The dining table is more than a piece of furniture — it’s the backdrop for connection, celebration, and everyday life. But choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing size, comfort, and style.
In our Terravista Diaries series, we walk clients through this decision every day. Here are the essentials I recommend for selecting a dining table that truly fits your home and how you live.
Watch: Our Terravista Diaries episode on choosing the right dining table
👉 https://youtu.be/yourvideolink
Start with scale.
Your table should complement the room rather than overwhelm it. Leave at least 36 inches of clearance on every side so guests can move comfortably. In tighter rooms, a pedestal base creates more visual openness and offers flexible seating.
Shape sets the tone.
Each shape has its strengths:
Round tables encourage conversation and create intimacy.
Rectangular tables anchor longer rooms and feel traditional.
Oval tables blend both qualities beautifully and suit transitional homes.
Choose the shape that best aligns with how you gather.
Prioritize comfort.
Aim for 22–24 inches of space per seat so guests don’t feel crowded. Consider chair height, armrests, and how chairs tuck in. A table can look stunning, but if it’s uncomfortable, people won’t linger - and lingering is where connection happens.
Pedestal vs. legs: consider the flow.
Pedestal bases allow more seating flexibility and create a cleaner silhouette. However, tables with oversized pedestal bases can inhibit leg space.
Tables with legs offer a classic look but require thoughtful placement of chairs. Your room layout and hosting style determine which option works best.
Style should support the home, not dictate it.
Your dining table should complement the architecture and design of your home. In many of our projects, we balance traditional millwork with softly modern silhouettes to create a refined, welcoming atmosphere.
Choose a table that invites people in.
More than anything, a dining table should feel livable. It should welcome homework sessions, weeknight dinners, and holiday gatherings alike. The right table supports your daily life, not just the life you want to present.
A well-chosen dining table becomes part of the family story, grounding the room in comfort, connection, and quiet luxury.