Mistake To Avoid When Choosing A Dining Table

Choosing a dining table may seem simple, but it's much more than just furniture. Tt’s the centerpiece of your dining space. With over 15 years of experience designing dining areas, I’ve seen common mistakes that lead to discomfort and style clashes. Here’s what to avoid to ensure your dining room table looks great and functions well.

Top Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Dining Table (From an Interior Designer with 15+ Years of Experience)

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Choosing the Wrong Size for Your Space

One of the biggest mistakes I see is choosing a table that’s too large for your space. In small rooms (under 200 sq ft), a table that’s too big can make the space feel cramped and uninviting. On the flip side, a table that’s too small can disrupt the balance and functionality of the room.

Pro Tip: Always measure your space before purchasing. Allow at least 36 inches of clearance around the table for comfortable movement.  But aim for 42–48 inches when possible for optimal flow. For larger rooms, don’t go overboard; your table should take up no more than 60% of the room’s width.

Size Guide:

• Round tables (36-48 inches in diameter) seat 4 comfortably.
• A 60-inch round table seats 6 people.
• A standard rectangular table (72 inches long by 36-42 inches wide) seats 6.
• A 96-inch rectangular table accommodates 8, while a 120-inch table seats 10.

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Falling for Low-Quality Materials (Like MDF and Thin Veneers)

Not all tables are created equal. Many budget-friendly options rely on engineered wood like MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) or HDF (High-Density Fiberboard), which may look appealing at first, but they are prone to warping, chipping, and lack the durability and beauty of solid wood or marble.

Why We Don’t Sell MDF or HDF: We avoid MDF and HDF because these materials often don’t stand the test of time. They can absorb moisture and cause structural issues, and they just don’t have the natural appeal or longevity of high-quality materials. Instead, we only use materials like solid wood, marble, and high-grade metal to ensure every piece is crafted to last.

💡Pro Tip: Invest in quality materials like solid oak, walnut, or marble. While they may require more maintenance, they provide lasting beauty, durability, and character — things that MDF and HDF simply can't offer.

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Ignoring Proportion and Room Shape

Shape matters. A lot.

Rectangular tables are my default choice for most spaces because they are practical and functional. However, they can feel a bit corporate in certain settings. To soften the look, I often recommend adding rounded corners for a more approachable feel.

Round tables are perfect for promoting conversation. I once used one in a client’s breakfast nook, and the family said it dramatically improved their morning interactions. The only downside is that they take up more space and aren’t ideal for larger groups.

Oval tables offer the best of both worlds. They have the length of rectangular tables, but with softer edges that encourage better interaction. They also work great in tricky room layouts and awkward spaces, which I’ve found helpful in many of my designs.

💡Pro Tip: Don’t size for the exception! It’s better to have a table that’s comfortable for everyday use and then rent extra tables for those few big gatherings. Consider extendable tables for flexibility, but ensure the extension mechanism is sturdy and easy to use.

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Not Thinking About Seating Before You Buy

It’s easy to focus only on the table, but chairs are just as important for comfort and space planning. Many people make the mistake of buying a table and then scrambling to find chairs that fit. The key is to consider seating before the table.

💡Pro Tip: Allow at least 24 inches which is about 65 centremeters per person for comfortable seating. Be mindful of chair height — not all chairs will work with all tables. If you’re tight on space, opt for armless chairs to allow for easier movement and more seating flexibility.

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Ignoring Your Maintenance Needs

🛠️ Why Maintenance Matters

• Protects your investment and extends the table’s lifespan
• Maintains the finish and appearance over time
• Prevents everyday damage like scratches, stains, and heat marks
• Keeps your dining space hygienic and family-friendly

Wood (Oak, Walnut, Mango, etc.)

