How to choose a table for the kitchen - color matters. 60+ photos

No. 1. What size table do you need?

The table should be such that the whole family can comfortably sit , but at the same time there is still free space in the kitchen itself. Ergonomics specialists have long ago calculated and derived a formula for a comfortable table . So, per person sitting there should be at least 60 cm in width and 40 cm in depth; in the middle of the table there should still be space for serving items common to everyone. The minimum width of a dining table is 80-85 cm, and the length is selected depending on how many people will regularly gather at the table and how large your kitchen is.

It is also worth noting that choosing a table with a width of more than 105 cm , even if the kitchen area allows it, is not a very good idea. It is quite difficult to communicate at such a table, and coziness is lost. But a table already 80 cm will also be inconvenient for a family, because there will be no room left for serving.

The choice of table size depends on its shape. So, a rectangular table with dimensions of 150*90 cm is perfect for a family of 4-6 people, depending on where it will be placed. For a family of up to 8 people, it is better to look for a table with parameters of 200*110 cm, etc. If the table is round, then the calculation is a little different: the smallest table with a diameter of 110 cm will fit 4 people perfectly, with a diameter of 130 cm, 6 people will sit.

It is worth considering that there must be free space for normal movement .
So, chairs should move away without any problems, without touching other pieces of furniture or equipment. It is optimal to leave at least 1 meter between the table and adjacent objects.

Features of choosing chairs

The classic choice is to buy a dining set, where the table and chairs for the kitchen are made of the same material, in the same style and shades. This option is not suitable for everyone, so you have to buy chairs separately. Furniture manufacturers use the same materials for chairs as for tables, with the exception of stone tables. You can give preference to an inexpensive model with fabric seat upholstery or a luxurious analogue made of genuine leather.

Color range of chairs

Depending on the interior style, you can choose the following color options:

• white or monochrome. A classic option for combining with other shades of kitchen furniture. A white table or chair will ideally match the blue, gray, or pastel shade of the set. Gold standard: do not make a difference of more than 2-3 tones between the chairs and the rest of the furniture in the kitchen;
• bright shades will fit into a kitchen decorated in modern style. A fashionable solution is to select furniture to match one of the minor interior details - a chandelier, painting or household appliances;
• shades of beige and brown. Shades that match natural wood are suitable for many interior styles. It is not recommended to buy a brown dining set for a high-tech kitchen, but with a competent design approach you can find a suitable solution.

In conclusion, I would like to give one general piece of advice. Don't get hung up on strict rules and standards. In the assortment of kitchen furniture manufacturers there will definitely be “your” option. Trust your own feelings, consult with your loved ones, consider your budget. The main thing is to create the most practical and comfortable atmosphere possible, because eating or talking in a friendly atmosphere will charge you with positivity and give you priceless emotions!

No. 2. Which form do you prefer?

Today, dining tables are presented mainly in square, rectangular, round and oval shapes , although some designer collections also contain fancy-shaped options , whose convenience is questionable. Which standard table shape is more preferable in each individual case?

The rectangular table is a true classic. It is very convenient, it can easily be placed against the wall or pushed into the center of the kitchen. Moreover, there are a lot of folding, sliding models, transformable tables, which in a matter of moments turn from a compact dining table into a place for holding a real feast for a dozen people.

Square tables are among the most spacious. In addition, they are great space savers and suitable for small kitchens. Being in the corner, they will be an excellent option for a family of two people, and a square table in the center with a minimum side length of 90 cm is already an excellent option for a family of 4 people. For large families with a spacious kitchen, a square table for 8 people is suitable.

A round table will make the kitchen interior more interesting, and the space itself will be safer for children, because there are no corners. Moreover, a round table can accommodate many more people than a rectangular table with the same surface area. Also on sale are round tables with the ability to transform. Dining tables of this shape have some disadvantages : they cannot be pushed against the wall, and they are only suitable for small families, since a table designed for 8 people will be so large that it will be awkward to communicate at it.

