FIND THE PERFECT DINING SET FOR YOUR SPACE | JNS styleliving

          If you really want to make a house feel like a home, you need the right dining table and chair.A dining set is the centerpiece of home and a great investment. There are few things more than having a place to eat or drink with family, friends or guests.

It is also a place to do homework, puzzles, newspaper gazing, and a place to relax with your favorite’s drink. The best dining set for you will work for your budget, visually build and fit your space and be a style you will love for years to come. 

   

       Dining room set come in a range of styles, materials and sizes. But from wood, metal or laminate to various table top or leg designs; it can be hard to make the right decision! If you are like most of us, you probably don’t buy a new dining set every six months.You will use yours for anywhere between 5 and 10 years. So, choosing your dining set shouldn’t be done in a hurry. Read on for our top tips on choosing the best dining set for your dining room.

Use

        If your dining set is going to be used every day, you want to choose a design that is durable and easy to clean. If it’s mainly for special occasions, choose a table that has wow factor. Different kinds of dining spaces demand different types of dining tables and dining chairs.

Kitchens

       The kitchen is busiest room in the house. A dining set here will get plenty of wear and tear - and its fair share of spills and scratches. If your dining chairs will live around a kitchen table, consider easy-clean surfaces like wood dining chairs.

Dining rooms

              

           A separate dining room will give your dining set a bit of protection from everyday life - and this may be all the encouragement you need to head for the glass-topped dining table you've always wanted. Likewise, if your dining chairs will live in a formal dining room, go for a luxury look like dining chairs with velvet or leather upholstery.

Office

        A dining set does not just have to be limited to the home.There are many modern dining table styles that fit right into the office environment also. Modern marble dining set or a glass top dining set can add an instant update to your work area. 

As well as for the formal office, your staff will surely appreciate a lovely non-rickety plastic table for their break room. Round dining table set designs are the best for this, saving space and fitting in perfectly to smaller rooms.

Size

          It's important to have the exact measurements of the room for your dining set. This is especially crucial with smaller dining rooms. Have a look at your room and the furniture that will surround your dining set.

Measuring the length and width of your table is important to ensure your chairs fit comfortably in your area. A dining table worth its salt should be easily accessible with enough room for guests to pull out chairs and seat themselves comfortably, so size really is important.

      You’ll want three feet of breathing room on all sides and more is better to comfortably sit in a chair and move around the space to leave room for you and your guests to get up and down from the table. Make sure to allow 6"-20" of space in the center of the table between place settings, for dishes and decor.

        Allow a minimum space of 23" wide by 12" deep for each person. If you are using arm chairs, the width should be extended to fit the entire chair. Measure the distance from one chair arm to the other. Usually, this is about 26’’ to 30’’, meaning that is how wide each place setting must be for a table with arm chairs.

        Dining set come in a range of sizes starting small with your 4 seater dining table moving up to your average 6 seater dining table and then for the bigger families 8 seater dining tables and 12 seater dining tables.2 Seater is suitable for a couple who is living in a rented apartment and may shift in the near future.

Height

Dining Table 

 Standard dining table height is 30 inches. Pub and gathering tables, however, are 36" and 42" tall respectively. Also known as counter height  (36") and bar height (42"), these tables are trendy and novel. Perfect for eat in kitchens, breakfast nooks, and game rooms, these tall tables are fun for family and built to last just as long as dining tables.

Dining chair

        Allowing plenty of room to move your legs around, they allow you to dine, work or get ready in comfort. If you own a non-standard or custom-built table, you may require seating of a different height. With a seat height in the region of 17-20”, our chairs are excellent accompaniments to all of these areas

If you are unsure of the seat height you need, we recommend leaving around 8-10” between the underside of the table and the top of the seat pad. This enables you to reach the table easily with enough space to fit your legs underneath, as demonstrated in the image below.

          Dining chairs come in a variety of backrest heights, ranging from as low as 13” up to 22’’.Taller backrests may be a better option for rooms with high ceilings for a balanced and proportionate setting, and this works likewise with low ceilings and low backs.

Chair Widths

     It’s important to know how many chairs you actually require, which is why the width and shape of your table are other factors worth considering. Most dining chairs are between 16 and 20 inch wide. Chairs should be about 6 inch apart on each side so guests can move their arms comfortably. 

That means each chair takes up between 28 and 36 inch worth of table perimeter space. The backs of the chairs should sit at least 3 ft. from any walls to give diners enough room to get in and out.

Table Shape

 

         Dining tables are usually rectangular, square, round or oval-shaped.Your practical needs and the size of your room should determine the shape of your table. Here’s what you should consider with each dining table shape.

Rectangular Tables

        Rectangular tables are the most common. You’ll find that this shape comes in more styles, sizes and extendable options too. While a rectangular dining table suits most spaces, it works particularly well in long or narrow rooms.

