Dining Table Buying Guide

Choosing a dining table is an exciting part of shaping your home. It’s where everyday meals happen, guests gather, and memories are made. With the right information, selecting a table that fits your space, style, and lifestyle can feel confident and enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

This guide walks you through the key considerations so you can choose a dining table you’ll love living with for years to come.

1. Start With How You Use Your Dining Table

The best dining tables are chosen with real life in mind. Before focusing on style or size, think about how you’ll use the table most often:

  • Daily family meals versus entertaining guests

  • Casual gatherings or more formal dining

  • Whether you need the flexibility of extension leaves

  • A subtle, timeless look or a true statement piece

Clarifying these needs first makes every other decision easier.

2. Choosing the Right Size

Proper sizing ensures both comfort and usability in your space. When you have a general size idea in mind, that will help you choose whether a single pedestal, double pedestal, trestle table or leg table will suit your space the best.

A few key questions:

  • How many people would you like to seat at the table every day?

  • How many people would you like to seat at maximum capacity?

  • What size is your dining space?

General guidelines:

  • Allow 22-26 inches of width per seated person for comfortable spacing

  • Allow 19-20 inches of width per seated person for compact maximum capacity seating

  • Maintain 36" of clearance around the table

  • Consider extensions leaves for flexibility

  • Consider dining benches for more compact seating (especially helpful for seating children in the dining party)

3. Understanding Table Base Styles

The base of a dining table affects seating comfort, legroom, and overall appearance.

Single Pedestal Tables

Pedestal tables use a central base instead of four corner legs. This design allows for easy movement of chairs and creates an open, inviting feel. Pedestal tables are a popular choice for both everyday dining and statement designs. A well-known example of this construction is the Helix Twist Pedestal Dining Table, which showcases a sculpted central base and solid wood craftsmanship.

Double Pedestal Tables

Double pedestal tables feature two central bases, making them ideal for longer tables and larger dining rooms. They offer excellent balance, stability, and generous seating flexibility. For larger dining rooms, tables like the Ashley Double Pedestal Dining Table illustrate how dual bases improve balance, legroom, and visual symmetry.

Trestle Tables

Trestle tables use posts connected by a stretcher beam. This classic construction provides exceptional stability and works especially well for larger tables and traditional or transitional interiors. A traditional example of this design is the Bowerstown Trestle Table, which highlights the stability and openness trestle construction provides.

Leg Tables

Four-leg tables are a timeless choice with a familiar look. They suit many styles and spaces, though seating is slightly more structured around the corners. A versatile example of this table construction type is the Afton Dining Table, which showcases a clean, modern design.

4. Dining Table Shapes

Rectangular Tables

Rectangular tables are the most versatile option and work beautifully in a wide range of spaces. They’re ideal for larger rooms, accommodate more seating, and expand easily with leaves when guests arrive.

Round Tables

Round tables create a warm, conversational dining experience. They’re especially well suited for square rooms and smaller gatherings, and they pair naturally with pedestal bases for excellent legroom.

Square Tables

Square tables offer a balanced, intimate feel. They work best in compact dining areas and are perfect for smaller households or cozy spaces.

5. Solid Wood Construction Matters

A dining table is a long-term investment, and solid wood construction makes a meaningful difference. Solid hardwood tables offer:

  • Long-lasting durability

  • Natural beauty and grain variation

  • Structural strength for everyday use

  • The ability to be refinished and refreshed over time

Handcrafted Amish dining tables are built from solid hardwood rather than veneers or composites, resulting in furniture that’s designed to last for generations.

6. Dining Sets vs. Table‑Only Purchases

Dining Sets

Dining sets include a table and matching seating designed to work together. They simplify decision-making and ensure balanced proportions and a cohesive look.

Table Only

Choosing a table on its own allows you to mix seating styles or incorporate existing chairs. This approach offers more creative flexibility while still benefiting from custom craftsmanship.

7. Customization Options

One of the advantages of made-to-order furniture is the ability to personalize the details. Many dining tables can be customized with:

  • Your choice of wood species

  • A wide range of finish options

  • Top Shape & Edge profiles

  • Table size and leaf configurations

Customization ensures your dining table feels truly at home in your space.

8. Lead Times and Craftsmanship

Handcrafted Amish furniture is built one piece at a time with careful attention to detail. While lead times are longer than mass-produced furniture, the result is a table made with intention, quality, and lasting value.

9. Final Thoughts

Choosing a dining table should feel rewarding. By understanding shape, base style, construction, and customization options, you can select a table that supports how you gather, entertain, and live every day.

If you have questions about sizing, styles, or customization, our team is always happy to help you find the perfect fit.