Are Dining Room Tables a Thing of the Past?

If you have a habit of dropping in on open houses just for a quick peek or spending your evenings scrolling through house tours on Zillow, you may have noticed a trend among modern homes: There's no room for a dining room table.

As open concept homes become the preferred style for home buyers—and nearly every home improvement show on HGTV—formal dining rooms seem to be less and less common. Instead, there are eat-in kitchens, breakfast bars with high stools, and maybe benches around a dining nook. But there's not much room for the grand old dining room tables that dominated our parents' or grandparents' homes. Are modern families too practical to reserve square footage for special occasions like dinner parties and holidays?

A fascinating story over at Vox talks about the history of the dining room table, which started with the Victorians doling out asparagus forks and finger bowls and showing off their fine china. That separate dining space started to disappear in the 1920s thanks to a rise in newfangled kitchen technology, electric stoves! People wanted to show off their new gadget. The prevalence continued to wane through the 1950s when the invention of TV dinners further dispelled the notion of eating only in a dining room. That trend continued throughout the 1960s with eat-in kitchens becoming commonplace, and into the 70s with ranch-style homes further doing away with the concept.

Now, new generations of homeowners are less likely to be interested in having a formal dining room or the tables that fill them. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reports that 43 percent of millennials prefer the look and feel of an open concept layout and casual dinner parties.

That said, while apartments are getting smaller, the size of the average home has increased by 1,000 square feet in the last 50 years, according to Vox. That added square footage may have sparked renewed interest in dining rooms. As Apartment Therapy points out, interior design site Modsy saw a huge spike (156 percent increase) in interest in dining rooms between 2018 and 2019, even before a pandemic had us all hunkering down at home more. As adults and kids alike worked from home, dining rooms became a hot commodity. Folks who had a formal dining room that was perhaps traditionally used only for Easter suppers and dinner parties, suddenly had a whole room to turn into a home office or remote classroom. While dinner parties may have become more casual (and perhaps will even more so post-pandemic), people popping by open houses or scrolling through Zillow posts will start seeing a room with dedicated table space as a huge boon.

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Be it a statement piece or a practical solution for your home, if you love hosting, you’ll appreciate the benefits of having a large dining table.

In this blog, we'll explore the advantages of having a spacious dining table and how it can enhance your daily life and special moments.

From increased comfort to more opportunities for entertaining, such a table can bring a new level of functionality and style to your home.

1. Entertaining: The Advantages of a Large Dining Table

Entertaining guests in your home is a fundamental human need, and a large dining table is a perfect way to bring people together for food and drink. With a grand table, you'll have ample space and comfort to host larger groups.

For example, The Il Pezzo Long Dining Table, which seats 8 to 10 people and has a stylish modern frame, will add a touch of contemporary luxury to your entertaining events. Whether you're serving home-cooked meals or store-bought food (we aren’t judging), this dining table will allow you to host guests with elegance and sophistication.

Furthermore, a spacious table allows for more elaborate table settings, creating a beautiful and inviting atmosphere. When entertaining, you can set the table with your best dishes, silverware, and linens to make a lasting impression on your guests.

A large table top also gives you plenty of room to serve a variety of dishes, from appetisers to main courses, making it easier to accommodate everyone's tastes and dietary restrictions.

Finally, these tables can also be great conversation starters. When guests sit down at a spacious table, they have more room to spread out and interact with each other, leading to more relaxed and enjoyable conversations.

This not only makes your guests feel comfortable but also fosters a sense of community, making your dinner parties more memorable and enjoyable for everyone.

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2. Family Gatherings

Having a spacious dining table is essential for comfortable gatherings with friends and family in your home. When everyone has enough room to eat and talk comfortably, it creates a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Making memories with loved ones is a cherished experience, and there is no better place to do so than around a dining table.

Our families are a source of happiness, and sitting down for a meal together provides a valuable opportunity to connect and strengthen relationships. Sharing daily experiences over a meal is a timeless tradition that helps bring people closer together.

A large dining table can also serve as a central hub for family activities, such as playing games, doing homework, or simply enjoying each other's company.

