Think Out of the Box With Dining Room Tables
Meals are important for families; they nurture not only the bodies but also the hearts. Mealtime is not only an opportunity to relax and eat a hot, filling dinner, but also a time to be filled in on the stories that each family member can share for that day. That is why no matter how busy or hectic schedules are, there should really be a time set for a proper dinner, done in the manner of really sitting down and gathering around the table. These days dining is an overlooked bonding opportunity. And yet, this experience could be enhanced even more with an adequate dining room table that will satisfy all the requirements of a terrific mealtime experience.
A dining table is not only an ordinary thick slab of wood on which plates of food are placed upon; its dimensions and construction can be made to match what a family's specific needs are. Its aesthetic and design will greatly affect the mood of a dinner or the entire home. Determine which style or kind of dining table is right for the family by becoming familiar with the shapes and materials usually used for these special furniture pieces:
Choose a Dining Table According to Shape
Yes, a dining table does not necessarily need corners! Choose a table according to the size of the room or house, and also the number of people who would regularly be sitting down around it. After all, there are families that are no stranger to entertaining guests frequently. The dining table should be able to live up to that extra duty. Here's a rundown of the ideal situations for each table shape:
Round Dining Table - Circular tables are popular in Asian aesthetic sensibilities because its shape promotes unity. Circular tables make a cramped room friendlier to the eye; the round shape flows pleasantly along the line of vision. Although the shape is usually applied to corner tables, a round dining table can also be ideal for homes that do not have actual dining rooms (where the dining table will be placed near the kitchen area, or the living area).
Oval Dining Table - Large oval tables display an air of regality and elegance, so they are the best choice for houses with a large dining room, and an equally large family or frequent number of guests. Heirloom or special tablecloths look attractive draped over a large oval table, and can be held in place by a customized glass table top as an option.
Square Dining Table - A square table construction would be ideal for a couple without kids, or a small family of up to four people. Square tables are usually built small, so they are ideal within space-constricted dining areas. They are also quite mobile compared to other types. They might not be quite ideal for households that entertain a lot, or who regularly dine in a long room.
Rectangle Dining Table - This is the most common shape for the dining room's main piece. A rectangle table can give a linear, organized feel to a regular room, and would be great for families with several kids or extended members like uncles or cousins (parents can sit on either end). Having a rectangular table also means never having to worry for buffet space come Christmas or Thanksgiving time.
Choose a Dining Table According to Material
After choosing the size and dimensions of an ideal dining table, the next step is to consider the materials it will be constructed from. As with other furniture types, a dining table will have options like glass, plastic, or wood. Genuine solid hardwood, as opposed to mass produced plywood, will always be the best choice for dining room tables, or any furniture for that matter. Genuine wood is strong, and will last for generations and hundreds of meals and occasions to come. Skilled carpenters can make any wood table beautiful and sophisticated because it can be created with arresting carved patterns, or special leg designs. Leaving the wood raw and undone, or applying a special finish, will create or add depth to the beauty of the wood. Having a finely constructed table within the dining room and the home can instantly provide a lived in and stylish atmosphere to the space. Dining will be a much more enjoyable affair, conversation will flow through more easily, and mealtime's goal of bringing the family closer together will be met.
Popular examples of solid hard wood are cherry, oak, or maple. These trees are grown in forests and harvested by wood companies that strictly follow a replanting scheme. Getting a table made of genuine wood also means taking a further step towards conserving Mother Nature. A table made of solid wood material uses less toxic and artificial materials like glue or paint. It will also last for a long time, saving costs and resources for repair or replacement. And since its appearance is classic, it will be fondly used for years and years to come.
Whether it will be used in a modern home, or maybe a traditionally-styled set up, there will always be room for a beautiful dining table in the house. With the right choices and decisions, a striking dining table will always beckon and encourage the family members to sit down and enjoy the food while enjoying each other's company as well.
