DINNER PARTIES, FAMILY MEALS, WORK SPACE … THIS STAPLE PIECE HAS TO DO A LOT, SO PICK THE PERFECT ONE FOR YOU
A well-worn dining table is a piece of furniture that can get away with a few scuffs. Those stubborn red wine rings and scribbles from naught y toddlers only add to its charm over the years. It’s an item of furniture that tells a story, which is why, if you’re looking for anew one, it’s not adecision to be taken lightly. The chances are that you’ll have it for years to come. So what are the practical tips to swot up on, and what are the trends to know? We speak to the experts to find out more.
Your chosen table shape can impact the layout of your room and how your family or guests interact with the space. Most homeowners opt for round or rectangular tables over oval and square alternatives. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to shape, but thinking about the proportions of your room will help. ‘We prefer circular tables in small dining rooms, whereas rectangular tables are better for longer, narrower rooms,’ says Emily Brown from Emily Lauren Interiors. It’s also important to think about the table size and the space around it, as well as how much room each setting has. A lways keep at least 60cm minimum space around your dining table: you want the space to breathe.
We’re seeing extendable tables come to the fore, as homeowners want flexibility. The extendable table has come on leaps and bounds, and no longer involves an awkward and complicated procedure. Brands like Heal’s have come up with table designs that seamlessly extend and detract with ease. The Heal’s Anais table has a smart ‘butterf ly leaf ’ extension mechanism. W hen closed it measures 2000mm and comfortably seats eight. With one leaf, it extends to 2450mm, accommodating 10, and with two leaves, it reaches 2900mm, providing seating for 12. ‘This ensures that the furniture not only fits but enhances the overall aesthetics and usability of the space,’ says Hannah Armstrong, senior furniture buyer at Heal’s.
If you’re thinking about the best space-saving