• Clean with a damp soft cloth using mild soap and water
• Wipe with the grain and never leave water sitting on the surface
• Polish with wood conditioner or beeswax every few months
• Use placemats and coasters to prevent scratches, heat damage, and rings
• Avoid direct sunlight to prevent warping and fading

Natural Marble & Granite

• Seal the surface regularly (every 6–12 months) to prevent staining and etching
• Clean with pH-neutral cleaners — never use vinegar or bleach
• Wipe up spills immediately (especially acidic foods like wine or lemon juice)
• Avoid abrasive cloths or scouring pads
• Use trivets under hot dishes to prevent thermal shock

Glass

• Wipe daily with a vinegar-water solution or a streak-free glass cleaner
• Use a lint-free cloth or newspaper for best results
• Avoid harsh scrubbing to prevent micro-scratches
• Great for showing off a rug — but more prone to smudges and fingerprints
• Use table runners or pads to protect against chips or cracks

Metal (Steel, Iron, Aluminum)

• Dust regularly and clean with a damp cloth
• Dry completely to prevent rust, especially on uncoated or vintage pieces
• Use protective sprays or wax polish to maintain the finish
• Avoid acidic cleaners that could corrode the metal

Sintered Stone & Ceramic Marble-Effect Tables

• Non-porous and stain-resistant — no sealing needed
• Clean with warm water and mild detergent
• Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive sponges
• Use trivets or placemats under very hot items
• Wipe spills promptly just to keep the surface looking fresh
• Excellent for families, pet owners, or open-plan homes with heavy usage

🔁 Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference

• Use coasters, placemats, and heat-resistant pads daily
• Wipe down the table after every meal
• Train kids to avoid dragging items across the surface
• Rotate decorative centerpieces occasionally to avoid uneven wear
• Avoid placing heavy items directly on polished or delicate finishes

💡 Pro Tip: Unlike natural marble, sintered stone won’t etch from lemon juice or red wine — making it a top choice for worry-free elegance.

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Poor Planning in Open-Plan Layouts

Open-plan living spaces are fantastic, but they come with their own challenges. One common mistake is placing the dining table in the middle of a high-traffic area, which disrupts the flow of the space and causes frustration for the people moving through it.

💡Pro Tip: Offset the dining area from main traffic paths to ensure a clear flow. Use an area rug to help define the dining zone — the rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond the table’s edges to ensure chairs don’t get caught when pulled out.

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Choosing the Wrong Material for Your Dining Table

The material of your dining table can transform your space. Choosing the wrong one can clash with your décor or create more maintenance work than you'd like.

For Modern Interiors: Opt for sleek, minimal designs like a glass top with a chrome base or a smooth wooden table. I often recommend a Parsons-style walnut table for a contemporary yet warm feel.

For Traditional Interiors: Tables with turned legs or carved details add timeless character. A mahogany pedestal table can perfectly complement a colonial-style home, creating a classic, sophisticated look.

For Minimalist Designs: Simplicity is key. Concrete tables with thin metal legs are a great choice for a clean, understated aesthetic that makes a strong statement without overpowering the space.

How Materials Influence Your Dining Space:

• Wood adds warmth and texture but requires regular maintenance. A raw-edge walnut table, for example, can elevate a modern space, but it needs care to avoid wear and tear.
• Marble offers elegance but demands upkeep. If not sealed properly, it can stain easily — I've seen this happen with Carrara marble tables.
• Glass is perfect for smaller spaces, reflecting light and creating openness. However, it shows fingerprints and needs frequent cleaning. It’s versatile and works with almost any style.
• Sintered Stone is ideal for those seeking a perfect balance between style and low maintenance

💡Pro Tip: Consider the level of maintenance each material requires and how it aligns with your lifestyle. Wood is durable and warm, marble is luxurious but high-maintenance, and glass suits a modern style but demands constant care.

Bonus Mistake: Thinking All Tables Are the Same

The biggest mistake of all is assuming there’s a one-size-fits-all solution for dining tables. The best table for your space depends on your room layout, lifestyle, and design preferences.

💡 Pro Tip: Consider how you’ll use the table day-to-day, your design style, and the space you’re working with. There’s no universal answer, but there is a perfect dining table for you.

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Final Thought:

The perfect dining table isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about how it fits with your space, your lifestyle, and your home’s rhythm. Avoid these common mistakes, keep the practical tips in mind, and you’ll end up with a table that doesn’t just look great but becomes the heart of your home.

Check out below for our collection of dining table