You can sink hours and hours into finding the perfect dining table, only to discover once it arrives it's not the right fit for your space.
Understanding what to prioritise from the start is of the utmost importance to avoid a mismatched or cumbersome addition to your home. You might be asking yourself:
How do I find a dining table suitable for tight spaces like Hong Kong?
What functionality factors should I prioritise?
Is an extendable dining table best?
Which material suits my needs?
How do I determine the ideal seating capacity for my new table?
Where can I find the best available options?
Choice is a funny thing. We love the luxury of choosing items, but it means that now more than ever, making informed decisions about essential homeware like your dining table is paramount.
In this guide, we'll delve into some key considerations so that you can select a dining table that ticks all your boxes and works with the flow of your home.
How Do I Choose the Perfect Dining Table?
When it comes to selecting the ideal dining table, it's not just about aesthetics; it's about ensuring harmony with the flow of your dining room.
Of course, the perfect dining set is something different for everyone. YOu may be set on a solid wood dining table but the real question you should be asking revolves around size, dimensions, and shape, which we will explore below.
Beyond that, one easy way to kick-start this process is by identifying the decor style your home follows. Observe the other homeware in your space or the furnishing styles you are naturally drawn to.
This initial step can significantly narrow down your search, ensuring that the table you choose complements your existing interior style seamlessly.
How do I Determine the Size of My Dining Table Should Be?
When it comes to dining tables, size is everything! Too small, and your dining area might not fit your functions; too big, and it can dominate the room.
There's a science or an art to getting it just right so that you maximise the area you have, have enough seats, and can enjoy meals comfortably.
Space Considerations:
Measure your dining area accurately: Measure the length and width of your dining area using a measuring tape. Be wary of any architectural details that might affect the placement of your dining table.
Leave room for movement: Consider the scale of your dining area in relation to the size of your dining table. A good rule of thumb is to leave approximately 90 centimetres of walkable space around all sides of the table. This doesn't just allow you to move around it easily but makes for a more comfortable space to sit in. Even if you place your dining table against a wall, keep this in mind.
Don't forget the chairs: When you're choosing your dining table and tinkering with the size, don't forget that your dining chairs will also factor in! Leave ample room for them to be pulled out, and ensure they're the right height to tuck neatly under your dining table.
Seating Capacity and Table Dimensions:
Guidelines for sizing tables based on the number of seats: Whether you host elaborate meals with friends or just need a dining set for two, you'll have to decide in advance how many people you want seated at the table. A general rule is to allow approximately 60 centimetres of table width per person.
Practical examples: Use these dimensions to consider dining table sets for different capacities. In some cases you may want to explore an extendable dining table, for changing needs.
Dimensions of dining table for four
Table width: 91 to 122 centimetres
Table length: 122 to 183 centimetres
Dimensions of dining table for six
Table width: 122 to 152 centimeters
Table length: 183 to 244 centimeters
Dimensions of dining table for eight
Table width: 152 to 183 centimetres
Table length: 244 to 305 centimetres
Dimensions of dining table for ten
Table width: Approximately 183 to 213 centimeters
Table length: Approximately 305 to 366 centimeters
What Shape Dining Table Is Best?
Once you've determined the approximate size of your dining table, you might ask yourself, 'Why choose a round dining table?' or 'Why choose a long dining table?'
Dining table shapes not only affect the visual aspect of a space but also change the flow of dinner conversations and how meal times unfold.
That's why it can be harder than choosing a size, which is often limited to the space you can work with.
What are the different types of dining table shapes most commonly found? The usual suspects are round, rectangular and square.
However, nowadays, you may find more modern shapes, like long oval or organic-edged tables that curve naturally.
When settling on a dining table shape, there are benefits and considerations beyond just the looks. Here are some advantages and potential drawbacks to consider
The Pros and Cons of Round Dining Tables
Benefits:
Encourages intimate conversations: With no head or foot on the table, everyone seated has an equal opportunity to engage at round dining tables.