Oval tables have all the advantages of round and rectangular ones: they are great for large families, comfortable, and have a great appearance. Semicircular tables are also popular today - a good option for kitchens with a small area.

Table design features

By choosing a table with optimal design features, you can significantly improve the functionality and comfort of your stay in the kitchen.

Extendable and folding table

The advantages of retractable and folding tables are visible to the naked eye. These products are great space savers, which is very useful for small kitchens.

When assembled, the folding table takes up quite a bit of space. But if you have such a need, you can transform it into a full-fledged table at which you can accommodate the whole family.

At the same time, retractable tables save money due to their functionality. One such table can replace several interior items at once. Each person will be able to customize the extendable table for themselves: simply adjust the height.

Table transformer

A transforming table can create a special atmosphere. A distinctive feature of such furniture is the ability to change shape and size.

Such models of tables began to be in great demand since the time of mass construction of multi-story buildings that could not boast of large living space. But even today, transforming tables are in great demand among all segments of the population.

Attractive appearance, compactness and ease of use are the main advantages of such tables.

Side table

Equipping a small kitchen requires searching for furniture that is both compact and multifunctional. An ideal example of such furniture is a side table.

This element will help you create coziness in the kitchen and ensure a comfortable stay in this room. The cabinet table is a small table that, if necessary, turns into a large table for the whole family.

Modern manufacturers of such tables use only the highest quality and innovative materials. From a huge assortment of cabinet tables, you can definitely choose exactly the model that suits your taste.

Bar table

Unlike the usual dining table, the bar table is not only much higher, but also much smaller due to the small size of the tabletop. Of course, this option is not suitable for a large family, but there will definitely be enough space for two people!

However, today a huge variety of designs and shapes of bar tables is available to everyone, so you can choose the right product.

The bar counter, in turn, can become not only a beautiful decoration for the kitchen, but also save valuable space in this room. At the same time, the functionality of the room will increase significantly thanks to the capabilities of the bar counter.

No. 3. Which table to choose for a small kitchen?

Summarizing all of the above, it can be noted that for a small kitchen the best option is a semicircular table , where one side is straight, which is moved flush against the wall. A small round table is an excellent option for a small family, which in everyday life usually does not use the corners of the table for serving, which means there is an opportunity to save space in the kitchen.

For the smallest kitchens, we can recommend a folding table , which is screwed to the windowsill or wall. When it’s time to eat, it is raised and then returned to its usual position so that it does not interfere with free movement around the kitchen. As a rule, stools are used along with such tables, which can also be folded or stacked on top of each other.

Transformable tables are an option invented just for modest-sized rooms. A seemingly compact table can turn into a huge one thanks to special folding, sliding, etc. mechanisms. If guests suddenly arrive, there will be no problems with their seating.

To make the space visually a little wider, you can choose a transparent table made of glass or plastic . It will still take up space, but the kitchen will not be perceived as tiny and crammed with furniture.

Rules for selecting tables and chairs for the kitchen

When choosing, you need to take into account the size of the room and the number of people who will be in it at the same time. Don't forget about other parameters:

• style;
• texture;
• material of manufacture;
• financial capabilities of the owner.

The dining group should be in harmony with the kitchen set, walls and floor. How to choose chairs for the kitchen:

1. For a small room, a small square or rectangular table is suitable. If frequent guests are expected, then preference should be given to a sliding or folding model. Chairs should also be small and slide freely under the table. The best solution is considered to be a stool or narrow metal furniture with a seat width of up to 35 cm.
2. Small tables are not suitable for a large room. It is better to purchase a set of furniture, where all the items will be of a certain shape and color.

If the dining set is bought in parts, then the main feature of the items is the combination of their shape.

No. 4. Table for a large kitchen

For a large kitchen, you can choose almost any option for a dining table, because you are not constrained by anything. A spacious table will look great in a spacious kitchen; a small one will simply get lost and look out of place. It is best to place the table in the center, but if the kitchen is equipped with an island, then the table can be placed closer to the wall.

