Table size & space guidelines

There are a few things to consider when choosing your table size and style. You need a table that fits the right amount of people and your space. And ideally, there should be room to relax at the table or walk around it with others seated. Here are a few tips to help you measure your space and choose the right table size.

SEATING CAPACITY

How many people will fit at my table? This is determined by several factors like table size and shape, chair width, table leg placement, tabletop overhang, etc. You’ll need to consider all these things, but here’s a general breakdown of table sizes and corresponding seating capacities:

  • We generally recommend allowing 24 inches of space per person seated at your table. You can go less, but it starts getting tight.
  • Allow a minimum of 2 inches (tight) to 6+ inches (roomy) between chairs
  • Consider placement of table legs and overhang (distance from tabletop edge to the legs or table base) when determining seating capacity and chair placement

STANdard table dimensions

Table length

The long sides or edges of your table top. This is the main measurement that will determine your table size and seating capacity. We offer customizable tables between 72 – 120 inches long (in 2 inch increments), or you can place a custom order if you need specific, unique dimensions.

Table height

Dining Tables & Office Tables – 30”
Counter Height Tables – 36”
Bar Height/Standing Tables – 42”
Console Tables  (Entry, Foyer, Sofa Tables) – 29-33”
Coffee Tables – 16-18”
Side/End Tables – 13-17”

table shapes

Similarly to table size, your dining room or space should also be considered. Both the dimensions and shape or flow of the room.

Rectangular tables come in many different lengths and widths, making them very adaptable. The rectangle shape also fits the shape and flow of most rooms.

Round tables make good use of space, especially in smaller spots, and allow for easy group conversation. No corners also makes it easy to pull up another seat.

table depth (or width)

The shorter sides (or ends) of your table top. Our customizable tables run between 32 – 48 inches deep (in 2 inch increments).

While many tables out there are closer to 36” or under, 40” or more gives you adequate room for serving dishes, centerpieces or decor.

  • The standard recommended height for a dining table is 30 inches (see more table heights below)
  • Overall height measurements include the table top
  • Consider dining chair height (including chair arms if applicable) to make sure they fit under the table
  • Many of our standard table options are available at dining height (30 inches), “a little taller” (31 inches), counter height (36 inches), and bar height (42 inches). Or you can get a custom height table made.

Measuring & Space Guidelines

Measure the room where your table will go

Find the dimensions of your room with a measuring tape or laser measure tool. Take note of these measurements. 

Leave adequate space around your table

We recommended allowing 36 inches or more between the edge of your table and the wall or other furniture. This leaves room for someone to walk behind the chairs while others are seated.

Make sure there is enough room to pull chairs out from the table. You’ll need at least 18 – 24 inches clearance just to pull chairs out.

42-48 inches is the most ideal clearance between the table and a wall if you have the space to do it.

Ideally, you’ll want 48 inches clearance between the table and any doorways or entryways.

Rug size vs. table size

If you’re planning to place a rug under your table, it should be large enough to fit both the table itself and ideally all the legs of the chairs. To do this, plan for your rug to extend 24 inches or more from each side of the table.

Example: For a table 6 feet long (72 inches) x 3 feet wide (36 inches), the rug should be approximately 10 feet long (120 inches) x 7 feet wide (84 inches) to give you the most ideal rug space for your table.

Hanging a light fixture or chandelier above your table?

Whether you’re considering a chandelier, pendant lighting, or some other light fixture, it should be hung approximately 30 inches above the tabletop to provide adequate lighting and keep sight lines open across the table.

Access/Moving Your Table In

You’ll want to make sure the table will fit not only in its final spot, but also the pathways and entryways leading to its final location.

Please consider any entryways, doorways, hallways, stairwells, elevators, corridors, or other obstacles the item may need to fit through or around. We want to help accommodate you in every way possible, but you, the customer, are ultimately responsible for ensuring that the item will fit into your space


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