Just remember, when it comes to choosing the right one, width is just as important as length. The wider the table, the more food it can fit, so the better it is for entertaining.

Square Tables

        If your room is square, it is a good idea to choose a square table. A square dining table creates more intimate dining experiences because it brings people closer together. Keep in mind though that the larger the square table, the more difficult it is to reach the food.

So, if you are planning to seat more than eight people, you might be better off with a square table that has an extension. That way, you can have the best of both worlds.

Round or Oval Tables

         Round or oval tables are best for small rooms. While this shape usually takes up less space, it still offers a good amount of surface area to place food. Obviously, the larger the tabletop, the more people and food you can comfortably fit. A round or oval table also brings people closer together, so it is great for conversation and ideal for parties.

Freeform

       The idea of freeform design is that there is no concrete definition. This category comprises any tables that do not fit within standard shapes. Our first example stands in a rotated L-shape, with a pair of standard legs supporting opposite a full slab.

Table support

      The base, usually legs, a pedestal, or a trestle, can have an effect on how many people you can fit at a table. When you see a table in person, sit at it to see if your legs hit the table’s legs. 

Verify you have enough space for your knees when you scoot all the way in, and if you can cross your legs underneath the table.If you want to be more flexible with your guests, pay attention to the leg width and where the legs are placed.

Single Pedestal Tables

      These tables stand on a large, single "leg" and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is easy to push your chairs flush to this type of table, but long legs may not enjoy the center impediment. 

Single pedestals are great for round tables, small tables, and/or pub tables in your eat-kitchen or breakfast nook. For your dining room, a single pedestal table works best when used for seating fewer than eight.

Double Pedestal Tables

       Two pedestals are better than one in a very large dining room. All pedestal tables "open" to accept leaves on geared slides, so they are easy to expand. The balance afforded by a double pedestal base, however, allows this type of dining table to open to seat 12 or more with relative ease. Double pedestal tables also tend to look a little more formal in your dining room.

4-Legs

           

       One of the simplest types of dining table bases, 4-legged tables has four supporting legs, with one supporting each corner. This type of base is common for square and rectangular dining tables. However, for rectangular tables, the longer it is, the more it needs extra support besides the four legs.

Trestle Tables

        The first known tables specifically for dining were trestle tables. Trestles add strength and stability to your dining surface and allow some design elements not available in other types of kitchen and dining tables. Expansion for leaves is accomplished with geared slides so that the table top slides apart and the trestle remain intact.

With a pedestal or trestle table, you have more flexibility to add more people to the table. Trestle tables can give you flexibility along the sides of the table, but can limit space at the ends of it. Look closely at how much space there is between the edge of the table and where the trestle supports are attached to make sure there’s room for your knees.

Cross-Legged Base

            A table with a cross-legged base features an x-shaped support placed under either sides of the tabletop, sometimes with one placed also in the middle. This type of base is mostly used for rectangular tables.

Colour

        Today’s on-trend shade is tomorrow’s fashion fail, so choose wisely. Colour is an important element in the orchestration of a fabulous home. Classic colours, such as the primaries red, yellow and blue, usually have staying power, mainly because they are so unapologetically basic.

But the longevity of a dining set means it must be able to work across changing themes. Staple hues like black, grey, brown and white will always be on-trend. They will also work as dependable backdrops to whatever trend colour you happen to love this season. Do you share your space with crayon-wielding toddlers or boisterous pets? Then we would suggest you avoid matt white and light woods.

Chair Upholstery

 Colour

 Upholstery plays a big role in how furniture looks, feels and how long it lasts. It is important to think about the upholstery choice before making a purchase.

 If you have young kids in your house, avoid light colours and choose a durable material such as leather or ultrasuede.Plain, neutral colours are more versatile than patterned upholstery so furniture will still look great if you decide to re-decorate. They are also timeless so they’ll never go out of fashion.

Material

           PU/PVC is vegan leather that's easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. But we recommend you take yours to a professional for deep cleaning. Durable like real leather, consider it a low-maintenance alternative.

Fabric-upholstered chairs and benches can be made from polyester, velvet,cotton or linen. With each of these types, you'll want to have them professionally cleaned and kept out of direct sunlight – too much time spent in the sun can fade their colour. Upholstered seating also offers a high level of comfort.

           Easy to wipe clean and effortlessly chic, faux leather is a great choice for the kitchen, delivering both elegance and convenience. Alternatively, wooden chairs possess a more traditional charm, still providing a functional, resilient option 

If you do opt for delicate upholstery, consider purchasing removable seat covers for everyday use. This will help you protect the fabrics so they look at their best when you are entertaining.

What are the different types?

Extending table

        If your house is on the smaller side but you still have quite a few people to seat around it, consider an extension dining table. On a regular day you may have the extension hidden and then when you are having more of a formal dinner with guests of family there is the option to expand. 