, long rectangular and oval tables are perfect , which will be complemented by matching chairs. For medium-sized kitchens, tables of any shape are suitable, and their location will depend on the location of other pieces of furniture.

A good table for the kitchen with your own hands: is it possible?

Of course, not everyone can make a high-quality piece of kitchen furniture on their own, at the level of a store sample. However, if a temporary solution is required, you can try to go this route. The most important thing to understand is that such a table should be as simple as possible, from available materials, so that it is not difficult to make using tools available in every home.

You can make a simple table with your own hands.

Tabletop material – chipboard or MDF board. The shape can be made either smooth or with rounded edges. It is easier to treat the end with melamine tape, although, if possible, it is better to give preference to a PVC edge. Legs should be bought at a construction supermarket. Since they always come complete with the necessary fasteners, all that remains is to screw them to the tabletop. Basically, that's all!

All parts for the table can be bought at a construction supermarket.

No. 5. Which material should you prefer?

The dining table should be made of durable and reliable material that is resistant to accidentally spilled moisture and can withstand washing normally. Today, the most popular tables are those with tops made of the following materials:

1. tree. Such tables are the strongest, most durable and reliable, they last for decades and boast an excellent appearance. Depending on the type of wood, the countertop may have a different shade and texture. Such tables fit perfectly into a classic interior and will be indispensable in a kitchen where there are already wooden pieces of furniture;

2. rattan - another natural material that, despite its lightness, is very strong and durable. Such tables are usually covered with even thicker glass on top to preserve the beautiful appearance of wicker furniture and improve performance by reducing the risk of crumbs getting into the cracks;

3. glass - a material that, due to its transparency, does not visually clutter the room, but is not inferior in functionality to its analogues. To make glass tables, they use hardened triplex, which has sufficient strength, can withstand strong impacts, and if something happens, even if damaged, is not capable of injuring anyone. The glass itself can be completely transparent or matte, with some kind of pattern, with photo printing, painted in some color. The legs can be made of any material, but metal ones look most appropriate. This table fits perfectly into an interior in the style of minimalism and hi-tech. Caring for it is a little more complicated, since you need to carefully get rid of stains;

4. laminated chipboard is the cheapest, but at the same time short-lived material. The surface can imitate any texture, but quite quickly chips appear on it from mechanical damage and bubbles from exposure to moisture;
5. veneered MDF – a very durable material whose properties are almost as good as wood, and with proper care the table can generally be called eternal;

6. A stone countertop is a real decoration of the kitchen, but the room itself for such a design reception should be rather large. In terms of performance, such tables are strong, extremely durable, and cannot be damaged by impact or water;
7. tiled table - quite an interesting, but rarely encountered option. If you cover the surface of the table with the same tiles as the walls, you will get a harmonious interior, and the table will be easy to clean and not afraid of exposure to moisture and aggressive detergents.

The principle of unity of styles

Most people prefer to purchase a dining set made in a certain style. Attempts to independently combine several options do not always end successfully. If desired, you can resort to the principle of compatibility of incompatible things. But this does not mean that a randomly purchased item will fit into the interior and become an excellent addition to it.

Tables can be made of stone, wood, plastic, rattan, chipboard and MDF. The same materials are used for the chairs, except stone and glass. Legs and backs can be metal. When purchasing, you need to choose the right furniture so that it does not cause disharmony.

Ensemble with armchairs

No. 6. Where to put?

Most kitchens do not have a large area , so there are few options for table placement. The table is usually placed under the wall opposite to the one where the work area is located. If the kitchen is spacious and has a full dining area, then the table can be placed in the center. If you are lucky enough to become the owner of a separate room intended for eating, then the table is definitely placed in its center.

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.

No. 7. Number of table legs: how many are better?

