Design Post | Dining Tables

dwell

Jul 27

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It’s been all about tables in my world, lately. Dining tables, foyer tables, end tables, night stands, drinks tables, picnic tables. Such crucial items, they are, for our living well. Necessary for letting us get on with experiencing moments of nourishment, of rest, and of welcome, instead of nervously fidgeting over the gaps where a table should be, wondering, again, where to set our food, our drink, our phone, our book, our lamps.

As you might know by experience, not all tables are created equal, and if you’re in the market for a well made, new-to-you dining table, like a reader said she is, where should you even begin to look?

I can help.

First off, listen. Find out what your needs are. What size is best for your space? How many people do you need to seat? What design suits your space best? (Trestle or pedestal are best for banquettes and benches.) What style do you like? Farmhouse? Mid-century modern? Contemporary?

After you’ve decided on the size, the design, and the style, think about age. Maybe you’re drawn to vintage and antique pieces that have patina and history on their surface. Chairish is a great site to find such treasures, as are Etsy and Ebay. 1stdibs is one place to look if you want a piece with pedigree. Keep your eyes open at local estate sales, moving sales, and auctions as well.

Fun story: I found this antique table recently, and it’s now on its way to serve as a dining table in a Montana guest house. My client was immediately drawn to it, not knowing exactly why. Then, she went back to one of her long-time dining room inspiration images and there in the photo was a very similar table (scroll through to see the full view). Love how things that are meant to be find their right home! (We paired it with these chairs).

Perhaps an older table isn’t for you. Maybe you prefer the crisp perfection and polish of new. Look for handcrafted pieces, made from native woods. Metal smiths can create amazing bases for glass or stone tops, if other-than-wood is what you’re after. Low cost, high production furniture is often not made well, so my advice is always, always, know the maker (or at least the reputation of the seller/curator) and pay for quality.

Below is a round-up of several dining tables for you to consider. Photos are clickable links to sources.

Newly Crafted

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Vintage/Antique

Oh, yes. The photo of the dining table there at the top of this post? It’s a custom piece in-the-works I designed for a client. The top and base are white oak, the pedestal is a rear axel half from a 1930’s Ford, with its original patina intact.