Maximises space: Ideal for smaller dining areas, round dining tables allow for efficient use of space without sharp corners to navigate around.
Versatile seating arrangement: Round dining tables can accommodate a varying number of guests. For those late-minute additions to the party, you can easily squeeze a chair in.
Considerations:
Limited surface area: Round dining tables typically have less surface area compared to rectangular or square tables.
Challenging placement: Its circular shape may pose challenges should you ever wish to position the table against a wall.
The Pros and Cons of Rectangle Dining Tables
Benefits:
Classic and timeless: Rectangular dining tables are the traditional choice. That's because they work well in most dining spaces, offering ample surface area for food and decor.
Efficient use of space: The elongated shape of rectangular and long oval dining tables efficiently uses the available floor space in a dining area. This also means you can accommodate more guests compared to round or square tables of similar dimensions.
Considerations:
Less inclusive seating: The elongated shape may create a sense of hierarchy, with individuals seated at the ends potentially feeling less connected to the rest of the group. Conversations happen more in sections rather than across the span of the table.
Requires more space: Rectangular dining tables typically require more floor space compared to round or square tables, making them less suitable for smaller dining areas.
The Pros and Cons of Square Dining Tables
Benefits:
Promotes intimacy: Similar to round dining tables, square dining tables facilitate intimate conversations by placing all guests at an equal distance from one another.
Ideal for small spaces: Square dining tables are an excellent choice for small dining areas, as they can be pushed against a wall or positioned in a corner to maximise space.
Considerations:
Limited seating capacity: Square dining tables may not accommodate as many guests as rectangular tables of the same size, potentially limiting their use for larger gatherings.
Uneven seating arrangement: The square shape may result in uneven seating, with individuals seated at the corners having less elbow room than those sitting along the sides.
Ultimately, the best shape for your dining table in Hong Kong depends on your personal preferences, the size and layout of your dining area, and the atmosphere you wish to create during meals.
You can rank what matters to you most. For example, if you prioritise space-saving over the number of seats available, then a round dining table may be the choice for you. If both space-saving and seating are concerns, an extendable dining table may be the thing!
Both round and rectangle dining tables offer extendable solutions these days, and they are, of course, nifty if you don't want to sacrifice your ability to entertain large groups and keep your space feeling more open during your day-to-day.
What Material Do I Choose For My Dining Table?
Dining tables come in many different finishes these days! While a classic wood grain has its charm, it might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Homeware designers have long been experimenting with the form and material to create unique dining sets that feel like sculptures in their own right. Here are some materials you can consider:
Wood Dining Tables
A timeless choice, different woods can offer a distinct look for dining table sets. Ash wood is most suited to Japandi homes, whereas black walnut may be suited to more industrial-style interiors.
Any solid wood table provides a touch of warmth to any space but may require regular maintenance to preserve it.
Metal Dining Tables
Metal dining tables deliver a sleek, modern look that is just oh-so-cool. Not only are they highly durable, but they are also easy to clean. Do keep in mind, though, that they are prone to scratches and dents over time.
Plastic Dining Tables
Your mind might go to that flimsy white plastic outdoor dining table in Hong Kong, but rest assured; there are some elegant plastic dining tables out there!
Not only are they low maintenance and can be used outdoors, but you could even take the eco-friendly route and opt for a recycled plastic dining table. Often more affordable and resistant, it makes them a good choice for families with young kids.
Tempered Glass Dining Tables
A sophisticated choice for any dining area. Tempered glass is ideal for tiny Hong Kong homes that want to appear less cramped as they let light pass through them. On the upside, they are easy to clean, but on the downside, they are prone to scratches and fingerprints.
Acrylic Dining Tables
If you love the look of glass but can't stomach the scratches, acrylic dining tables may be just the thing for you! They are lightweight and more durable than glass; plus, if you're a fan of colours, they are offered in way more options for your palette.
