If you're on the hunt for a new dining table, you may be asking yourself whether you should go with a round or rectangular shape. While this is ultimately a matter of preference, there are certain advantages to both that should be taken into account when making your decision. Read on and discover the pros and cons of round and rectangular dining tables, and let us help you decide which one is right for your home!

Types of Dining Tables – Round vs. Rectangular

When furnishing your dining room, the shape of your table plays an important role in creating the atmosphere you want. Round and rectangular dining tables are two of the most popular shapes available. In order to choose what is right for you, it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Round Dining Tables:
Round tables offer a cozy, intimate atmosphere that can enhance conversation around the table. Traditional settings feature a smaller round table — typically 28”–48” in diameter — which is perfect for an intimate four-person dinner or brunch. 



If you’re looking to seat more people, look for a larger diameter which accommodates up to 6-10 people comfortably. The graceful lines of round tables also make them a great choice for homes with large open floor plans where small corners or nooks can be used to create the feeling of a separate space without sacrificing openness.

Rectangular Dining Tables:
A rectangular dining table has greater seating capacity than round tables, making them ideal for large families or entertaining groups. Rectangle tables traditionally come in sizes that seat 4, 6 and 8 people comfortably but some come with extensions that increase their seating capacity significantly — ideal when hosting larger events such as Thanksgiving dinner or holiday dinners. They are also surprisingly versatile when it comes to styling; with items like tabletop decorations, runners and centerpieces all working together with its straight edges to create beautiful displays that draw attention from everyone in attendance!

Size and Dimensions – How to Choose the Right Size Table


In order to make the best decision when selecting a new dining table, it’s important to consider the size and dimensions of the room where it will be placed. The shape of the table is a factor to consider, but size should have greater emphasis.



When selecting a round dining table, be sure to choose a diameter that accommodates both your room and the number of people who will use it. It's key to leave enough space for guests to easily access their seats and move around the table as needed. Typically, allow at least 26" per person when desiring an intimate gathering and up to 36" for larger groups or more spacious settings.

When selecting a rectangular dining table, determine how many place settings you need by counting how many people will be seated regularly on a regular basis and if there are other items you would like placed on the table (e.g., buffet). If you desire flexibility for extra guests, consider extending your table or using leaves that can be added as needed for larger gatherings or when additional tabletop space is desired. Standard sizes for rectangular tables range from 36" x 48" (for four people) up to 96" x 44" (for 12 people).

In general, easy access around furniture such as chairs is important—aim to keep an 18–24” walkway between any two chairs directly next two each other at a table. For more information on sizing guidelines take note of square footage measurements in catalogs or online guides before making a purchase.

Material Options – Wood, Metal, Marble, Glass and More

When considering the material of your dining table, there are a wide variety of materials to choose from. Depending on style preference, design, functionality and desired durability, the options can range from different types of wood to metal, marble, glass or even a combination of different materials.

Wood: Types such as pine, cherry, oak and mahogany are popular. Commonly used in traditional décor styles for their warm colors and cozy feel.
Metal: Great for modern or contemporary spaces as it lends a clean line look with slim profiles. Popular metal choices include steel and wrought iron.
Marble: Luxurious yet still neutral enough for most home décor styles. Its unique veining pattern can add an elegant touch to classic decorating schemes or contrast well with modern furniture in bold colors like red or black.
Glass: Crisp and classic look that adds a fresh appeal to any room while offering transitional options between traditional pieces and minimalist designs featuring transparent finishes.
Combining Different Materials: Combinations such as metal-on-wood or wood-on-glass please both traditionalists as well as contemporary aesthetic tastes when used in sophisticated color palettes like reds, whites or blacks. A great way to allow mixing old with new into one design space.


No matter what your preferred dining table style is, knowing the option for material will help you select the perfect table for your home!

Tabletop Design – Smooth or Textured Finishes

Whether you choose a round or rectangular dining table, it is important to consider the tabletop design when selecting one. The surface style and material can affect how the table looks, feels, and functions. A smooth surface is great for cleaning up accidental spills with minimal effort and is a popular choice for many homes. On the other hand, textured finishes such as wood grain or textured metals offer a more decorative look as well as help conceal any imperfections that may have occurred during manufacturing.

When assessing different tabletop options, factor in daily routine use from family members. For example if you have young children who like to craft at the table with crayons or paints, a textured surface will be able to better hide any marks made by those art supplies than a smooth top would. And for those who spend time at the dining room table reading or doing homework, bear in mind that some materials may cause glare under certain light conditions so opt for a matte finish rather than glossy if glare could be an issue in your home’s environment.

