The dining table is an important feature in every luxury home, and a place where family can come together to share stories from their days and where guests can gather for an evening of good food and wine and great conversation.
With this in mind, getting your set-up just right is essential, particularly if you enjoy hosting dinner parties for larger groups – but if you’re working with limited space, it can be tricky to ensure there is enough seating available for everyone. If your floor plan doesn’t allow for a large bench set-up or for multiple chairs around the table on a day-to-day basis, then trying to cram one in can result in a cluttered look and feel that’s a far cry from the minimalistic luxury vibe you’ve tried so hard to create – so what exactly is the solution?
Well, that’s where the extendable dining table comes in, offering a space-saving solution that expands to provide plenty of room for everyone when you need it. Allowing you to maintain that hard-won luxury aesthetic with a smart and sophisticated table for four throughout the week, when those special occasions roll around, you can simply extend your table, add a few extra chairs, and you’re good to go.
If you’re not yet convinced, then here’s all you need to know about extendable dining tables. Once you invest in one, you’ll never want to go back.
What exactly is an extendable dining table?
Extendable dining tables are versatile pieces of furniture that will quickly turn seating for four people into space for six, or even eight. Extensions, known as leaves which are designed to match the visible part of the table, remain hidden inside the table structure on a day-to-day basis, and fold out as and when required, with supporting legs also folding out from underneath.
Extendable tables are available with three kinds of leaves. Butterfly leaves are attached in the middle of the table, while drop leaves can be found at either end of an extendable dining table. The latter are often found on smaller tables, so if you’re looking for a particularly space-saving solution, then this is it.
There are also tables that feature removable leaves, which can be added and taken away as required.
What are the benefits of an extendable dining table?
Sustainable extending dining tables are saviours for those who are short on space. If you like to invite small groups of friends around for dinner, then a small extendable dining table will provide all the space you need to seat them – you’ll just need to add some extra chairs. When the extendable element of your table is not in use, the leaves can be tucked away and your table can be pushed against a wall to allow for plenty of free movement around the rest of the room.
Extendable dining tables are considered multi-purpose and are extremely versatile pieces of furniture. They can be used as a desk or workstation while working from home, before instantly transforming and elongating, just in time for dinner.
And of course, today’s modern designs offer plenty of aesthetic appeal, too. Extendable tables are without a doubt functional and are available in various shapes and sizes, but they are also pleasing to the eye. And, as you’ll find different styles and designs made from wood, metal, and alternative sustainable materials, you’ll find something to suit all tastes and rooms.
White oak or durable walnut wood offer a great aesthetic and are ideal for any luxury dining room. They’re also extremely durable choices that will last you for many years to come.
And best of all, a quality extendable dining table will never lose its value, so consider it a sound investment for your home. Should you ever wish to sell it in the future, then you should always be able to get a good price for it.
How to choose the right extendable dining table
To choose the perfect extendable dining table for your home, you must first have an idea of the seating capacity you need. Even when the table is extended, you’ll need plenty of space for people to get in and out of their seats or move around the table to serve, so be sure to bear this in mind and don’t go for anything bigger than your kitchen or dining room can readily accommodate. You’ll also need to consider how the space will feel when you’ve added chairs around the table.
Choose a durable material that is in keeping with your current design aesthetic, and decide on a shape. Round and oval tables are great for creating a more sociable feel, while rectangular extendable dining tables are great for more formal meals and special occasions.