Composite Material Dining Tables
Composite materials are laminates or engineered wood. They offer durability and versatility at a much lower cost than solid wood dining tables. Most affordable dining tables, like ones from Ikea, use composite materials, making them an inexpensive and easy-to-elevate choice.
Concrete Dining Tables
Concrete dining tables are certainly a contemporary choice and are most commonly seen with industrial aesthetics. They have a unique and textured surface that adds depth to any dining area but are highly porous, so you'll have to be careful with spills.
Marble Dining Tables
Marble dining tables sit at the height of luxury, but naturally, that comes at more than just a monetary cost. While beautiful, marble dining tables demand continual special care to prevent staining and etching.
Stone Dining Tables
Natural stones, such as granite or quartz, are statement pieces in the dining room! They are as durable as they are visually stunning dining tables, are often very heavy and thus require professional installation.
Resin Dining Tables
Resin dining tables are all about the high glass factor. They are often paired with natural woods to make a colourful mix of materials. They are durable, easy to clean, and come in a variety of colours.
Bamboo Dining Tables
Bamboo dining tables in Hong Kong are a choice for those interested in eco-friendly and sustainable options. Much like wood, they offer warmth and texture to the dining space and, additionally, are less prone to moisture damage. Making them ideal for Hong Kong homes battling humidity!
Naturally, each of these materials comes with different caveats. Particularly when it comes to pricing. Stone dining tables are often more pricey, while composite wood dining tables remain accessible to the masses.
When settling on which materials you want to commit to, don't just consider the aesthetics but factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, timelessness and reaction to humidity.
What's The Optimal Dining Table Height?
Often, people are so focused on the length and width of their dining table that they don't even consider its height.
But height is an important feature when it comes to comfort and functionality. A standard dining table height should range from 71 to 76 centimetres. This accommodates most dining chair designs and allows you to sit comfortably at mealtime.
Any table height lower than 71 cm may require uncomfortable bending, while tables above 76 cm mean you can't comfortably rest your elbows, though some may debate this is bad table manners anyway! But we're not here to debate dining table etiquette!
If you struggle to decide between heights, take cues from your dining chair. Most importantly, if your dining set has armrests, be sure they easily nestle under the table.
How Do I Pick a Dining Table For Small Spaces?
When dealing with homes in Hong Kong, where every centimetre counts, making room for a dining area requires even more thoughtfulness. This is because dining rooms in Hong Kong are never merely just dining rooms.
Our dining areas often share a space with the living room and the kitchen. This also makes our dining spaces multifunctional - A spot for breakfast in the morning and then a place for kids to do homework in the evenings.
Here are two things to keep in mind when choosing a dining table in Hong Kong for small homes:
Consider An Extendable Dining Table: Extendable dining tables are a popular choice in Hong Kong, where space-saving design is almost always a must. They allow you to adjust the size of your dining table based on your needs at a given moment.
This could mean that during the week, you can have enough space for a family of four, but on the weekends, you can expand your dining table to accommodate a party of eight people.
Maximising Your Dining Space: Along with an extendable dining table, consider other solutions like bench seating. This allows you to accommodate more people at once without adding more individual chairs, which can take up more space.
On top of that, to create a grander sense of space, place a mirror on a wall of your dining areas to help reflect light and create the feeling of a bigger, more open room.
How Much Does a Dining Table in Hong Kong Cost?
If price is your concern, various factors can influence the cost of a dining table in Hong Kong, including material, design, size, and brand.
On average, the regular price for a standard dining table can range from HKD 2,000 to HKD 20,000. This range typically reflects the original price set by retailers.
It is common to find special offers and discounts that significantly reduce these costs.
During promotional periods, the special price for a dining table can drop by 20%-50% off the original price. For instance, a dining table with an original price of HKD 5,000 might be available for a special price of HKD 2,500 to HKD 4,000.