The number of legs on a table can vary within certain limits. Often, when choosing a dining table, this parameter is underestimated, although it is no less important than the material of the tabletop or the size of the table. So, how many legs can a table have, and which option is preferable?

1. one leg as a central support - a very convenient and stable option. It is comfortable to sit at such a table, because your feet will not bump into or hit the table legs;

2. two legs are not the most convenient option, although outwardly it looks quite compact and cozy. A huge disadvantage of such designs is the inability to sit at the ends of the table, because there will simply be nowhere to put your legs;
3. three legs are typically found in round shaped tables. This is a fairly convenient, functional and aesthetic option;
4. four legs – a classic option, the convenience of which has probably been tested by each of us, so comments here are superfluous.

Shapes and sizes

How to decide on the scale of the table, while leaving a free passage in the kitchen and maintaining comfort. This question worries every buyer.

For convenient placement, 55–60 cm is required for one person. The space will allow you to arrange cutlery, plates, and also place your hands.

Folding

For a small kitchen, a folding table with a length of 50 cm (folded) would be an excellent solution. It doesn't take up much space. Fits into any corner of the room. This unfolded furniture can accommodate up to 6 people. However, such a dining place also has disadvantages. The assembled product accommodates two people who eat in an uncomfortable cramped state. This can be avoided if you choose a larger table from 120 cm. Also, with frequent mechanical impact, when unfolding, there is a possibility of rapid wear. The tabletop may jam and the legs may become loose over time. Such models are made from log wood, chipboard, MDF.

Round

The No. 1 choice of families with children is a round table. Furniture is less dangerous due to the fact that it does not have sharp corners. It is more convenient to place guests behind a round model; no one will be sitting on the edge, and the entire surface will be used. According to Feng Shui, it is this form that is the key to friendship and family peace. Among the round ones there are transformers that allow you to save space. Despite the fact that the interior will only be transformed by such a stylistic decision, round tables are designed for medium- to large-sized rooms. Such a model can be placed only by stepping back from the wall, the working part of the kitchen. Placing it in the middle of the room will significantly reduce the space.

Rectangular

The classic rectangular model is a good solution for any square footage. It all depends on the chosen size, as well as the possibility of transformation. Installation against the wall significantly saves usable space while maintaining mobility of use. The dimensions are completely different. Small ones - from 60 to 150 cm, and models for large kitchens and living rooms up to 3 meters. So for a small apartment - studio, a folding rectangular table measuring 60 cm (folded) is the best solution, as it saves space, and on holidays it is easy to expand up to 2 meters.

Square

The fundamental difference between this model is the possibility of angular use. By placing the product in this way, there will be more free space. At the same time, it will be possible to cook and have a snack for two family members. It will not be difficult to pull out such a model for lunch, and 4 to 5 people can comfortably sit on two sides with a length of 180 cm.

Oval

A semicircular table will decorate a living room furnished in a classic, country style. Especially if it is made of solid wood. Oval ones are sliding and folding. In terms of safety and general functionality, they are similar to round types. They are often found in a very expensive version, made from wood, or, on the contrary, completely budget-friendly, such as plastic; they often come complete with stools.

Triangular

The most unusual shape is triangular. This design will add originality to the interior of the room. It will enliven the space and capture the attention of guests. Models are usually placed in a corner to save square footage. Made of glass, they will fit perfectly into apartments with high-tech, techno, and minimalist renovations. One-piece, without the possibility of enlargement. The standard width is 60 cm, length along the edge is 65 – 70 cm. Often the tabletop is mounted on three legs or one solid cross.

