Small and fine table by house doctor with iron table legs and mango wood table top

Background information

How to find the right table

15.11.2017

Translation: machine translated

The table is the centrepiece of your flat: you don't just eat there, you also work, play and communicate there. Last but not least, it also has to withstand all the parties and other festivities. But what should you look out for when buying a table? Our short guide will help you find the right table for you and your habits.

When you buy a table, there are many aspects to consider. Answering these questions will help you choose your new piece of furniture:

1. How many people should be able to sit at the table:

How many people normally sit at the table and how many guests should it be able to accommodate? There are tables that can be stretched or extended using built-in mechanisms or simply using interlocking elements.

2. How to calculate the right size?

As a general rule, you should allow for a width of around 60cm and a depth of around 40cm per square. Allow a further 20cm in the centre for decoration, pans and salad bowls: all together this gives a total depth of 1m. If you're setting the table more succinctly, you can opt for less depth.

3. What is the perfect table height?

In general, tables measure between 74 and 78cm high (measured at the top edge). The majority of chairs have a seat height of around 46cm and are perfect with 76cm tables. To ensure that you and your guests are seated comfortably, it is advisable to have a distance of 30cm between the seat height and the top edge of the table. If you already have chairs, be sure to measure their height beforehand, especially if they have armrests. That way, you'll avoid any nasty surprises.

4. How much space do you need for the table?

The table itself also needs space to display all its attractions. In addition to the dimensions of the table, add the depth of the chair and a further 30cm: now you've calculated the surface area you need for your table and can stand up comfortably.

5. The right shape

Round, rectangular, square or oval, there's something for everyone. But each shape has its advantages and disadvantages:

Round or square tables allow all the guests to chat together. But this only works if the table isn't too big: the larger it is, the greater the dimension between guests sitting face to face, and communication can therefore be more difficult. What's more, these tables can quickly appear massive.
Rectangular shapes are very popular. With good reason: they make the best use of corners and spaces. Oval tables are comparable to rectangular tables in terms of space used.

6. The right frame

The classic frame with four legs is the most popular. Lately, tables with a single leg or two legs inside are gaining in popularity and are just as stable as classic tables. If the side legs disappear, there is more room to sit and the chairs can be arranged more freely. Plus, vacuuming after the festive meal is much easier.