If you frequently host large family gatherings, the Premier Keramik Drive Extending Table by Cattelan Italia is a great option. With its ability to extend up to 236cm with two included leaves, this table provides ample room for all your guests.

3. Flexibility

A large dining table is a versatile piece of furniture that can be used in many different ways. Some of the different activities you can carry out on a large dining table include:

• Workspace: For those who work from home, a large dining table can serve as a spacious and comfortable office desk. With ample room for a laptop, papers, and other work materials, it provides a dedicated space for work.
• Game nights: A large dining table is a perfect place for family game nights. With plenty of room for all your supplies and space for everyone to spread out, it's the ideal setting for board games, card games, and other tabletop games.
• Arts and crafts: Whether you're scrapbooking, painting, or working on a project, a large dining table provides a spacious and sturdy surface for all your supplies and projects.
• Homework station: For families with children, a large dining table can serve as a central homework station where kids can spread out their books and supplies and work on their homework together.
• Party central: Whether you're hosting a dinner party or a special event, a large dining table provides ample space for guests to sit and socialise.
• Movie nights: With its spacious surface and ample seating, a large dining table can also be used for movie nights, where everyone can sit together and enjoy a film.

Another benefit of a large dining table is its flexibility. Many large dining tables come with leaves that can be added or removed as needed, making it easy to adjust the table's size to suit your needs.

This is especially useful for families who need more space for holiday meals or special events.

4. Design

Designing a dining room around a large dining table can be a fun and exciting process, especially when you have a lot of space to work with. Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful and functional dining room that revolves around your stunning table:

• Choose a focal point: The large dining table should be the focal point of the room. Consider placing it in the centre of the room, with other elements of the decor arranged around it.
• Select coordinating furniture: Choose coordinating furniture that complements the large dining table. Consider a buffet, sideboard, or hutch for storing and displaying dishes, glasses, and other dining essentials.
• Select lighting: Good lighting is essential in a dining room. Consider a chandelier, like the sophisticated, hand-crafted Pulsar Chandelier by Eichholtz or pendant lights that hang above the table, and add table lamps or wall sconces for additional light and ambience.
• Choose a colour scheme: Choose a colour scheme that complements the large dining table and enhances the overall look of the room. Neutral colours, such as beige, grey, or taupe, are a good choice for a dining room, as they create a calm and relaxed atmosphere.
• Add decorative accents: Decorative accents, such as artwork, vases, and candles, can add interest and personality to the room. Consider adding a large piece of art above the buffet or hutch, and use smaller pieces of artwork or decorative accents on the walls.
• Add texture: Textured elements, such as a patterned rug or textured wallpaper, can enhance the depth and interest of the room. Consider incorporating a patterned rug by placing it under the large dining table, or using textured wallpaper on one of the walls.

5. Investment

Investing in a quality large dining table is a smart decision for those looking for a long-lasting and functional piece of furniture. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start.

We recommend starting by considering the size. Think about the size of your dining room and the number of people you typically entertain. Then, choose a table that is proportional to the room and provides enough space for everyone to sit comfortably.

Secondly, take time to research the different material options available. The material you select will be an important factor in determining its quality and durability. Consider high-quality options such as solid wood, glass, metal, and marble.

When it comes to furniture brands, it’s best to choose a brand that is known for producing high-quality furniture. Take time to browse our catalogue of world-renowned brands where you will find furniture houses with a reputation for producing durable and well-made pieces that will last for many years.

Some of our favourite brands for dining tables include:

Lastly, test the table to make sure that it feels sturdy and well-made. If possible, visit a showroom or furniture store to see the table in person. At FCI, we encourage our customers to spend time in our showroom where they can interact with the different pieces we have available and gain a richer understanding of how the materials and finishes will work in their homes.

6. Space-saving

A large dining table can be a great addition to a small space, as long as you choose the right table and use it in a manner that fits your needs. With careful planning and a few design tricks, you can make the most of a small space and create a functional and stylish dining area.

One of the keys to using a large dining table in a small space is to pick the appropriate table. Look for a table with a compact design that can be easily folded or stored when not in use. Additionally, consider a table with leaves that can be added or removed as needed, allowing you to adjust the table's size to suit your needs.

