Choose all solid wood for a stately look or combine with metal parts for a lighter impression. Or choose sustainable engineered woods or composite materials made of salvaged wood like chopsticks for a unique look.

Marble is the most popular natural choice, which will fetch a heavier price tag. Go with engineered stones or compact surfaces for the look, durability and the degree of customisability.

Some brands offer beautiful tables made of polycarbonate (PC) that are produced sustainably, which guarantees to make a good conversation starter.

Glass lends a touch of elegance and lightness. Take care to childproof it if you have active children.

The shape and size of your dining table depends on the dimension of the room, plus the capacity that you want. Here are some things to consider.

Give each diner at least 60cm space from each other to dine comfortably.

Leave out at least 90cm between the wall of the room and the dining chair.

The narrowest end of a rectangular table should be at least 90cm to seat one diner, or 120cm to seat two.

Does your dining table double as a work table? Consider one with power cable access or a bar-height table for standing desk.

Is your dining room part of a flexible space? Consider an expandable table or folding table and chairs.

The dining table may be the largest item in your dining room, but it doesn’t have to be the most expensive, unless you want it to also be the centrepiece.

The style of the dining room should match the overall look of your interior.

Pick a simple, essential table if you’d like it to be unobtrusive, or go with statement table if you want it to be a key style feature in your space.

Essential Dining Table

Featuring clean lines and basic shapes, they’re all about function and performance.

Featuring eye-catching materials, sculptural base and other add-on features like a lazy susan, these are practically a work of art.

While your dining table and dining chairs do not have to come from the same collection, they do have to look good and work well together. And it’s all about the proportion.

Armchair

Make sure the tops of the arms don’t brush or bump the bottom of the tabletop. Bring your measuring tape to the shop to make sure.

Side chairs or multipurpose chairs are those with no arms, and are arguably the most versatile chairs.

Choose a stackable one for a flexi room. The taller the back of the chair, the more stately the ensemble looks.

Transparent or backless chairs make the dining room feel lighter and airier.

Incorporating a bench into the dining room ensemble giving it an informal, relaxed look and promotes a more flexible seating arrangement.

Text: Asih Jenie/Home & Decor

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