I’m a believer in the dining room table.  Let me explain.  I believe that a dining table has the power to unite; that we owe it to ourselves as families, couples, as roommates, to meet at the table and enjoy a communal experience.  Whether you prefer rectangular or round dining tables, your table is a gathering place capable of transforming an entire way of living.  With such importance placed on a single piece of furniture, it’s essential you choose wisely.  Here are five of the best for the year just begun:

1. The transparent choice – Often associated with modern décor, glass-top tables are actually highly functional for any style of home.  A glass dining table looks great and is a breeze to clean, regardless of what get spilled on it.  Glass tables aren’t the most durable choice, but they’re virtually clash-proof and are likely to look terrific no matter your surroundings.
2. The kid-friendly choice – You hear them all the time – horror stories about parents who have to rush to the emergency room after their child crashes into the dining room table.  Investing in a round dining table virtually ensures that this will never happen to you.  In addition to being safe, round tables save space and lend themselves to intimate conversation among diners.  For those who don’t need an overly large table, this is a great choice.
3. The versatile choice – As a lad, I can recall many a night when my mum asked me to open up the table and grab extra chairs for our guests.  The transitional drop-leaf table is a classic piece of furniture that can be extended simply by lifting its edges.  Perfect for dining spaces both small and large, this is a terrific choice for anyone planning to do lots of entertaining.
4. The chef’s choice – Perhaps the most non-traditional piece on this list, the butcher block table is my personal favourite for in-kitchen dining areas.  Unlike those topped with glass, butcher block tables can be used for preparing and eating meals.  While not the most portable choice, these tables look terrific in country kitchens and have just enough charm to put anyone at ease.
5. The space-saving choice – Conventional wisdom will give you a dining table 140cm in height or lower.  While this allows for comfortable sitting, it also means that you need the space for a non-integrated dining area.  A counter-height or bar table, on the other hand, can extend from your counter and is a real space-saver for those living in small places.  Popular in bachelor pads and urban flats, these dining bars are perfect for transitioning from dinner to that after-meal glass of wine.

What’s your dining table profile?  Tell us about your eating space in the comments below!

Did you know?

The recommended thickness for butcher block is 1.5 inches.

-Jeff O.

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