Another important factor to consider is the layout of your space. Make sure to place the table in a way that does not obstruct traffic or create an overcrowded feel. If possible, place the table near a window or other source of natural light to make the space feel more open and airy.

In addition, consider using multi-functional furniture pieces, such as a bench that can be used as seating or storage, to maximise the space. You can also use decorative elements, such as wall art or a statement chandelier, to create visual interest and add a touch of style to your dining area.

7. Durability and Longevity

When it comes to durability and longevity, the material of the table is a key factor to consider. Here are some of our top recommended materials for your luxury table:

• Solid Wood: Solid wood is a classic and durable choice for a large dining table. Hardwoods such as oak, cherry, and maple are particularly high-quality and can last for many years with proper care.
• Marble: Marble is a luxurious and high-quality material for a dining table. It is strong, durable, and heat-resistant, making it a great choice for families who often use the table for hot dishes.
• Granite: Granite is another high-quality material that is strong, durable, and heat-resistant. It is also low-maintenance, making it a great choice for busy households.
• Metal: Metal dining tables, such as those made from steel or aluminium, are strong and durable. They are also resistant to scratches and dents, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas.
• Glass: Glass dining tables can be made from tempered glass, which is strong and durable. Glass tables are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a low-maintenance option.

8. Comfort

Seating your dinner guests in comfort is essential to ensure that everyone has a good time and enjoys the meal.

Start by considering the number of guests you have and the size of your dining table. Make sure that there is enough space for each person to sit comfortably and move their arms freely without bumping into others.

Take into account the physical needs of your guests. For example, if someone has a bad back, provide them with a comfortable chair with good lumbar support. If someone is elderly or has limited mobility, make sure they have a seat that is easy for them to get in and out of.

Arrange the seating in a way that encourages conversation. You can seat guests facing each other or at a slight angle to encourage interaction. Avoid seating guests with their backs to each other as this can make it difficult to engage in conversation.

Consider the dynamics of your guests. If you have guests who are shy or introverted, seat them next to someone they know and feel comfortable with. If you have guests who are outgoing and talkative, seat them next to someone who can hold their own in a conversation.

As for seating, when buying your dining chairs, look for these indications of quality to ensure your comfort:

• A seat scoop makes many dining chairs more comfortable for long hours of sitting.
• Curved backrests support the correct alignment of your spine by making way for its natural S-shape instead of letting you sit stiffly on the chair.
• Depending on your preferences, you may choose a dining chair with an armrest, but dining seats without armrests are equally comfortable.
• Upholstery and cushions distinctly improve the comfort of any dining chair structure.

If in doubt, armchairs are always a safe bet. With armrests and plush cushions, they provide a comfortable and supportive seating experience, making them a great choice for long meals or gatherings.

9. Aesthetics

A well-styled large dining table can add style, sophistication, and elegance to your dining room, making it the focal point of the room.

Start by choosing a unique table style such as a modern and contemporary design, a traditional and classic look, or an eclectic mix of styles. Choose a style that reflects your taste and enhances the overall look of your dining room.

Ensuing, decide on an eye-catching centrepiece. This could be a grande floral arrangement, a beautiful vase, or a unique sculpture drawing attention to your table.

Place settings can also make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your large dining table. Similarly, table runners are great for adding texture, colour, and interest. If the rest of your room is muted, consider adding a dramatic runner that will stand out in the sea of neutral hues.

Conclude by accessorising with candles. Candles can add warmth and ambience to your dining room. Place them in various sizes and styles.

Wrapping It Up

In conclusion, having a large dining table offers many benefits that make it a great investment for your home.

From providing ample space for entertaining guests and hosting family gatherings to serving as a hub for family activities and providing comfort and style. A large dining table is a versatile and functional piece of furniture that can enhance any dining room.

At FCI, we carry an impressive selection of large dining tables in a variety of materials. With pieces coming from all corners of the globe, we’ve got something for every look.

If you're looking for ideas on how to style your high-end dining furniture, you can take inspiration from the design projects that we have completed for some of the UK's most luxurious properties.