Dining tables for small spaces can pose a real problem. When space is short then a large dining table just isn’t practical. (And even a small one can be a tight fit).
That said, when we get together with friends and family it’s lovely if we can sit around a table to eat. Shared meals are one of life’s greatest pleasures, after all. And let’s face it, nowadays the dining table is for much more than just eating. It’s where we work from home, sit for a chat and a coffee, or where homework gets done. So is it possible to have our cake (or dinner) and eat it too?
I think so. Here’s my round-up of the most stylish and versatile contemporary dining tables for small spaces. (And for slightly larger ones too).
Contemporary extending dining tables for small spaces
To start, here are some extending dining tables for small spaces. They’re the classic way to save space, and open up to accommodate extra diners when you have company.
- First off, the very handsome Belgrave Extending Dining Table, above. We love that its design is beautifully solid and luxurious and round dining tables work extremely well in small spaces. The extention is hidden away inside the table and unfolds quickly and easily to accomodate extra guests.
2. In contrast, here’s a more minimal, contemporary dining table that’s perfect for small spaces. The Bramante Square Extending Dining Table, above, in high gloss grey lacquer, has a simple aluminium slide mechanism that opens to reveal extension leaves inside – a real bonus when space is at a premium. (We have a lovely wooden dining table with heavy and bulky extension sections that have to be stored separately. Something we didn’t take into consideration when we bought it – lesson learned).
3. For fans of classic, wooden extendable dining tables, I chose the Mira Extending Dining Table above. It features beautiful styling details and an internal leaf that extends the table for extra guests.
Designed by Danish furniture designer Ebbe Gehl, again for John Lewis, this stylish mid-century Scandi-style dining table is made from solid, oiled oak and has tapered legs, rounded edges and clean contemporary lines.
Round dining tables for small spaces
Round dining tables are a great choice when you’re short on space, as the lack of corners gives you precious extra inches around the table.
4. The Marks and Spencer LOFT range was designed specifically for small living spaces, and the Bradshaw Dining Table, above, is both petite and stylish. The white top is paired with real oak leg frame, and matches other pieces in the Bradshaw range.
5. Designed by Wales and Wales for John Lewis, the ‘Radar’ round dining table fuses traditional warm walnut tones with sleek, contemporary curved lines. Just gorgeous.
Round drop leaf dining tables for small spaces
If your small round dining table also has drop leaves, then it’s the ultimate space saver. Just fold it right up and push back against a wall when not in use.
6. The compact, round Suki Folding Dining Table, above and below, from Habitat is made from solid oak and oak veneer with a matt black top, and has two drop leaves. It’s also available with a white top.
7. The mid-century inspired Originals Drop Leaf Table by Ercol from Heal’s is an absolute design classic. Small is very definitely beautiful.
Round pedestal dining tables for small spaces
We’re finishing off with round dining tables with a pedestal style base, as these are an ideal solution for small spaces, both practically and aesthetically. There are no table legs for chairs to get tangled in and the streamlined shape gives an illusion of lightness and space around the table.
8. A clear glass top and black marble pedestal combine to give a sophisticated, contemporary feel to the Enzo 4-Seater Round Glass Top Dining Table, from John Lewis & Partners
9. Equally contemporary but with the warmth of wood, how about the Lance 4-Seater Round Dining Table? The top if made from a light, oak veneer and the base is white metal. There’s also an all-white version too.
10. Oh my! Black marble! Brass! We love the Bimba Round 4-Seat Dining Table from MADE. We always say small space living doesn’t mean going short on style, and this is the proof. Maybe we can have our cake and eat it after all.
Images: brands and retailers as credited above
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