Chairs and tables for the kitchen: types and choices

Even a small kitchen is hard to imagine without a dining table and chairs. Let's figure out what they can be, how to choose the right option and arrange it most effectively in the kitchen.

A dining group is understood as a set of pieces of furniture necessary for eating. First of all, this is a dining table and chairs. Chairs can be replaced with a stool, benches, kitchen couches, ottomans, and so on. But in general, it is always a table and something on which you can sit at this very table.

The dining table and chairs can be purchased as a set or purchased separately. In the latter version, there is nothing reprehensible, the main thing is to choose the items of the dining group as harmoniously as possible. Moreover, modern design options imply the use of a table and chairs not included, support the idea of ​​combining different materials. The ready-made dining set remains a classic.

Tables of a round or rectangular shape are considered traditional. They are spacious and versatile. In large rooms, the table can be placed in the center, in more compact kitchens it can be moved up to a wall or in a corner. Depending on the design, "squares" and "rectangles" will fit into a different room design.

The round model is associated with coziness and home warmth. Another feature of such a table is that it is roomy. The same number of people sit at a round table as at a rectangular (square) table of the same size. However, the round version should not be too large, so that the diameter does not exceed 100 cm. Otherwise, it will be uncomfortable for those sitting at the table, and the dishes standing in the center of the table will have to stretch. As a rule, round tables are designed for a maximum of 8 people.

A round table, especially one on one leg, visually expands the space. However, it will not work to move it to the wall, or to use the "dead zone" in the corner, pushing furniture there. The advantage of round models is the absence of corners in it, which is important for families with small children.

The semicircular version combines the advantages of the round and rectangular models. It combines a streamlined shape and lack of sharp corners, and can also be pulled close to the wall. When viewed from above, such a table has the shape of a semicircle.

The oval table is also a classic. It looks stylish and respectable.

Corner tables are designed for small kitchens and small families. They are located in the corner of the kitchen, and the shape of the countertop resembles a triangle. This table can accommodate no more than 2-3 people. It is worth noting the inconvenience associated with the fact that people at the table are forced to look at the wall.

For small rooms, manufacturers offer a variety of options for transforming tables. One of them is a folding table-book. The table top can be folded in the manner of a book, and if necessary, the folding parts are raised and rest on the retractable legs.

The extendable table has a table top that can increase in diameter. This is possible due to the fact that the table can be moved apart, after which additional compartments slide out. As a rule, the size of the latter is from 40 to 70 cm, the quantity is 1-4.

The side table is a rectangular version, built into the wall and stretching along it. It is small in size, and those who are seated usually look at the wall. For small rooms, you can organize a table like a bar counter. With one side it rests on the wall, and the other part rests on the support.

The most compact model, perhaps, can be considered a folding table against the wall, organized according to the principle of tables on trains. When not needed, the table is lowered to the side of the wall. Before a meal - rises and sets in the desired position.

From the types and designs of tables, let's move on to an overview of the varieties of chairs. A stool is considered compact and democratic. It is a small bench or pedestal on wooden or metal supports and a seat. There are completely plastic models. The advantage of the stool is its ergonomics, low weight, the ability to completely slide under the table, and sometimes fold the stools one on top of the other.

A more popular option is the classic backrest chairs. They look noble and easy to use. The height of the backrest can be from 36 to 81 cm. The disadvantage of chairs for a small kitchen is that they require free space, they cannot be pushed under the table. However, modern manufacturers are solving this problem too - folding chairs with a back have appeared on sale. If there is no space in the kitchen, then they can be folded and taken out, for example, in a closet in another room, on a loggia.

The materials for the chairs are plastic, metal, wood, which explains the wide price range for products.

If there is a bar counter as a table in the kitchen (or it performs an independent function), then special bar stools are needed for it. Their distinctive feature is a higher height than that of classic models. Bar stools look stylish, comfortable and practical. It is recommended to choose models with a back, even better - bar half-chairs. They have a higher backrest for comfortable operation.

Instead of chairs and a stool, you can opt for a small kitchen sofa. The standard size is 80 cm long and 40 cm wide. However, variations are possible. For comfortable use, choose models without armrests. Or with one armrest, if this side of the sofa will move to the wall. Modern models have internal drawers in which you can store kitchen textiles and dishes.

The size of the kitchen table is determined by the number of people sitting at it. The minimum width at the table required for one person is 60 cm. The standard width is 60-80 cm. At the table, which is about 100 cm wide, it is uncomfortable to be seated, and you will have to reach for the dishes in the center of the table.

When choosing chairs, consider the size of the table. Usually, when buying ready-made sets, there is no need to measure the height of the furniture, since all elements of the dining group correspond to each other.

With a table height of 72-78 cm, the height of the chair should be at least 42-48 cm from the floor. The size of the seat is at least 36 cm. There must be a space of at least 52 cm between the legs. Otherwise, it will be uncomfortable for the seated person to put his feet.

