While most dining rooms are still the ideal spot to enjoy a meal, this multifunctional space can host a range of other activities. Whether yours has become a spot for homework or your latest hobby, create a strong foundation with a sturdy, handcrafted dining table. From figuring out a small breakfast table for four to deciding on an extendable table for larger gatherings, below are our tips for measuring and preparing your space for a dining table.

First, consider how many people you want to seat at your table—this will determine the table size you need. We recommend having at least 24 to 26 inches of tabletop space per person or place setting.

Rectangular Tables:
●    4 seat table: 48 inches
●    6 seat table: 60-72 inches  
●    8 seat table: 80-87 inches
●    10 seat table: 92-108 inches  
●    12 seat table: 120 inches

Round Tables:
●    4 seat round table: 42-48 inches in diameter  
●    6-8 seat round table: 60 inches in diameter

Space Around Your Table

The next important consideration is the amount of space around the table. You’ll need to make sure that there’s enough space to walk and pull back chairs—leaving at least three feet of space between walls or walkways and your table.

There's a simple mathematical equation to account for three feet of space around your table: Start by measuring the length and width of your room in feet, then subtract six from both the length and width. The answer to this equation will give you the maximum length and width of your dining table to ensure that there is at least three feet of clearance.

Example: If your dining room is 14x11 feet, you would subtract six from both 14 and 11, making your ideal table size around 8x5 feet.

Measuring for Dining Chairs

Whether you’re using existing chairs or buying a completely new set, you’ll want to make sure that your dining chairs fit the height of your table. We recommend having about 10 to 12 inches of space between the apron or underside of your table and the seat of your chair—this keeps everyone sitting at a comfortable height. If your seating is upholstered, you’ll want to consider that you’ll have a little more room because the cushion will compress an inch or two.

Adding Lighting and a Rug

Complete your dining area by making it even more inviting—add one of our heirloom-quality pendants or chandeliers for a source of ambient light, and bring in color and texture with one of our plush hand-knotted rugs. Here’s how to measure and find the right pieces to suit your space:

Lighting

●   Light Diameter: Here’s a formula to figure out what size fixture your table needs: When you add the length and width of your dining room in feet, the sum will equal the diameter (in inches) that your light needs to be. For example, if your dining room is 14 x 10 feet, 14 + 10 = 24, so you should have a 24-inch-wide light fixture.

●   Light Length: The bottom of the light fixture should be at least 30 inches from the surface of your dining table.

Rugs

●   Rug Size: Choose a rug that extends at least two feet on each side of your table—so that your rug accommodates all the legs of your chairs even when they are pushed away from the table. Most tables will need a rug that's at least eight feet wide.

●   Rug Style: Most rugs are rectangular, making them ideal for rectangular tables. For a round table, a large round rug can work, however, a large rectangular area rug can work just as well as long as the table is centered, with plenty of space around it.

Once you've found the right size dining table, make sure that you have the right amount of light for your space and learn about selecting chandeliers, sconces, and more with our guide How to Choose Dining Room Lighting.