Forever Furniture: A Buyer’s Guide to the Dining Table

The dining table is not only a gathering spot for family and friends, but also a focal point in the home. If you intend to shop for one you’ll have forever, you will probably want to buy only once. So what do you need to look for? A dining table needs to be well crafted and strong, seat a good many people and be of a good shape and size to suit most rooms. As a dining table can be an expensive investment, you will need to take your time in your search to tick off the key criteria you hope the table will satisfy at home. Here are 12 suggestions.

Whether you want glass, marble, metal or solid wood, the possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing the right material for your dining table. However, there are a few things you should take into consideration before making that big purchase.

Glass-top dining tables work well with many interiors, giving off an appearance of elegance and sophistication, perfect for modern and contemporary houses. As well as being easy to clean, glass tables are perfect for those working with a smaller space; the transparent surface reflects light helping to create the illusion of space. However, glass isn’t as sturdy as other materials so it’s important that you make sure the glass has been tempered. This means the glass has been chemically and thermally treated so it is more resistant to scratches and is less likely to shatter if knocked over, like normal glass. As glass is such a fragile material it can be a safety hazard, which may not be suitable if you have young children in the home.

Marble has been used in flooring for many years but is becoming a popular choice for tabletops too. Naturally beautiful, marble table tops have a timeless appeal and are sure to be a show-stopping piece of furniture in your home. However, whilst marble can be durable if cared for properly and thoroughly, it is perceptible to stains and scratches. Regular sealing is also necessary to provide some form of protection, although unfortunately this doesn’t prevent scratching.

Metal tables are commonly found in restaurants and kitchens, however, more and more people are opting for this unique table-top in the home too. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but a metal table is perfect for those looking to create an industrial-chic design in the home. Metal has lots of great benefits – it is a very durable material and super easy to clean. However, perhaps one of the biggest issues with metal table tops is how it absorbs heat. If any hot dishes are placed on the table this could cause the metal to heat up, so it’s important to use placemats and coasters. You’ll also need to make sure that the table is kept out of direct sunlight, as the metal top will absorb the heat from the sun’s rays.

Solid wood is perhaps one of the most popular choices when it comes to dining tables, and it’s not without reason. Wood is classic, durable and easy to repair if it gets damaged. Not only that, but it’s also incredibly beautiful. There are so many different variations of wood to choose from, whether it’s Pine, Walnut or Oak. Each piece of wood has a natural grain that shows character and depth, and as no two pieces of wood are the same you get a unique table that you won’t find anywhere else. However, when it comes to solid-wood tables, you need to be careful of moisture. If drink or food is spilt, it must be wiped up immediately as it can eventually lead the wood to split and swell over time – be especially wary of watermarks left by cups!

There are three main factors involved in finding the right solid-wood tabletop; durability, grain and cost. Once you have listed out the requirements for your table, you can then make a decision that will best suit your needs. Read our more detailed guide on everything you should know before buying a wooden table here.