Small dining space? We feel you. Eating every meal on your lap on the couch in front of the television sounds romantic, but it gets old real fast. Finding the right dining table for your small space — whether it be an eat-in kitchen or a “cozy” (realtor-speak) dining area — is challenging, so we have rounded up some options to help make your search a little easier.
The first step in choosing the right small dining table is determining what shape serves your space best. Thankfully the options are few: Rectangle; square; circle; oval. The dimensions and shape of your space will determine the answer for you: if your space is long and narrow you will want a rectangle or an oval, and if your space is square you can go circle or, well, square. But beware the square: It will only work if four or less people are dining, which makes it a good option if you already have a dining table and want another one for casual, everyday meals in your kitchen. And with a circle, bear in mind its size: they take up more space than they appear considering they are the same diameter all around, so they need some meaningful clearance. And now … onto the goods![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Circular Tables
Asplund Palais Royal Dining Table, $3,187
This elegant columnar table is perfect for dressing up a smaller space or showcasing dining chairs.
Saarinen Dining Table, From $2,310
With sizes ranging from 35″ to 96″, this enduring design classic by Eero Saarinen can fit just about any space, but it’s especially great for small dining spaces. the base is sculptural yet airy. Designed in 1956 for the TWA terminal at JFK Airport, and manufactured by Knoll.
Annaway Dining Table,
Small space, big impact. Bring some drama to your small space with this on-trend table from Anthropologie, featuring timely design elements: a marble surface and a sculptural yet curvy base. In powder-coated metal with a grey-veined marble top. At 46 inches in diameter, the Annaway Table will comfortably yet compactly seat 4.
Rectangle Tables
Ikea Ekedalen Extendable table, $299
The quintessential Ikea extendable table, available in white, black or brown. With an extension panel stored under the table surface. Best of all, this table is perfect as a neutral backdrop for showcasing dining chairs.
Square Tables
Oval Tables
Menu Snaregarde Oval Table $1,891
Menu’s distinctive base of interlaced steel rods is designed to maximize seating room, and comes with round and rectangular options as well. We particularly like the oval version for the contrast between the hard metal legs and the soft curve of the top. Also, as it is not a deep oval, it can double as a desk. A great small space option at 210 centimeters, it can seat up to 6.
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Originally published Nov 21, 2019 and updated July 12, 2020.