You cannot place the chairs at the table tightly to each other. There should be at least 40-50 cm between them. And around the table with people sitting at it - at least 70-100 cm of free space.

For greater ease of use, many manufacturers give the back of the chair a slight curvature. These products also have their own standards. So, with a backrest height of up to 32 cm, a backrest curvature radius of up to 22 cm is allowed.With a backrest height over 32 cm, this radius can reach 45 cm.

The bar counter can have a height of 86 to 130 cm. As is the case with the dining table and chairs, the height of the latter should be 30 cm lower than the height of the table.

Consider the most popular options for materials for making kitchen tables.

A wooden table is always noble, respectable and elegant. Such products can be made from hard (oak, ash, elm, larch) or soft (pine, willow, alder, birch) wood species. The former are distinguished by their greater density, strength and durability, and therefore have a higher cost.

Anyway a table made of natural wood is a purchase for many years, but the product periodically needs restorationupdating the varnish layer. We must not forget that wood is a highly flammable material; it should not be exposed to prolonged exposure to moisture and high temperatures.

This variety is not the name of a specific material. It involves the use of chipboard, chipboard or MDF for the manufacture of tables. In short, these are wood chips and fibers that are pressed, after which they acquire the desired shape. The countertops of such products can be plastic or covered with veneer that imitates a woody surface. These products have gained popularity due to the variety of models, low weight and affordability.

Modern material. It should be noted that special tempered glass is used for the production of countertops. It is not afraid of blows and other mechanical damage, and even if such a product breaks, it will not fly off in hundreds of small fragments.

Glass tables look stylish and original and, even with large sizes, do not clutter up the space.

Inexpensive, affordable and easy to clean material. Plastic products can be of various shapes and sizes. Most often, chairs are made of plastic, and their only drawback is weight restrictions. However, modern manufacturers tend to level it by using a more durable support, for example, a metal frame.

Plastic models can be painted not only in the most incredible colors and their combinations, but also have a transparent surface.

Stone countertops are combined with metal or wood supports. Only artificial stone is used, since it does not have a radioactive background, is less porous than its natural analogue, has less weight and cost.

Today, kitchen furniture is often combined, that is, made of several materials at once. Popular combinations include metal with plastic, glass, wood, wood with glass. Chairs, stools and sofas usually have soft upholstery, the upper part of which is fabric, leatherette, leather.

Undoubtedly the most respectable and durable material for upholstery will be genuine leather... However, due to its high cost, one can consider more affordable analogues - eco-leather or leatherette. The first option is preferable because it has more similarity to natural leather and has a longer service life.

Another material option for dining group furniture is rattan. This is an environmentally friendly material, similar in its properties and appearance to thin twigs, vines. Rattan furniture will harmoniously fit into the design of a country veranda, as well as a kitchen in the style of a ranch, Provence. The advantage of furniture is elegance, light weight, environmental friendliness.

The most durable chairs are based on a metal frame. However, the cost of such products cannot be low. Since metal is a hard and cool option, a softer seat, upholstery, is imperative.

The design of the dining group is determined by the style of the interior of the kitchen or dining room. An oval or rectangular table made of wood is considered a classic. Simple geometric shapes should be present, decor on furniture legs, chair backs is required. Acceptable - forged legs of tables and chairs, elements on the backs.

For rustic country-style interiors, a small table made of wood in the shape of a circle or square will be optimal. It needs to be supplemented with chairs with fabric upholstery or a small sofa.

Bright plastic models are a sign of modern and art styles. They can become both a kitchen accent and harmoniously combined with bright walls and a set.

Naturalness and functionality are characteristic of the Scandinavian style. The best solution is a simple wooden table with a rectangular, round or oval shape on legs that are not decorated. Typical color is white, pastel colors.

High-tech and minimalist interiors can be assembled using a transparent table and chairs made of plastic or metal. As an option for such a kitchen - a table along the wall or a bar counter.

If you want to convey an oriental flavor, pay attention to the low oval and round tables made of wood. Carved elements on the legs are welcome. As a place for a seat - fabric sofas, poufs, trestle beds.

Chairs and table in monochrome or white are suitable for most interiors. You can choose a white table for light soothing shades. Chairs - to match the table or slightly darker / lighter.

A fashionable design option is a table with a photo print, combined with a kitchen apron pattern. A plastic table can be combined with chairs made of the same material, plain or colored. When choosing the latter, make sure that the color of the chairs falls within the range of patterns on the tabletop and apron of the headset.

The ranking of the best manufacturers of dining furniture is usually led by Italian and German manufacturers. Unrivaled quality, premium materials and contemporary designs are the hallmarks of their products. By the way, about design - exactly italian designers dictate furniture fashion to the whole world. Naturally, such products are quite expensive.

Slightly inferior to such products Belarusian furniture for kitchen. Although in design, these manufacturers, of course, lag behind their Italian counterparts. The production is based on classic groups for a small number of people. Typically, this is a chair and 4 chairs. However, given the dimensions of standard domestic apartments, this is a very convenient option. Similar options are produced by Russia.