Different tables have different mechanisms and can accommodate for extra dinner guests. Removable leaves and drop leaves are all great ways to extend your table with ease.

Folding table

        Perfect for smaller spaces, our folding tables fold flat when not in use and can be stored away easily. They’re great for homes that only have 1 or 2 people living there.

Style

         It can be difficult to know how to achieve the look you want and what will look best in the layout of your dining room. Consider the following tips when making your choice: Dining tables and dining chairs are available in a huge range of styles. It's easy to feel overwhelmed, so let's take a look at some popular styles and how to create your perfect table and chair arrangement. There really is something for everyone - and every home. And choosing a new dining table is a great opportunity to explore a new design look.

Traditional

       Traditional style is still the most common you’ll find when shopping for dining tables. With elegantly carved wood, detailed textures, and rich proportions, this style is timeless and powerful. These tables are large and in charge, with plenty of room for guests. 

They make a lovely centerpiece and are substantial enough to call for a big, beautiful chandelier to illuminate the dining area. Traditional dining tables are elegant, super-versatile and never go out of style.

Modern

           Modern style evokes a graceful mixture of utility and aesthetics that flourished beginning in the 20th century, with clean lines and sharp angles framing unfussy surfaces. This table brings a thin, airy element to any room.

 Mid-century

      This very recognizable design style of the 1950s and 1960s is just as popular today thanks to its clean lines, simple yet sophisticated shapes, and focus on the natural beauty of wood. 

 The sleek silhouette and medium-to-light woods of the era feel both polished and fresh and bridge the gap between comfortable living and aesthetic delight. Clean lines, geometric shapes, and sleek simplicity give these tables a timeless appeal.

Industrial

      The industrial dining trend shows no sign of decreasing in popularity .Industrial style is meant to convey the look and feel of factory machinery and tools, with naked metal and bold, strong wood shapes paired into a purposeful look. Sturdy dining tables and chairs showcase cool urban flair and are perfect for contemporary spaces.

 Minimalist

     The minimalist interior design style is simple yet sophisticated. Quality and functionality are what matter most. If this is your style, look for a clean-lined, functional dining table in a neutral colour.

Scandinavian

         Scandinavian is about simplicity with a Nordic-touch. Uncluttered but warm, it brings together minimalism and functionality. If your interior design style is Scandi, then your dining table should follow suit! Look for a clean-lined, solid wood table that is simple and contemporary.

Contemporary

        Contemporary design can appear in a wide variety of looks, so long as they meaningfully present an “of the now,” up to date appearance. Contemporary tables can be found in every type of material and every shape configuration.

 Rustic

          The rustic style of dining tables uses unpainted wood in its natural form to bring a simple, natural feel. It is popular for cabins, cottages or for homes that embrace a rustic touch to their décor.

Shaker

        Shaker furniture is created for function and simplicity. Shaker tables don’t have unnecessary details or fancy inlays. They are simple and timeless and are mostly made of natural wood with a solid rectangular construction, simple lines and a matching set of dining chairs.

 Parsons

         A Parsons dining table is the perfect table for a super streamlined and contemporary style. There are a myriad of incarnations of its simple, balanced form, but this modernist style is always distinguished by clean angles and straight lines with absolutely no frills or ornamentation. The pared-down aesthetic makes this table incredibly versatile and timeless.

Dining Chair Style

     Whilst both a kitchen and dining room are used primarily for gathering around the table for food, each will require a slightly different style of furniture. There are open back chairs and there are chairs with solid backs, both upholstered or in metal, wood or acrylic. Look at the angles that make up the back, legs and arms and seats, and determine what looks good in your room and around your table.

 A smaller space might call for a more delicate, open style, while a large space might look good with larger more well-defined shapes. It’s essential that you consider the look of your interior, and go for a chair with a finish and material that will not only match but also enhance your space.

Arm Chairs

         Arm chairs have sturdy arms that are often done in the same wood or material of the legs and backs of your chairs. They feel a little more grand and formal than the other types, and it's common to find them at the head of a table. They have a weightier look to them than the other types, too, so they work well at the heads of your table or in a larger dining room.

 Side Chairs

        Side chairs are similar to arm chairs — just without the arms. People usually place these along the sides of their tables. There's no need to follow that old rule, even if that's how the chairs got their name. Because they don't have arms, side chairs are visually lighter than arm chairs. They can be ideal in a smaller space because their open sides let more light pass through.

Benches

           It's easy to maximize seating by using benches along the side of your table in place of chairs. Many benches have room to seat two, three, or even four diners.Whether you have a formal dining area or a casual kitchen-diner, a dining bench is a smart choice.

Materials

         Choosing the material for your dining table can be difficult. You have to balance price, ease of care, and your personal style to choose the right one, and a table that’s not a good fit on any of those could mean a buying decision you regret later. Here are the most common materials, and what to consider for each.

