As we’re sure you’re aware, being a great hostess isn’t easy. And for us, the key starts with good design. Today’s topic? The dining room. Every year, the same design dilemmas come up again and again when it comes time for special occasions: How big of a dining room table do I need? and How many people can fit at my table in my formal dining room? You want to make sure your dining space is cozy… but also that everyone has plenty of room.
You don’t want anybody to have to squeeze between the chairs and the wall, or have someone trip over the rug. Between all of the siblings and cousins and kids, friends and family, it can be a bit hectic. That’s why we put together this infographic that’ll help you create a perfectly scaled dining room with perfectly arranged dining room furniture as the focal point:
The trick of the trade is to leave at minimum 36 inches between the edge of your dining table and the wall or other furniture. Keeping at least 45 inches between your table and the dining room entryway will also keep from any bottlenecking in and out during dinnertime. When deciding on a rug, add about 2 feet on each side of the dining table to achieve an “optimal” size.
Shop the Look
Round Table vs. Rectangular Table
Round dining room tables create a more intimate environment than other shapes, so they’re great for family gatherings or dinner parties with your best of friends where everyone’s wine glasses are full. Round tables are also a great option for kitchens or spaces without a designated dining room.
A caution for the round table: If you have a large dining room, a large round table does make it difficult for guests to talk across the table. If you prefer to entertain for large groups, a rectangular or oval table may be your better option. You can also draw on themes from your living room and echo the look of a favorite accent chair, or set of bar stools.
With a standard 20″ x 20″ dining chair, here’s your guide to buying round dining tables:
A 42″ round table can fit four people comfortably.
A 48″ round table can seat 4-6 people comfortably.
A 60″ round table can seat between 6-8 people comfortably.
With a standard 20″ x 20″ dining chair, here’s your guide to buying oval dining tables:
A 60″ oval dining table can seat up to 6 people comfortably.
A 97″ oval dining table can seat up to 8 people comfortably.
A 102″ oval dining table can seat up to 8 people comfortably.
A 120″ oval dining table can seat up to 12 people comfortably.
Shop Round Dining Tables:
Rectangular dining tables are the go-to table shape for any dining area. It’s practical, fits easily in a dining room, and most importantly, it looks great. As a nice in-between when it comes to dining room furniture, the oval table is the more unusual dining room table shape, but if your space allows it, it can serve as an elegant contour to your room.
Once you have selected your dining table and chairs, it will then be easy to move on to other dining room decorating ideas–like choosing a light fixture, choosing a pendant light, adding a china cabinet, and more.
With a standard 20″ x 20″ dining chair, here’s your guide to buying round dining tables:
A 70″ rectangular dining table can seat between 4-8 people comfortably.
An 84″ rectangular dining table can seat up to 8 people comfortably.
A 90″ rectangular dining table can seat up to 8 people comfortably.
A 108″ rectangular dining table can seat up to 10 people comfortably.
A 130″ rectangular dining table can seat up to 10 people comfortably.
Shop Rectangular Dining Tables:
Kathy Kuo Home Design Services
Feeling inspired? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings, rooms sets, and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you love where you live.
Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!
This post contains affiliate links; we may earn a commission for clicks and transactions.
10 thoughts on “Expert Advice: How to Design a Perfectly Scaled Dining Room”
I really like all these dining room decoration. Looking pretty.
I’ve been wanting to remodel my kitchen and change it into something more modern, that’s why I’m currently looking for some furniture that will suit my design concept. I guess you’re right; a round dining table will create a more intimate environment. I just hope that there’s ll a shop that will customize furniture because I’ve been thinking of adding a little twist on my round table.
We have a 96″ oval table so we’re thinking we can fit 8 but we’re wondering if we should get chairs with arms or not? Do you think we’ll have the room? Our dining room table is boutique and finished with natural walnut. https://www.rowanoake.com/shop/form-series-dining-table
It’s really helpful that you said to leave at least 36″ between the edge of your dining table and the wall so that it’s easy to get in and out of seats. I’m hosting Thanksgiving this year so I want to have a dining table that can hold as many people as possible. I’ll measure my room so that I know how big my table can be.
very riveting and I will make inspiration.
Thanks for explaining that rectangular dining room tables are popular for their practicality, function, and the fact that they look great. My husband and I will be moving to a larger home soon, and it has a dining room that we’ll need to buy a furniture set for before we can use it. I’m glad I read your article because now I know what kind of dining room tables are out there and feel much more prepared to start shopping for furniture!
I love the work of the dining table, the efforts put in by the experts is mind-blowing. Thank you so much for the lovely work
love!!
We’re glad you enjoyed it!
I have a temporary dining room that is 13×14 feet
With on completely open end
My table is an English farmhouse antique 12 feet by 43 inches. I don’t want to cut it. Can I put one end against the wall and just put chairs on the sides. I would like to design a vinet of large urn and some silver pieces. This would not interfer with the usability of the sides. How do you feel about this idea. Thank you in advance for your expertise.
Elizabeth Romero
erdelajara@gmail.com