In This Guide
Measure the room, not just the table
A dining table needs clearance on all sides for chairs to pull out and for people to walk past while others are seated — commonly recommended as at least 36 inches between the table edge and the nearest wall or furniture.
Match shape to room proportions
Rectangular tables generally suit longer rooms, while round or square tables often work better in more square-shaped rooms or smaller spaces, since they don't create the same tight corners a rectangular table can in a compact room.
Think about how many people you regularly seat
It's easy to size a table for occasional large gatherings rather than everyday use. A table that comfortably seats your regular household, with an extendable leaf for guests, is often more practical day to day than a permanently large table.
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