Epoxy Tops

        When it comes to marrying art and utility in one stunning centerpiece for your dining room, nothing comes close to the allure of an Epoxy Table. This exceptional piece of furniture is not just a table—it’s a conversation starter, a captivating artistic statement, and a functional dining table all rolled into one. Crafted with precision, each table is a bespoke masterpiece, enhancing your dining experience while effortlessly capturing the eye.

Ceramic Tops

           Ceramic finishes are a popular choice when it comes to dining tables, especially for those looking for a modern aesthetic. Ceramic is an artificial, man made material composed of clay, mixed with other inorganic materials which gives it the appearance of marble. It is then dried and glazed to form a finished surface that is completely sealed. It’s a strong and sturdy material that is resistant to spills, scratching and heat, which is very important for furniture such as dining tables.

Granite Top

          

          Formed over millions of years from compressed molten rock under the Earth’s surface, granite is extremely hard and durable. Alongside amazing heat-resistant qualities, granite is super hard wearing so is very unlikely to scratch or chip. Granite is made up of interlocking mineral crystals, the most common being feldspar and quartz. But an array of other minerals can be included, and these make each piece of granite unique. As Granite is completely natural, the variations of colour and pattern in each slab are one of a kind. Similar to Quartz, Granite doesn’t come cheap so it may be worth looking into alternatives such as ceramic. 

Wooden Top 

           Solid wood is a classic material because it is durable and easy to repair. If you're going for a wood dining table, always opt for hardwood such as mahogany, walnut, oak, or teak.Each piece has its own unique characteristics in colour, grain and durability.Wood tables are robust and durable and are great for everyday use.

Hardwood solids and MDF

         And while engineered woods such as MDF -- which is a mixture of hard and soft wood bits that have been compressed into board form -- are durable, they're not as strong and sturdy as hardwood. 

And while MDF, may be stable enough for the short term, hardwood is far more longer lasting. One key fact to keep in mind is that tables with removable legs often tend be made of fiberboards, a material made of pressed wood scraps.

Veneer/Wood-Look

           Wood veneer is often a more affordable alternative to solid wood. Here a very thin layer of solid wood (or material printed to look like wood) is glued to a plywood or other wood core. To identify good veneer, look for tables with clearly-labeled core interiors, like kiln-dried hardwood

Marble

        Marble is a natural material that is mined all over the world, with different areas producing different variations. Marble is not only stunning, but it’s also a very strong and sturdy material. However due to its natural properties it is very porous, so more care and maintenance is needed. Marble needs to be dusted and cleaned regularly and everyday spills such as coffee or orange juice may cause irreversible stains. As marble is a thick material, the table top will be extremely heavy and difficult to move which is worth bearing in mind if you’re planning on moving the table frequently.

Tile

      

        Tiles are no longer just for floors or splash backs, it’s also a great way to create a completely unique dining table too. Tiled table tops are a great way of injecting personality and style into a room, as well as some texture. Porcelain tiles are an ideal option as they aren’t porous and are highly durable. However, since the surface isn’t smooth as alternative table tops, tile tables can be tough to clean. Tiles can also chip easily which is something bear in mind, although individual tiles are a lot easier to replace than an entire table top.  

 Glass

       A popular choice, glass tables will give a contemporary touch to your space. Glass tabletops can include clear, frosted or tinted versions. They’re relatively inexpensive and “can create a feeling of space and openness.

Metal

        Metal, including stainless steel, brass, zinc and lacquered or painted versions of these, is used more frequently for table bases than tops. Sleek, modern or industrial, metal dining tables can add a glamorous touch to your space. They also have an added bonus of being easy to care for and clean.

 Plastic and Laminates

        Man-made materials, either molded into a shape or glued onto plywood or another core, are an inexpensive option. These materials tend to resist staining and require little upkeep, but they’re often perceived as cheap.

Rattan

        Rattan is a favorite material for dining table and chairs in coastal or bohemian homes. The palm-based material is lightweight yet durable.

What's your dining room budget?

      

      Last but not least - how much are you affording to spend? Remember, a bigger dining table generally means you'll need more dining chairs. And be sure to account for any storage furniture that you might need.

      You don't have to be a big spender to have a cool and stylish dining room. You'll often find fantastic bargains on clearance, or start with the bare minimum and add extra dining chairs over time.

 If you have a generous budget, you can think big. Browse big name brands and create the dining room you've always wanted.

       When searching for your next dining table, use our tips to help you choose the right one for your home.

More about dining tables:

Dining table with bench seating 

https://stylelivingkerala.blogspot.com/2019/03/impress-your-guests-to-bench-seating.html

Glass Top Dining Table

https://stylelivingkerala.blogspot.com/2020/04/glass-top-dining-table-elegant-addition.html