Dining room tables come is so many different shape, sizes, and styles. During my recent move, we finally threw out our old 5 piece dining table set and replaced it with a 7 piece set. Although this table set isn’t ours – on loan from a family member – it has gotten me thinking about what it is we need in a dining room table.
We enjoy entertaining, which usually includes having people over for dinner and a few drinks. We also have much more space now than we used to and have a much more modern looking and feeling apartment. Here are some of the things I’ve thought of that I will keep in mind when I look for my next dining room table.
Consider the space you have
This is definitely one of the best pieces of advice when you are looking for a new table set. It is very important to consider the space in your house or apartment before you go out and buy a new dining table set.
Dining tables for small spaces
There are many dining tables for small spaces that are designed specifically with saving space in mind. Although they often sacrifice seating room for space, you will not have to go without comfort and style.
Drop leaf dining table
One of the most popular types of space saving dining tables is the drop leaf dining table. This table has an end leaf that folds down so that you can push the table out of the way or up against the wall. You will often find drop leaf dining tables and double drop leaf tables in smaller apartments as they are a great way to save room.
5 vs 7 piece dining set
This is one of those big decisions you need to make when buying a new set. If you have the extra space, you may opt for a 7 piece dining set. That said, if you have limited room or do not wish to have your dining table take up too much space, a 5 piece dining set might be all you need.
The major difference between the two is the size of the table, and one comes with two less chairs. You can often find the same style of table available in both sets so you will not have to sacrifice the style you are looking for.
Different styles and choices
As I mentioned there are countless styles and choices when it comes to buying a dining table set. From glass to marble, you will get to choose from a wide variety of selections to make sure you get exactly what you need. Here are some of my thoughts on a few of the more popular styles.
Rustic dining room tables
Nothing says earthy feeling more than rustic dining room tables. These rustic sets are often created out of reclaimed wood and have a very rustic feel to them. Unfinished wood is usually used to create these rustic dining tables as it gives them the feeling they need. Although they wouldn’t match our apartment, they would make a great addition to any cottage.
Glass top dining table
Nothing says contemporary quite like a glass top dining table. These are great for the minimalistic look and feel if that is what you are going for. I don’t think I would choose a glass top dining table for myself mainly because I’d be afraid of scratching or chipping it (even though I know they are quite durable). There are some extremely great looking glass top tables though.
Solid wood dining table
My old kitchen slash dining room table was a solid wood dining table, and boy was it heavy. It had seen better days and was definitely passed around in its time, but you could always count on it. A solid wood dining table often comes in an oak or maple wood. One thing to note about these solid wood tables is that they are very inconvenient to move. If you are someone like me who has been moving almost every year, they may not be the best choice.
Marble top dining table
These are definitely a table to consider. The marble top dining table is an extremely stylish and popular table set. Many people choose marble top dining tables as a way to match their kitchen counter top style. They are extremely durable and last for a very long time, which makes them a popular table for people that are established and have a place to call home.


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