Dining tables for the kitchen: a variety of options and tips for choosing

The dining table is not just a fixture for a meal, it is a place where the whole family gathers or greets guests. It can be the center of a room, an attention-grabbing feature, or a subtle detail. In any case, when choosing a table, you should be aware of the key characteristics that you need to pay attention to when buying.

The kitchen table must be durable and comfortable. The countertop space should be enough to comfortably accommodate household members, but the furniture should not clutter up the kitchen. The surface must be moisture resistant, made of materials permitted for contact with food. It is important that it is stable. The appearance should to be in harmony with the general style of the interior of the kitchen or dining room, to be combined in colors.

In addition to the traditional table, there is a folding model that folds like a book. It looks like a pedestal, and if necessary, tabletops are raised, which are installed on retractable supports.

Folding table is a structure without legs, one of its sides is screwed to the wall or window sill. When the need arises, the table top rises and rests on a retractable leg. The advantages of such furniture are its functionality and ergonomics, but it is designed for 2-3 people.

Similar to the folding wall table. Both of them, with their rectangular design, resemble a bar counter. However, the wall-mounted version is firmly fixed to the wall and has no legs. Visually, it represents a rectangle sticking out of the wall.

At first glance, the transforming table seems small, but thanks to a special mechanism, the size of the tabletop increases. To do this, the two halves of the tabletop are divorced on the sides, and another part appears between them. In other words, the circle suddenly turns into an oval after such manipulations, and the square version turns into a rectangular one. This model is especially convenient for one person or a small family who often have guests.

Sliding models include coffee table, which can turn into a dining room.

There is also movable table. It can be a familiar wooden or plastic model on furniture wheels. In addition, a compact table can be attached to a kitchen cabinet or headset by means of a guide and, with its help, move along the table or headset.

The modern version of the kitchen table - bar counter. It is a rectangular narrow table fixed to the wall. However, the bar counter can move away from one of the walls, stretching across the kitchen. This option is preferable for spacious rooms.

The classic shape of the table top is a rectangle. It can have sharp or rounded corners. The table is considered versatile because it can be pushed against the wall or pushed into the center of the kitchen. This option is appropriate in most interiors, it does not go out of fashion.

Square models usually purchased for small kitchens, as they are spacious and ergonomic. Like a rectangular one, such a table can be pushed into the middle of the kitchen or placed along the wall.

The capacity of the "circle" is larger than the capacity of a "rectangle" of the same size. However, the round version is designed for no more than 8 people, as it would otherwise be overly cumbersome. Another drawback is the inability to move the round model to the wall.

The oval table combines the advantages of "circle" and "rectangle". Such a table, if desired, can be leaned against the wall; it is spacious enough and well suited for small kitchens.

If you like a round table, but your kitchen is small, pay attention to the semicircular table. It can be leaned against the wall, but the model keeps the lines smooth.

Today you can also find triangular tables with rounded corners. They look original, especially in modern interiors. The model can be leaned against the wall or pulled out into the middle of the kitchen. However, in any location, such furniture will not be roomy.

The dimensions of the furniture should be such that it is comfortable for those who are sitting, while there is still free space in the kitchen. One person requires at least 60 cm in length and 40 cm in width. At the same time, there should be a place for common dishes in the center of the table.

The standard width of the kitchen table is 80-85 cm. It is not worth purchasing a table about 100 cm wide, even if the size of the kitchen allows it. It will be uncomfortable to be behind such a model. A tabletop less than 80 cm wide is also an unfortunate option, it will be cramped at the table.

The length of the furniture is selected taking into account the number of people sitting and the dimensions of the room. In addition, the dimensions depend on the shape of the table. So, a family of 4-6 people will fit behind a rectangular version 150 * 90 cm, but provided that the table is not set against the wall. A family of 4 requires a round table with a diameter of 100 cm.For 6 people, it is recommended to purchase wider furniture, with a diameter of up to 130 cm.For a large company of 8 people, it is more convenient to use a rectangular or oval table 210 * 100 cm.

When trying to get more people to sit at the table, it is important to remember that there should be at least 40 cm between the chairs. Otherwise, those eating at the table will bump each other with their elbows and cause inconvenience to neighbors, getting up from the table. Around the table when seating people should remain about 80-100 cm.

Let's take a look at the most common materials used to make dining tables.

The wood model is a classic that has not been influenced by time and fashion. They are distinguished by a noble appearance and, depending on the design features, will harmoniously fit into any interior. Wooden models are characterized by impact resistance, long service life.

From these breeds, durable, attractive tables are obtained, however, their cost is quite high. Soft species include pine, willow, alder. Models from these materials are somewhat inferior in quality to counterparts from oak or larch.

The disadvantage of wooden tables is considered heavy weight, the need for special care of the product, flammability, high cost.

An environmentally friendly material that combines lightness and strength. Wicker rattan furniture looks especially good in a country house, on open verandas, as well as in an eco-style interior.

Despite the apparent fragility, the glass model is characterized by strength, since it is made of tempered laminated glass. The material is different impact resistance and durability, and even in the event of a breakdown, it will not fly away with hundreds of traumatic fragments on the sides.

Thanks to its transparency, the glass table does not clutter up the kitchen, therefore suitable for small spaces... As a rule, glass tables are distinguished by their laconic design and have metal legs.

Chipboard is wood shavings that are pressed. The result is a material that imitates boards. Modern technologies make it possible to achieve an attractive appearance and provide high moisture resistance, but this option will still be less strong and durable than a solid wood model.

