The kitchen is a special place for all family members. Here all the closest and dearest gather, holidays are celebrated, evenings are spent talking. Any owner wants this place to be ideally and comfortably furnished, so he wants to approach the issue of choosing furniture for the kitchen wisely, but when faced with this, it turns out that it is not so simple. In addition to the main kitchen set, the kitchen table plays an important role, because it is where all events are held and friends and relatives gather. How not to make a mistake with your choice, not to regret it, to remain satisfied and what to pay attention to is in this article.
When choosing a table for the kitchen, as a rule, they pay attention to the style of the interior, the size of the room, and, importantly, the cost of the product.
Choosing the size of the kitchen table
All family members must be seated at the table for meals.
For example, 60 cm of width and 40 cm of depth should be allocated for one person.
The minimum width of the product is 80-85 cm, and the length is selected depending on the size of the kitchen and how many people will use it.
Design project: Olga Nefedova
You shouldn’t choose a table with a width of more than 105 cm, even if you have a lot of free space.
But a table that is already 80 cm won’t work either, because there will be nowhere to put the dishes.
When choosing the size of the table, do not forget about its shape.
Thus, a rectangular model with parameters of 150 by 90 cm is perfect for a family of six people. For a family of up to eight people, it is better to take a product 200 by 110 cm, etc.
If the model is round, then everything is a little different: a small table with a diameter of 110 cm will fit four people perfectly, and with a diameter of 130 cm, five people will sit.
Recommended table height
When buying a table, you need to pay attention to the fact that it is comfortable to sit at, your knees are comfortable, and your legs can be stretched at least a little. As a rule, the standard and most comfortable height is 70-75 cm.
To determine the height that will be convenient for you specifically, use the formula: multiply height (cm) by the optimal height of the product (75 cm), and then divide it by the height, which is a guideline for manufacturers (165 cm).
Shape selection
Furniture manufacturers have been creating tables of various shapes for a long time.
Therefore, you can easily determine which kitchen table to choose.
Round
The round table is very popular because it is suitable for various interiors. This product looks beautiful, but it cannot be placed next to the wall.
The best option would be a round table with a diameter of 1.5 m.
Oval
Oval kitchen table - this modification looks sophisticated and elegant in the kitchen, plus it is safe.
Although oval pieces are usually associated with Baroque and Renaissance, this table can be combined with any style.
Square
A square table is an excellent solution for a simple and functional room.
The advantages of such a table are that it can be moved to one of the walls in the kitchen, and get by with one pair of legs.
Triangular
The triangular table looks original and beautiful.
Even if the overall decor in the room is modest, this table can become an interesting accent. However, it is not suitable for a large family.
The triangular shape is well suited for a coffee or tea table, which will become a delightful interior decoration.
Which models of dining tables are the most functional?
A folding table is an ergonomic, comfortable and stylish model that does not take up much space in the kitchen. This option is convenient because it allows you to save space in the room if there is no need for additional space. As soon as guests appear in the house, the dining table can be expanded in a matter of minutes, almost doubling the surface of its tabletop.
The model, equipped with a high-quality mechanism, unfolds in a maximum of three movements. In order for such a table to last as long as possible, its frame must be strong enough (the use of metal parts is encouraged).
The legs must also be massive and reliable to withstand additional load. Folding tables can have different shapes: oval, round, square, rectangular. Such models are made from plastic, wood, chipboard.
Extendable table - this model can be called a practical purchase for a small kitchen or living room. It looks like an ordinary classic table of a round, square or rectangular shape, which, if necessary, can be extended to increase the size of the tabletop.
Transformable table - the main feature of this model is that it can be increased not only in length, but also in width and height. If necessary, the table turns into a compact product that can easily fit into even the most modest-sized kitchen.
Such models are equipped with special devices that make operating the table very simple and easy. The main disadvantages of this model are its high cost, inconvenient positioning of the legs, some bulkiness and heaviness. However, the massiveness goes well with all classic interiors.
How to choose a kitchen table: choice of material
The kitchen table must be made of durable material that does not deteriorate due to the abundance of moisture.
At the moment, to create tables they use:
- Wood. Such products are distinguished by their high strength, long service life and reliability, and they also delight with a magnificent visual appearance. The shade and texture of the table depends on the type of wood. Models made from this material will look good with a classic design option.
- Rattan is another well-known material that, despite being weightless, is very durable and reliable. Such tables are covered with voluminous glass on top to maintain a wonderful visual appearance.