To ensure you get the best deal, keep an eye on seasonal sales and promotions, as these can offer major savings on the regular price of dining tables in Hong Kong.
Working with a home decorator can also make a difference when looking for discounts on the regular price. With insider access, they can leverage a corporate-only special price on everything from solid wood tables to tempered glass tables.
What Are The Latest Dining Table Trends?
Just like other homeware designs, dining tables in Hong Kong have their trendy moments too. Here are some of the latest trends shaping the world of dining tables in different homes:
Imperfect Dining Tables
Embracing imperfection has been on the rise with wabi-sabi interiors, and that's materialised itself in dining tables, too. Often made from natural materials like wood or stone, they showcase every bump and texture, adding a landscape of different finishes to the dining space.
Sustainable Dining Tables
Sustainability in the home can no longer be ignored. It's often a conversation around the food we eat, so naturally, dining tables come to mind.
Embracing eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices is becoming more prevalent, along with crafting for durability. These tables not only reduce environmental impact but also add a sense of responsibility to your dining area.
Chocolate Warm Tones
Warm tones reminiscent of chocolate and terracotta hues are making a comeback in the dining room space. Naturally rich and inviting colours like these add instant warmth and depth to the dining space, creating a cosy atmosphere for gatherings.
Curvy Table Tops
Curved edges and flowing lines are becoming increasingly popular in dining table designs. They create a sense of softness and fluidity that harsh, straight lines don't accomplish.
Statement Styling
Beyond the table itself, styling elements around the dining table are also making waves. Statement dining chairs in bold colours or mismatched shapes, paired with quirky rugs and bold overhead lighting fixtures—all the fun elements to add personality and flair to the dining room.
Where Can I Find Dining Tables in Hong Kong
If you're looking for a dining table in Hong Kong for your home and want to go beyond the typical Ikea options, visit our ultimate Hong Kong homeware guide.
This comprehensive list includes some of our favourite retailers' showrooms and online stores to buy dining tables in Hong Kong.
If your space is very particular or you find that nothing in Hong Kong meets your needs, why not try creating a custom dining table? This allows you to personalise it to your home and ensure it matches the rest of your decor perfectly.
For custom dining tables in Hong Kong, look no further than:
Wood Artisan: They offer custom-crafted Japanese-style furnishings to suit your needs. This includes unique Japanese-style dining tables that seamlessly integrate with the ground.
Decor 8: With bespoke wood homeware and other furnishings, Decor 8 understand that not only do Hong Kong homes require space-saving solutions, but they also take into consideration how pieces can fit into your lift or stairwell for delivery.
Nook Living: With a selection of customisable dining tables, Nook Living can create a piece that matches your materials requirements and size with ease.
DSL Furniture: For one-of-a-kind pieces that are sketched from your imagination, DSL can help make them a reality. They can also modify existing designs if you already have a dining table that needs some reworking.
OVO: Luxury brand OVO prides itself on top-quality materials and design, and its custom furnishings and dining tables are all made with fine craftsmanship.
If you're still struggling to choose the perfect dining table but the custom route isn't an option, worry not! The Editors Company provides expert guidance in home decor to assist you throughout your home redesign process. That includes:
Finding the right dining table for smaller spaces
Helping balance the right size, material and shapes for your dining table in Hong Kong
Sourcing versatile extendable dining tables in Hong Kong
Helping to determine the optimal seating capacity for your space
Access to an extensive network of suppliers and retailers in Hong Kong
Looking for more than a new table? Transform your home without the stress of searching, price matching, organising or making decisions alone.
With The Editors Company's home decorators, you don't have to do it alone or second guess yourself.
For just HKD 5,600 per room, we handle every aspect of your home makeover, from meticulous planning to seamless execution.
That way, you know everything from your couch to your dining table in Hong Kong is just right; sit back and watch as your dream home comes to life without lifting a finger.
Ready to embark on your home decor journey? Take our home-style quiz today!
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