Legs. Convenience in quantity

Furniture manufacturers try to stand out with their design, decorating tabletops with landscapes, placing an imitation of an aquarium or a sandy beach under glass. They bring in the necessary details - legs, creative solutions. They cut out patterns and paint them with bright colors. However, the quantity and shape remain unchanged. There are different numbers of legs:

• One leg, respectively, located in the center, has the shape of a funnel, and is a structure that at first glance does not inspire confidence. However, it is not. The fastening is reliable and stable. It is placed in such a way that the center of gravity is determined over the entire surface. The main advantage is that the legs will not rest or hit the tabletop supports. Visually, such a table looks fashionable and aesthetically pleasing.
• A two-legged leg is not a comfortable option for a family of more than 4 – 6 people. Since there is no possibility of free placement at the ends of the table. This option is more suitable for writing purposes, for large rooms, provided that the table itself reaches 3 - 4 meters in length. Then it will become a real interior decoration in a bourgeois style. It is durable and will not become loose very quickly.
• Triangular and round models are often found with three legs. There are no downsides to this solution. The advantages are stability, conciseness, lack of visual overload.
• Four legs are a classic option, found on rectangular and square models. Usually the sticks are not thick and are screwed to the tabletop with metal fasteners. It all depends on the quality of the fittings and the thickness of the material. A poor choice will affect durability.

In order to avoid mistakes when choosing, in addition to the material and design, you should pay attention to the quality of the edge processing. It should be tightly glued to the joints and corners of the table. No scratches or chips.

The relevant documents will make it clear to the buyer when the table was made, how long the wood lay, perhaps not in the driest place. Of course, it is worth choosing “fresh” furniture.

No. 8. Dining table style

Probably, it’s not even worth mentioning that the dining table should fit into the interior of the kitchen space . It is advised to choose a table and chairs at the very end of a kitchen renovation, when all the subtleties of the created interior are known. But it’s better to create a project for the future kitchen in advance , and choose the table that will fit in as best as possible. Kitchens made in a classic style will be complemented by wooden dining tables. Modern spaces will look great with a glass table and transparent plastic chairs.

Modern kitchens and studio kitchens today are often equipped with bar counters . They serve both as a space separator for the work area and the dining area, and as an additional surface where you can also have lunch or a snack.

How to choose the color of the kitchen table

When deciding what color to choose a table for the kitchen, all significant factors are taken into account: the size of the kitchen and table, the lighting of the kitchen, the color and texture of the facades and countertops of the work furniture, the general style of the kitchen.

Sometimes it’s worth making repairs, installing the rest of the furniture and only then deciding on the color of the table. If the kitchen does not have a clear style, a glass table - transparent or tinted in a smoky color - will always look advantageous. In any case, in addition to the color of the table, you need to choose a functional coating that is not afraid of moisture and dirt.

No. 9. Which manufacturer should you prefer?

Today, the choice of tables is simply huge, and often the quality is determined by the name of the manufacturer. The most popular are tables made by manufacturers in the following countries:

• Italy. This country is famous for its many furniture companies that offer high-quality, comfortable, practical and stylish tables that amaze with their design. Manufacturers offer both luxurious, expensive options and quite affordable, but no less high-quality ones;
• Poland produces products in accordance with all European standards, so the tables are of high quality. At the same time, companies here take into account the latest canons of furniture fashion, but do not inflate prices. Tables from Polish manufacturers are in great demand today;
• Germany is distinguished by a scrupulous approach to production, so dining tables from German manufacturers amaze with their convenience, high quality, every detail is thought out;
• China also offers quality dining tables and often at fairly affordable prices. But you can get a product of appropriate quality only if its price is not ridiculously low: for a low price it is foolish to expect to get a durable product;
• Manufacturers from Russia today can compete with European and Chinese companies. Domestic manufacturers offer high-quality products with an original design, taking into account the characteristics of our cramped kitchens. At the same time, the price of domestic products is often much lower than imported ones due to the absence of many additional costs associated with transportation.

In conclusion

The dining table is the real center of the kitchen, where all household members gather and where guests are received. This place should be cozy and comfortable, practical and durable, match the room in style and size, and accommodate all family members and guests. At first glance, choosing a dining table seems like a difficult task, but in reality everything is much easier: you just need to think about the interior of the kitchen and the requirements for the table itself, and our tips will help you make the right choice.

Tags:Kitchen, Table