Chairs and chair arms should be able to slide under your dining table with ease, but they also must have comfortable lap and leg room when guests are sitting in them. Most dining tables are about 30 inches high. Chair height is generally 18 inches (from the floor to the seat).Rules of ThumbAllow 12 inches between the seat of your chair and your tabletop.Leave 7 inches between the chair arm and the bottom or apron of the table. The average dining chair width is 16-20 inches. If dining chairs are placed right next to each other with no space between them, people will bump elbows when eating. Because of that, add 6 inches to each chair's width to accommodate the spaces between them. You'll also want to make sure there is enough room behind your dining chairs for people to slide out easily. Rules of ThumbProvide each guest 24-30 inches at the dining table.For rectangular tables, add an extra 12 inches at each end for those seated at the head and foot of the table.Allow for at least 36 inches between the dining table and any walls or other furniture.
Measure your chairs at their widest point. Depending on the style of the chair, this can mean either the seat or the chair back. Arms will usually add about 6 inches to the overall width of a single dining chair. If space is limited, you may opt for armless dining chairs or only use dining chairs with arms at the head and foot of the table to conserve space.Design: Terracotta Design Build A dining set serves as the backdrop for countless important life events. Whether you're anticipating elegant holiday meals or casual heart-to-hearts after dinner, it's worth investing in a dining table that accommodates all your needs. To start, the shape of your room will dictate what shape of table you should shop for; for instance, a rectangular or oval table is likely to be best in a rectangular space. Once you've decided on the shape, use our guidelines below to help you choose the size table that fits both your room and your lifestyle. If you plan to frequently host large parties, you'll probably opt for the largest table option for your room.
On the other hand, if you prefer more intimate gatherings and smaller family dinners, a smaller table may be a better fit. Read on to discover the variables you should factor in when deciding on a dining table. To allow enough room for a person to comfortably rise and push her chair back from the table, you need a minimum of 36 inches between the table edge and the wall, but more (42 to 48 inches) is better. You may want a 12-seat table, the size of your room may only allow for an eight-seat table. Err on the side of less is more for a comfy fit. If you don't need a large table now, but would occasionally like one for special events or anticipate your needs may grow in the future, choose a dining table with a removable leaf (provided it will still fit in your space when fully expanded!). Design: Maureen Stevens Design Allow each guest a minimum of 24 inches of table surface. Even better, allow up to 30 inches for extra elbow room. For rectangular tables, be sure to add an extra 12 inches at each end for those seated at the head and food of the table.
Opt for a table with a pedestal base to allow more leg room; table legs and chairs won't get tangled.Kate Maloney Interior Design Most dining tables are about 30 inches high. Chair height is generally 18 inches (from the floor to the seat). This allows for comfortable lap and leg room. A general rule of thumb is to allow at least 12 inches between the seat of your chair and your tabletop. How Many People Will Fit? Review this handy chart to determine how many guests will comfortably fit at a table of your desired size and shape. In informal spaces, such as breakfast nooks, you can squeeze a couple extra people at the table, but be cognizant of the table's surroundings—this may feel crowded.To create a space that's comfortable and functional, you need to make sure you have enough room to relax and maneuver. Use these guidelines to design a welcoming dining room. Need additional advice about measuring or product suggestions to fit your space? Our expert Design Associates are ready to help.
The number of chairs you are able to place at the table is determined in multiple ways. In fact, two tables with the same size top might accommodate different numbers of people based on the leg placement and top If you are trying to maximize seating, consider a pedestal or trestle table or even benches as seating. eliminates the table legs and the chair legs bumping into each other. Width of place setting The general guideline is to allow 24 inches for every person at your table. However, using a tablecloth instead of individual placemats or bench seating instead of chairs allows for cozier seating. of your place settings is also a factor: multiple utensils and extra glassware at each seat requires more space for each person. The minimum depth for a dining table is 30 inches. If you rely on your table for serving space, a depth of 36 inches or larger provides more room for platters, bowls, pitchers and centerpieces. Distance between the table and walls or furniture
If possible, leave at least 36 inches between the edge of your table and other furniture or the wall. provides enough room for someone to walk behind the chairs while others are seated or to open a door on aIf you have room, 48 inches of space is ideal. Clearance under the table If you have dining chairs with arms, the space between the table and the floor will determine if the arms can tuck all the way under the table. Also consider the clearance for crossing your legs underneath the When choosing the size of the rug beneath your dining table, remember that the rug needs to accommodate all the legs of the chairs, even when the chairs are pushed away from the table (such as when guests get up fromAt least 24 inches from the edge of the table to the edge of the rug will give you plenty of room and prevent chair legs from catching on the edge of the rug. When lighting your dining room, start with the overhead fixture. Choose a pendant lamp that creates a pool