How to Dine Together in 2021
In 2021 we can finally gather and enjoy eating and drinking with family and friends. But before you start planning the menu, let’s look at what you really need to ensure that your guests will have an unforgettable experience. We have a few secrets that will have your guests raving about your party, and it all starts with the dining room table!
Dining Room Table Sizes
The key to a successful experience starts with the perfect dining table. It should be comfortable and inviting without feeling crowded. Remember the old rule, “less is more”. You should consider switching from a ten to an eight-person seating arrangement if the overall feel will be more comfortable. Think about looking at dining tables with expanding leaves if you intend to host larger dinners, but only if they will still fit comfortably in your space.
When deciding between a square, rectangle, or round dining table size, your choice should be proportional to the shape of the room, but also the number you want to seat. For example, conversation can become difficult with tables measuring more than seven feet wide. If you are still unsure and you want to visualize the space your dining table will take up, a tip is to place a sheet on the ground or create an outline with masking tape. Take measurements and consider space between individual seats. Personal space is important for comfort and a good average is around 3 to 4 inches between individuals.
Dining Room Styles
The perfect dining table often comes down to materials, length, lighting, and surrounding pieces. But let’s start with the basics. You have incredible style choices available today that range from modern to casual dining options.
Here are four styles to keep in mind.
1. Modern/Contemporary Dining Tables
Today’s modern designs are sleek with clean lines and a minimalist look. This mid-century style allows you to change looks as often as you would like with today’s hottest colors and trends. Materials include glass tops, metal bases, concrete, or sleek woods.
This style is often considered “formal” dining. The woods are darker with ornate detailing found around the edges and feet. They have a timeless design that has remained popular throughout the years and is unlikely to go out of style in the future.
The transitional dining table is a combination of contemporary and traditional styles. The woods are similar to traditional but can be stained with more contemporary colors. The lines are also sleek and, more often than not, very simple.
4. Country/Rustic Dining Tables
The one characteristic that stands out the most from country/rustic dining tables is the distressed woods in cream, black, light blues, natural colors, and even barn reds. Farmhouse-style dining tables may carry a feminine touch with curved bases or legs that show a distinctive vintage style.
Dining Table Height
Dining tables can have different shapes and sizes. However, to function well, it must be high enough so that there is enough clearance space above the knees for your guests to eat or chat comfortably, and the table should also not be too high. Here are three heights you will commonly find when looking at dining tables.
Standard-Height Dining Tables
The standard height of a dining table stays pretty consistent. Because of that, most dining tables are 28 to 30 inches high from floor to table surface. This is the most common height and the one you will find the most sizes and styles.
Counter-Height Dining Tables
This informal dining table is often constructed to be roughly as high as a kitchen countertop, which is usually about 36 inches high. These tables come in handy in informal eating areas where there isn't a separate dining room.
These tables typically stand at 42 inches high and are designed to seat two to six diners. They are mostly seen in a breakfast nook or small apartment dining area and can give your space a relaxed cafe or pub feel.
You Have Your New Dining Table. Now What?
Now, this is the exciting part of getting ready for your party. Once you find the dining room table that fits your personality, and space, you get to start setting everything up. There are a few things to consider as you design your space.
We often think about rugs in living areas and bedrooms, but a rug in the dining area is your first piece of artwork you should place. The rug will be the one piece that pulls everything together. So, consider the “Style” of table you chose and keep that style in mind as you look for your rug. You should also always ask a “Rug Expert” about the quality of rugs available and the different styles. As a direct importer, Bob Mills Rug Gallery offers handmade rugs 50% off, and we always have inventory in stock to match all sizes and styles. When choosing a size, make sure there is a 24” clearance on both sides of your dining table for balance.
Make sure your light fixture relates to the dining room table, not the room itself—in terms of size, shape, and style. Keep in mind that the right lighting will add to the style of the room and create an environment and mood that you and your guests can enjoy.
Adding Your Personal Touch
Whether for a special gathering or just for every day, adding your personal touch to your new dining room is the MOST important part of making this new space all your own. This is where all rules go out the door! Let your personality lead. Don’t be afraid to mix styles and colors. You can include mismatched place settings, modern glass vases, candles, flowers, and more.
Start Making Memories
This 2021, bring your family and friends together because the BEST memories are made around the dining room table. Whether you need a dining room set to accommodate 12 or a table just for four, today’s options include thousands of sizes and styles. Take some time now by talking with a sales host at Bob Mills Furniture and let them guide you. From traditional to modern...start making memories today. Come see our expansive selection of dining room sets at BobMillsFurniture.com.