Among the products of domestic production, many worthy options have also appeared (Yaroslavl furniture factory, Krasnodar company Gold, brand "Bratsk" other).

China supplies mainly sets from the economy class series. Despite this, it is important to understand that a suspiciously low price is one of the low quality signals. You should be especially careful when buying plastic models.

When choosing, you should be guided by the dimensions of the room, its style. For a room that is too elongated, like a pencil case, it is recommended to select a square model that visually smoothes the corners. A round version will look harmonious in a square kitchen. If you have a small family, but often have guests, it makes sense to consider a folding or sliding option. When buying sliding models, you should push them apart and make sure that the distance between the table and chair is still within the norm.

When choosing bar stools, consider the height of the backrest. Too low will not support the back of the seated person, but, on the contrary, literally dig into the lower back. You can't sit on such a chair for a long time. A semi-chair with a higher back is preferable. Models with 4 legs are considered the most reliable. There are options with two and one leg.

If you plan to purchase a sofa for the kitchen, preference should be given to models with legs. It will be more convenient to clean the floor under the sofa. Before buying, you must definitely sit on a chair at the table. Evaluate whether they are suitable in height, whether it is comfortable to sit on chairs. Remember that older people and children tend to slip off beautiful plastic models.

There are 3 main options for the location of the dining area in the kitchen: along the wall, in the center of the room and by the window. A table of any configuration can be placed near the window, such a layout will be especially successful if a beautiful view opens up from the window. If this part of the wall is not wide, or there is a balcony door, then it is much more rational to place the table with its end to the window. The design option is a window sill table, when the window sill is lengthened and strengthened, turning it into a table top.

For a small kitchen, you can choose the option of a bar counter, and so that the wall along which the table is located does not look boring, hang pictures on it. The advantage of such a layout is ergonomics, the ability to free the area by the window. However, as already mentioned, many people find it uncomfortable to “rest” their gaze on the wall.

Light shades will help to visually increase the space. A table with a glass top, as well as plastic counterparts with a mirrored surface, rubbed to a shine, can also cope with this task.

A simple, modern and very functional design for a small kitchen. This dining group is not a set, but it looks harmonious. The table and chairs are united by an abstract form and material of manufacture. As for the colors, they are somewhat different - these are 2 close colors and several shades within the same color. To make the dining group the center of the kitchen composition allows its location, as well as spot illumination of the table with hanging lampshades.

If a small table and chairs seem to be something boring, and the interior itself is made in modern, high-tech or loft style, then you can try to combine a traditional square table with different chairs. They differ in size, color, material of manufacture. Some closeness can be traced only in the similarity of the shapes of the chairs.

The elegant design of the living-dining room is best complemented by the snow-white round table. Light gray chairs help to avoid the monotony and hospital atmosphere.

Refined, respectable, but at the same time relaxed interior with a glass rectangular table. It is combined with armchairs, some of which are upholstered in gray fabric, some in black leather. A rug under the table and a futuristic-looking lamp on a cord above the dining group allow you to add accents.

Classic dining room interior with stylish modern touches. The traditional design wooden table and chairs are intertwined with modern white armchairs. White color is "supported" by upholstery of chairs, carpet. A rare chest of drawers makes the room even more sophisticated and eclectic.

A variation of a stylish modern dining room in cool shades of gray. The mirrored surface of the glass table resonates with mirrored cabinets. By the way, this is a great technique that will visually increase the space.

A good example of the fact that minimalism can be bright and diverse. The dining group consists of an unusual rectangular table and black and white leather chairs. Pictures on the walls and hanging lamps are responsible for the color in this interior.

Living-dining room in a modern style requires unusual but practical solutions. The dining group of a dark oval table and classic matching chairs fits perfectly into this spacious room. The dark shade of the kitchen furniture "supports" the black and white color scheme of the interior.

A perfect example of an amazing combination of different-textured furniture within one dining group. A classic wooden table in the interior is responsible for good quality, harmony, comfort. And white plastic chairs with metal elements bring lightness, add space. They also work well with turquoise accessories.

Laconic benches instead of chairs are not only practical, but also very modern. The dining group has become the highlight of the interior. And the unconventional look at the modern kitchen was also conveyed through the combination of benches and chairs.

Dining group for dining in a classic style. Distinctive elements - natural wood, laconic forms, many decorative elements on chairs, table legs. The interior is complemented by a luxurious carpet and a chandelier.

Another version of the classics, but less solemn, with a touch of antiquity. If the previous dining room could previously belong to a high-ranking nobleman and be located in the castle, then this example is a perfectly suitable option for a more modest country estate. In any case, both options look harmoniously in modern realities. In this example, all the same natural wood materials, exquisite chairs, some ornateness, decorative forms.

An overview of Ikea kitchen tables and chairs in the video below.