of the tabletop is attached to two legs with rollers; when not in use, the table is completely hidden in other furniture;
• hinged or folding - the tabletop is attached with one edge to a vertical surface; when not in use, the table is located parallel to the wall and takes up almost no space.

The sliding top dining table is the most popular model. This is a practical option, convenient for both daily use and for hosting a large company. There are several designs of sliding tables:

1. Only the tabletop extends; the frame does not change shape. This is the usual option, in which parts of the lid are moved to the sides, and additional elements are placed in the free space. When extended, two more seats appear.
2. The frame does not expand; additional elements slide out from below the main tabletop. Depending on the number of spare parts, the number of seats increases by two (one tab) or four (two elements).
3. The lid and frame slide apart. In such models, the number of additional seats depends on the number of inserts. Maximum occupancy is three parts and six places.

The width of additional tabs in sliding models cannot be less than the standard seat - 50-60 cm. For tables with a fixed frame, the weight of the extended parts of the tabletop must be taken into account so that the entire structure does not lose stability.

Retractable and hanging transformable tables save space in a small kitchen, but structures on brackets are not very reliable and should not be overloaded. Table models with one or two legs can withstand heavy loads. The main disadvantage of retractable and wall-mounted options is that they cannot be moved to another location. True, movable models for the kitchen have recently appeared, but they can only be moved along the wall along a rail guide. The listed structures are unlikely to be suitable for receiving a large number of guests.

Non-separable classic tables are usually made from natural wood or wood materials. Dimensions most often do not exceed 100-120 cm, unless the product is made to order. Long and narrow tabletops, designed like a bar counter, are usually made non-sliding, but there are models that have retractable or hanging elements.

A hanging or sliding table, even at its maximum size, cannot accommodate more than 5-7 people. For a large family this is not the best option.

Non-transformable

Sliding

Folding

Mounted

Bar counter

Material

The criteria for choosing the highest quality kitchen furniture are functionality, beauty and of course the quality of the material. The product must be safe, environmentally friendly, and not emit harmful substances. Strength not only affects the longevity of use, but also protects against negative surprises, since the surface must withstand full serving. Proper treatment will prevent accidentally spilled liquid from damaging the surface, and will also ensure easy care of the furniture. Today popular models are made from: wood; glass; plastic; Chipboard and MDF.

• Tree

Eco-friendly tree felling is not a budget option. Typically, wooden models are found among the happy owners of large houses decorated in a classic or country style. It's a shame to fold such a table. Often their companions are large carved legs. Natural material is rarely painted; its natural color looks rich and stylish. Wood will visually make small apartments heavier. The countertops are varnished and impregnated with a special anti-damp agent. Wooden furniture is usually shaped like a square, circle, or rectangle.

• Glass

For small living rooms, it is universal and convenient to purchase glass types. They will harmoniously complement techno, high-tech and minimalist spaces. Visually, such countertops look smaller, lighter, and increase the area of ​​the room. However, glass is dangerous for small children, with the exception of knee triplex, this type is impact-resistant and wear-resistant. Glass also requires thorough care. Remaining stains from water and food are cleaned with special products.

• Plastic

The most economical material is plastic. It is used by government agencies to save money; plastic furniture is installed in rented apartments. The most important thing to pay attention to when purchasing such a model is the documents permitting the use of plastic for domestic purposes. The seller's fame is also a significant point. It is worth choosing the best manufacturer that has been on the market for a long time. If plastic parts break, they can cause injury. A low-quality product can only withstand light serving and dishes.

• Chipboard

On par with a plastic one, a table made of laminated chipboard is the most inexpensive option. Its disadvantage is that it breaks down very quickly. After six months of active use, chips, scratches, and swelling from water ingress are found on the surface. Mechanical damage causes dents or even complete failure. This material is easy to paint and takes on the appearance of any texture intended by the manufacturer.

• MDF

Sawdust of various types of wood, mixed with paraffins, modified melanin, and resin are pressed, resulting in an MDF board. Often, the furniture industry uses MDF that has undergone a veneering procedure. Such plates have high wear resistance, are not subject to shrinkage, they are environmentally friendly, and durable. A variety of designs, colors, textures allows you to satisfy even the most capricious taste. The use of MDF boards by people who prefer eco-materials significantly saves wood and natural resources.