MDF also imitates wood surfaces as it is made from wood fibers. The surface of the table is veneered, which provides higher strength, moisture resistance and aesthetic appeal. The advantage of chipboard and MDF tables is affordability, prevalence in stores, light weight.

Modern plastic dining tables have nothing to do with the products that can sometimes be seen in street cafes and fast food outlets. Plastic models for the home are more attractive, durable. Thanks to modern technologies, they are resistant to moisture and environmental influences, and are easy to clean. Today, such tables can be of any shape, they will be made in various versions and even with photo printing on the surface of the table top.

Tables with stone countertops look aristocratic and respectable, invariably becoming the center of the kitchen. However, such products are suitable only for spacious rooms. The basis of the product is an artificial stone that does not have radioactive radiation, is lighter and easier to maintain, unlike natural stone. Usually, the stone table top is combined with metal or wooden legs.

The appearance of the table also depends on the number of legs and their appearance.

• Round and oval models are usually equipped with one leg. Such furniture is stable and comfortable - the legs of those sitting do not bump into the legs of the table.

• The product on two legs is attractive in appearance, stable, but not very convenient to use. It is impossible to sit from the end of the table, since there are legs in this part.

• Round or triangular models usually have three legs. The table is stable, attractive in appearance, easy to use.

• The classic option is a table with four legs. Practicality, convenience, attractive appearance - it is not for nothing that such models are found on sale more often than others.

A table made of dark materials looks solid, but in small rooms it can look overly bulky.

If the interior style implies luxurious classics, the presence of antique interior items, then the best choice is a wooden model made of bog oak.

As a rule, the model is matched to the overall color scheme of the kitchen, or they opt for darker shades of the table and chairs. In this case, the latter become the accents of the kitchen, forming contrasting combinations with the rest of the shades.

It must be combined with the color scheme of the kitchen. The same pattern looks good on the countertop and the kitchen backsplash.

• White tables help to add airiness and lightness to the space.
• Models with black countertops look stylish and unusual, but are suitable for spacious, well-lit rooms.
• Yellow, psychologists say, improves mood and appetite. But too bright a tone will tire, so preference should be given to golden shades or ocher color models.
• The green table is also associated with vitality, vitality. Depending on the design, it will be appropriate in a classic, modern interior, in the Art Nouveau style.
• Brown is considered neutral, but in the dining area it is better to combine it with white or pastel shades.
• A pink tint will add harmony, light, lightness to the room. But on condition that these are light muted colors. Such furniture looks especially attractive in Provence, Art Nouveau, Scandinavian interiors.
• The blue color of the table top soothes and relaxes. Suitable for themed marine cuisines, Mediterranean interiors. It goes especially well with white, beige, pastel colors and red details.

For calm, modern or classic interiors, choose a table in the same style. As a rule, these are expensive spectacular models that attract attention, or laconic and easy-to-finish products. In the first case, the presence of carved legs, inlay, stained glass inserts is permissible.

For avant-garde or modern interiors, choose tables with chrome or shiny surfaces, curved legs, unusual shapes and vibrant colors. Materials - plastic, metal, wood. Despite the possible pretentiousness of such models, the tables differ in functionality.

The Provence style is characterized by a combination of deliberate simplicity and even rudeness with grace. The forms are mostly simple. Cracks, aged surfaces become the "highlight".

A kitchen table in a Scandinavian style is cold shades (for example, bleached wood), functionality, dimensions, stability. They have no fittings or distracting details. The most suitable shapes are rectangle, square or U-shaped model.

When choosing a table, you should take into account the dimensions of the kitchen and the number of people sitting at it.If you have a small family, there is no point in purchasing a bulky table - it will be uncomfortable at it. And in the event that guests often come, it makes sense to consider the option of buying a folding or sliding analogue.

For a small kitchen, you can choose a folding or transforming table. A transparent glass or plastic table is also suitable for a small apartment. It will be roomy, but visually it will not clutter up the kitchen.

For a spacious kitchen or dining room, you can choose almost any kind of table. Do not give preference to a model that is too small - it will simply get lost in space.

Polish companies produce tables according to European standards, take into account fashion trends, but at the same time do not inflate prices. Thanks to this, tables from Poland please with quality, stylish appearance and pleasant value.

Models from Germany are strength, durability and thoughtfulness of every detail. Naturally, high quality and functionality cannot come at a low cost.

Chinese and domestic tables today they can compete with European brands. However, provided that the cost of the table is not ridiculously low. You cannot get a quality item for an unreasonably low price.

For a large kitchen in a classic design, the option with a stone countertop, made according to the principle of a bar counter, turned out to be optimal. Expensive materials and an unusual shape of the countertop attract attention and bring a touch of originality to this solid interior.

A modern and bright kitchen, the leading colors of which are light green and white. Please note that the table in this interior is white, and the chairs are light green, but nevertheless they make up a single composition.

The original model, which is the center of this interior. The table top made of knocked-down boards emphasizes eco-style, and the snow-white legs are combined with furniture and walls. It is thanks to them that even such a massive table does not look heavy and bulky.

A perfect illustration of a table setting in a small kitchen in a modern interior. The oval shape and glass top visually expand the space, and the rich green color of the chairs is "friendly" with the pattern on the table top. Refreshing and stylish.

Even a small area can be turned into a cozy and functional corner. A small round table and a corner bench along the walls are reminiscent of pretty verandas somewhere in France. The effect is enhanced by natural wood surfaces and striped textile prints.

How to choose a kitchen table, see below.