Table Legs – Different Styles & Finishes

When shopping for a dining table, one of the important factors to consider is the type and style of table legs. There are several different types of legs available, including traditional and modern designs in different shapes and sizes. Each type of leg creates a unique look for the table, which can be complemented with different materials and finishes to fit any décor.

Circular and rectangular shaped dining tables will typically have four legs, each with a unique design that can allows for more space at the base of the table. Some common types of table legs include straight tapered or curved (also known as cabriole), spade or sabre style, trestle or X-shaped supports and pedestal bases. Most styles are available in solid hardwood such as oak, ash or walnut, as well as metal varieties like steel or wrought iron for a modern touch.

Finishes can range from traditional wood stains to painted finishes in vibrant colors — upholstery can also be added along with decorative elements like carvings that create a timeless look perfect for an elegant setting. Transparent finishes let the natural grain shine through while dark tones lend classic appeal to any room. With so many choices available it’s easy to find the perfect set of legs that will match your existing décor while lasting generations if properly cared for.

Table Seating Capacity – How Many People Can Fit Around the Table

When purchasing a dining table, one of the key factors to consider is the seating capacity and how many people it will comfortably fit. Table style, shape and size all play a role in maximum occupancy. Knowing how many people can fit at a table is important if you are hosting guests or large family gatherings.



Round- or rectangular-shaped tables can better accommodate different sizes of groups, but it's important to note that the number of chairs that you can fit around a round or rectangular table ultimately depends on its size. Generally speaking, circular tables offer more flexible seating – meaning more people can often be squeezed in than with rectangular versions due to their shape. For instance, a medium sized round table (seating 4-6 people) may allow an extra two chairs to be added than with an equivalent sized rectangular model when seating bigger parties. Rectangular tables offer less edge space for each diner which means fewer people fit around them for adequate comfort levels; this isn't generally ideal for larger gatherings.

When selecting your dining room table size, first measure the space you have available and determine it's configuration – be sure to think beyond just fitting all the chairs around it! You should also take into consideration not only now many guests you need to seat but also planned future use such as special occasions, parties etc. When measuring up the dimensions of your chosen table always remember that if space allows there needs to be at least 16'' from each end of the table and at least 24" between each diner - allowing enough room for all guests’ elbows as well as any extra peripherals like placemats, drinks and plated dishes that get passed along sharing with everyone else at the table.

Maintenance and Care – Tips for Keeping Your Table Looking Great

Keeping your dining table looking great is an important part of taking care of it and extending its life. Here are some useful tips to help you maintain and care for your table:

  • Make sure you dust surfaces regularly with a soft, damp cloth.
  • Avoid direct contact with bright sunlight, which can cause discoloration over time.
  • Protect against heat sources such as hot dishes or ovens. Never place anything hot directly on the table top.
  • Clean spills immediately, avoid using chemical cleaners of any kind or harsh abrasives or scouring pads. Using a mild soap solution is the best way to deal with spills and food residue.
  • If the surface finish of your dining table is waxed or polished, you should periodically rewax and buff the finish using furniture wax made specifically for this purpose.
  • Take special care when sliding chairs in and out from underneath the table to prevent scratching or chipping the surface material. 

Unprotected furniture legs can also damage flooring surfaces if they scratch during movement of the chair. Use protective pads beneath each leg to protect them against scratches, as well as damage to linoleum, tile or hardwood flooring surfaces.

Budget Considerations – Finding the Right Table at the Right Price


When shopping for a dining table, a key element to consider is your budget. When it comes to budget considerations, you’ll want to decide how much you are comfortable with spending. Quality materials such as solid wood or metal can be expensive, but may be worth the investment as these tables can last for generations.

If you're looking for an affordable table, try looking for lower-cost alternatives such as purchase models made of laminate or particle board — these are both durable yet cost-effective options. Also keep in mind that larger tables tend to cost more than smaller ones, so take into account how many people will typically be seated around your new dining table and adjust your budget accordingly.

Be sure to shop around! There are plenty of bargain deals out there if you're willing to take the time and do some research on different stores and styles – if you’re flexible when it comes to style, size, material and shape, then you might even find something as unique as a vintage piece or even a handcrafted one-of-a-kind model! With the right amount of research and patience, it’s possible to find a great round or rectangular shaped table at an attractive price point.