In addition to the classic options, there are elite, expensive ones, such as stone and tile cladding. Such tables look expensive and are appropriate in homes with appropriate interiors. The surface is easy to clean. They last a long time.

Product size

Before choosing a kitchen table, you need to determine its size and place in the interior. For a small kitchen, it is more practical to choose a traditional rectangular or hanging and pull-out options. A more spacious room can accommodate round, oval or square models. The standard seat size for one person is 50-60 cm wide, 30-32 cm deep. This is enough to accommodate dishes and cutlery for one person. How to choose the right dining table depending on the number of family members or guests - approximate calculations are shown in the table.

There is only one general rule - no matter what shape the table is, square, round or rectangular, the distance from the floor to the tabletop should not exceed 70-80 cm. The ideal width for two is 80 cm. For four people, if there is space in the kitchen, it is suitable round table with a diameter of 90 cm, for six - 110-140 cm. Larger options are more appropriate for the dining room.

Which table to choose is up to the owners to decide, but it should be borne in mind that very small furniture is inconvenient for a large family: there is little space for people, dishes, and chairs. The huge structure is usually not fully used. As a result, some part of it is filled with various items that are not related to the meal.

The maximum recommended diameter of a round tabletop is 135 cm. With a larger size, it will be inconvenient to serve.

Number of legs

The number of legs at the dining table affects the comfort of those who will sit at it:

1. One central leg is convenient because it leaves a lot of free space. Such support must be reliable and durable. Most often, round models are made with one leg.
2. Two legs are an original, but rather inconvenient option. They are located on the short sides of the table in such a way that it is difficult, if not impossible, to use these places for sitting.
3. Round or triangular tabletops are most often made on three legs. This is a very stable design, but it is not suitable for rectangular or square shapes.
4. A traditional rectangular, square or oval table usually has 4 legs, but larger models may have one or two additional legs in the center. This is the most familiar, convenient and sustainable option.

There are models of transforming tables without legs at all or with one or two that extend when unfolded, with elements mounted on brackets. The less space under the furniture is occupied, the more convenient it is to use. But we must not forget about the stability of the entire structure. It doesn’t matter how many legs support the tabletop - the main thing is that it stands firmly.

One central leg

Two legs

On three legs

Four legs

Table transformer

Posting rules

For a spacious kitchen, a round or square table installed in the center of the room is suitable. It is believed that the first option is the most “democratic” - it does not have “main” places. But such a model will require free space so that you can approach the table from all sides. For modest kitchens of typical apartments with an area of ​​less than 12 square meters. m this is not the best choice.

In a small kitchen, the table is installed so that it does not interfere with moving around, using the stove, refrigerator, or cabinets. One option is to place it near a window. This can be a regular table or a bar counter along the entire wall. The advantage of this option is that there is always good lighting, the disadvantage is that the window sill will have to be maintained in perfect order. If the partition with the window is too narrow, you can turn the tabletop to the end side.

When installing a table, you should consider the view from the window. If there is endless construction, rows of garbage containers or a busy highway, then this is not the best idea.

A rectangular table can be placed in a corner. In this case, it is more convenient to use an L-shaped kitchen sofa instead of chairs. The advantage of this option is that it saves space, the disadvantage is that it is only suitable for a small family of 2-3 people. If you place such a table along the wall, it will fit well into a kitchen of any size. Advantages: does not interfere with movement, can accommodate up to 6 people depending on its size. Disadvantage: Only three sides are used.

When a table is placed in the center of the room, you should make sure that it is at least 75 cm from the nearest wall. This is the amount of space needed to freely move a chair, stand up or sit down. If there is a doorway behind the person sitting, then this distance increases to 80-110 cm.

When placing a table, you should take into account the location of wall cabinets, which may interfere with those sitting. The recommended distance from the table top to the bottom of such furniture is 65-70 cm.

In a spacious room, place a table in the center of the room

In a small kitchen, the table should not interfere with movement

A rectangular table will fit into any kitchen if placed along the wall

Basic recommendations for choosing a kitchen table

The selection of a table begins not in the shopping center, but in the kitchen. It is necessary to determine:

• installation location;
• its design;
• dimensions of the dining area;
• desired number of seats.