- Glass is a material that does not visually distract from the main accents and is not inferior to its analogues in terms of functions. Tempered triplex is used to form glass tables. The glass can be transparent or frosted, with an image, with photo printing, painted in a certain color. The legs can be made of any material, but metal ones are most suitable. Glass products are combined with minimalism and hi-tech.
- Laminated chipboard type is the most short-lived material. The surface can imitate any texture, but in a short time chips from mechanical defects and bubbles due to moisture appear on it.
- Stone is an ideal decoration for a large kitchen. These tables are durable, comfortable, and beautiful.
Material
Dining tables are divided according to materials into glass, wood, MDF, chipboard, and plastic.
Tree
Wood tables have never gone out of style. Wood, when properly processed, remains a popular material for furniture production. Wooden products can take shaped shapes, be decorated with carvings and ornaments.
Veneered material is more affordable than natural wood. Veneer, or a thin section of wood, is glued onto MDF. In appearance, a veneered product is difficult to distinguish from wood.
Expert opinion
Glavatskikh Inna Vladimirovna
Artist and interior designer
A table based on a slab, or an entire longitudinal cut of a tree, is gaining popularity.
The slab is sanded and coated with several layers of varnish. Then they are installed on a metal frame or wooden supports. Such a table, custom-made or made by yourself, will look like a unique masterpiece in a room with any style.
Glass
Glass tabletops are made of tempered material. Tempered glass is stronger than regular glass: it is difficult to scratch, but it can still be broken. If there is an active baby in the family, then it is better to refuse glass furniture.
Glass can be frosted, transparent, tinted, with photo printing, coated with colored film or painted with enamel.
The legs of such a table are usually metal with a chrome finish. Structures with metal supports are reliable, durable and look modern. Paint or spraying is applied to the metal. Such coatings protect the material from moisture penetration and rust formation.
Expert opinion
Glavatskikh Inna Vladimirovna
Artist and interior designer
Glass tables create the effect of expanding space.
Caring for them is simple: you need to wipe the surfaces with a dry cloth. To remove serious dirt, use a glass cleaner.
Natural and artificial stone
Countertops made of natural stone are unique in their design. They look aristocratic and respectable. Marble, granite, travertine, onyx, quartz agglomerate - these stones are reliable and durable. However, the heavy weight of a natural stone countertop requires increased reliability from the supporting frame.
Expert opinion
Glavatskikh Inna Vladimirovna
Artist and interior designer
The cost of natural stone is not affordable for everyone. Therefore, it is rarely used, mainly in individual projects.
Artificial stone has a huge selection of colors. The acrylic coating composition is monolithic and dense. The countertop made of artificial stone is unpretentious and can be restored. But the weight is also too heavy for the dining table.
Plastic models
A plastic table became popular about twenty years ago. This is not the thin propylene used for outdoor furniture, but durable polyurethane. This table has an attractive appearance and high performance.
Plastic can be shaped into different shapes and colors. Transforming tables made of white or black plastic look especially stylish in a modern kitchen. The tabletop is coated with a special varnish that protects the surface from damage.
Chipboard and MDF
Laminated chipboard tables are a budget option. They are not the most reliable. The advantages include the rich color schemes of the coating: from wood textures to plain matte and glossy colors.
MDF is a moisture-resistant material with a long service life. MDF is easy to sand and can be milled. Paint and varnish adheres well to it. Tables made of MDF in enamel do not absorb water. The paint can be matte, glossy, with a metallic effect in all possible shades.
If damaged, enamel tables can be restored by covering the surface with a new layer of paint.
Tables made of MDF and laminated chipboard are often equipped with drawers located under the tabletop. Drawers are especially relevant for a small kitchen. Cutlery and other kitchen utensils are stored in them.
Expert opinion
Glavatskikh Inna Vladimirovna
Artist and interior designer
For those who do not want to waste time selecting chairs for the kitchen table, it is better to opt for a ready-made dining set.
How many legs does a table have?
There are 4 common options:
- One leg as a central support structure is a simple and stable option. It is more comfortable to sit at such a table, because the risk of hitting the furniture legs is reduced.
- Two legs are not the best option, although visually it looks aesthetically pleasing and cozy. The huge disadvantage of such supports is that the legs will not have enough free space.
- Three legs are most often found in round models. This is the most convenient, functional and beautiful option.
- Four legs are a comfortable traditional option that suits everyone.