The dimensions of hanging, sliding, retractable transforming tables are assessed in the unfolded state. We must not forget that you will need space not only for the countertop, but also for chairs or stools so that family members and guests can sit comfortably in the kitchen. When issues with size and design are resolved, you can move on to the appearance. How to choose a kitchen table in accordance with the interior of the kitchen - recommendations:

1. It is advisable to leave the purchase until the final stage of renovation, when the style and color features of the kitchen have already emerged and the set has been purchased.
2. Color and style depend on the overall kitchen design. For example, an artificially aged, shabby wooden table is suitable for country or ethnic, but completely inappropriate for modern or classic.
3. You should consider not only the color, but also the material from which your existing furniture is made. For example, a kitchen set made of wood or veneer can be combined with glass and stone. A metal countertop is suitable for stainless steel household appliances and furniture of strict geometric shapes.
4. The rating of kitchen tables is topped by light or white models with regular geometric shapes. They fit harmoniously into most interiors.

The table, first of all, should be comfortable and reliable. Intricate designs may be spectacular, but are completely unsuitable for real life.

Before choosing a table for the kitchen, you should inquire about the quality of the material from which it is made. For example, some types of wood may be too soft or not resistant to moisture. They require a topcoat to protect them from water and accidental mechanical damage. Glass parts should not have scratches, inclusions, or swelling; the ends of the table top should be perfectly polished. It is good if the corners of square or rectangular glass tables are covered with plastic or wooden covers to protect against injury. You should not rely on the integrity of manufacturers. When choosing, you need to remove the components of the structure from the packaging, carefully inspect them to ensure there is no damage, check for the presence of fasteners, and ask for an explanation of the installation diagram (if self-assembly is planned).

Leave the purchase for the final stage of repair

Color and style depend on the overall kitchen design

Combine with other furniture in the kitchen

Choose models of the correct geometric shape

Rating of the best dining tables

Above I have put several links to selections, look also at these two products and their “options” on store websites.

Domoteka Real-7 - furniture with a surface made of artificial stone costing 12,100 rubles. This material not only looks very impressive, but is also quite unpretentious in use. The base with figured legs is made of laminated chipboard. The width of the working area is 56 cm and the length is 75 cm. If necessary, it doubles thanks to the tilt-and-turn transformation mechanism.

Pros:

• the stone can withstand heat and does not absorb dyes;
• doubles in size;
• many configurations.

Minuses

• heavy.

Eames DSW – round copy with a diameter of 100 cm for 15,700 rubles. The table top is made of MDF, the support is made of solid beech. The metal frame adds a special touch to this simple product. It serves not only for decorative purposes, but also gives the furniture strength and stability. The elegant combination of colors harmonizes with all modern styles, but fits especially harmoniously into minimalism.

Pros:

• simple and at the same time effective design;
• easy assembly;
• spacious.

Minuses:

• costs more than similar options in a different design;
• does not fold out.

The best manufacturers

If you have a question about which table is best to choose for your kitchen, you should familiarize yourself with the main manufacturers. Italian furniture is rightfully in demand. A large number of companies compete with each other, maintaining the quality and design of their products at the highest level. The product lines of Italian brands include both sophisticated options for luxury apartments and quite affordable models in the mid-price category. And the flights of fancy of furniture designers can amaze an inexperienced person.

Germany has always been famous for its pedantry and reliability. Tables produced by German furniture companies are distinguished by high quality materials and processing, durability of fastenings, convenience, and thoughtful designs. The design is closer to calm classic models.

Poland successfully adopts all European innovations and copies designs and designs from popular manufacturers. Due to cheaper materials and labor, the products of furniture factories remain in the average price category, but do not lose much in quality. It is a mistake to think that “Chinese” means “cheap”. There are tables produced by them with an original design, made of very high quality materials. Only outright fakes of low quality will be really cheap.

Over the past couple of decades, Russian companies have been successfully squeezing out Western manufacturers. The advantage of domestic furniture makers is their knowledge of the realities of life. They match the size and design of their tables with the dimensions and layout of standard city apartments, thereby capturing a significant part of the market.

Kitchen table color - which one to choose?

One of the important options for choosing a table in the kitchen is its color; for arranging your kitchen, it is important that the table matches the color of the kitchen furniture.

• You can match the table with furniture fronts, especially kitchen cabinets, the table can match or contrast with them.
• You can choose a table made from the same material as the top of the furniture, or at least in the same shade.
• From a chromatic point of view, the table can have a color identical or similar to the coating that covers the wall in the work area.