Style selection
You need to buy a table and chairs after the renovation of the room, when all the nuances of the interior are known.
Before deciding which table to choose for the kitchen, it is better to first develop a project for the future room.
Classic kitchens require wooden tables. Modern styles can be combined with a glass table and plastic chairs.
Choosing a color for the kitchen table
It’s good when the color scheme of the table matches the overall interior of the room.
Of course, you can choose a product that will differ in shade from the color of the kitchen.
There are many options, and to choose the right one, you should take into account the recommendations of designers.
White
A snow-white table is a modification made of wood or chipboard that looks great in a classic interior.
This option also suits Mediterranean, rustic and shabby chic styles. However, the surface of the product will have to be protected from dirt and scratches.
Brown
A brown table is a standard option, especially if the table is made of natural wood and covered with paint and varnish.
It looks solid and is suitable for a kitchen interior in a classic, country, rustic, or loft style.
It would also look good in Moroccan and Arabic styles.
Red
The red table is an original model that will highlight the kitchen.
A red dining table will decorate your room; it will fit perfectly into minimalist, hi-tech and loft interiors.
Black
The black table is a universal model that can fit into almost any interior.
An interesting option would be a table in black with gloss.
Color of kitchen furniture
The photo of the kitchen table shows that it should either match in color with the overall color scheme of the interior, or contrast with it.
In addition, you should choose chairs of appropriate colors to match it. Sometimes a dining table is chosen so that it harmonizes with only one specific detail of the room.
It is recommended to buy a kitchen table for a small kitchen in light colors. Light furniture has the ability to visually expand the space.
Choosing a place in the kitchen for the table
In the kitchen, the table is placed opposite the work area - the wall where the kitchen unit is located. But this option is not suitable for narrow, long and small rooms.
Here, such solutions lead to a loss of ergonomics of the entire space.
The best option for a table is a place by the window.
Firstly, there is no way to put a refrigerator, sink or stove here, so the space near the window is usually not used.
Secondly, the tabletop by the window is illuminated by natural light - it’s nice to sit behind it with a cup of coffee both in the morning and in the evening.
Sometimes, in order to enlarge a small kitchen, it is connected to a loggia, and if this is the case, then it is better to place the dining group in it.
Design project from LDa
What does size affect?
The size of the dining table determines the comfort of the entire room. It should be proportionate to the rest of the furniture, the dimensions of the kitchen or dining room. A table that is too large visually narrows the space and looks foreign, while a table that is too small will stand out from the interior. To understand what size table to choose for the kitchen, use the design proportion of 1:6 - this is the optimal ratio of furniture sizes relative to the room.
There should also be an area in the middle for arranging dishes. Do not buy a table wider than 105 centimeters - it is uncomfortable and awkward to communicate at, and it is difficult to reach the necessary cutlery.
The ergonomic arrangement does not interfere with free movement around the room; there are indentations from other pieces of furniture and household appliances. If you are purchasing a dining room set, you may wonder how to choose a table and chairs for the kitchen. In this case, calculate the number of seats. One chair occupies 40 centimeters of depth and 60 centimeters of width of the tabletop. Chairs should extend completely and not interfere with each other.
Table for the kitchen-living room in the form of a bar counter
Such models are usually installed in small apartments.
Bar counters do not take up much space and provide additional space for storing various things.
If you use auxiliary lighting and other accessories, the bar counter can be turned into a special element of the interior.
The dining kitchen table is the central part of the kitchen, where the whole family gathers and where guests are received.
It should be beautiful and comfortable, spacious and durable, match the room in style and size.
What can be used instead of a table?
If the size of the kitchen is so small that even the most compact option does not fit, or the design and decoration of the room allow you to “play” with the decor, you can try such an unusual solution as choosing a kitchen table for the kitchen interior... without a table. At first glance it sounds meaningless, however, such implementations exist.
In some kitchens, the bar counter serves as a table.
For example, under certain circumstances, a table may well be a mobile drawer for kitchen utensils, which, as a rule, stands under the bar counter or cutting tabletop. Moreover, if the kitchen is rarely used for its intended purpose, and the size allows, you can change the coffee table to a cabinet table, where a vase of flowers will stand most of the time.
Instead of a table, you can also use a cabinet for utensils.
The sides, in this version, are stylized chairs that are recessed under the tabletop and do not take up space. If necessary, this solution can easily become a place to eat for two or three people.
