Whether you’re having a quiet meal at home or throwing a fancy dinner party with friends, you need dining room furniture that fits your needs. The staff at House of Kustom have matched many homeowners with their perfect dining room table in Fairbanks, AK. They’ve shared a buying guide below to help you know what to consider as you shop for a table.

What to Consider When Shopping for Dining Room Furniture

Material

The material you choose will depend on the durability you need and the style you prefer. For example, glass tables are good for families with children because they are scratch-resistant and it’s easy to wipe up spills. Glass also creates more visual space, so it’s good for making small dining rooms feel larger. Metal tables are very durable and good for an industrial design.

Solid wood furniture is the most popular. Choose your wood type based on your style. Dark woods like walnut or mahogany provide an elegant and traditional style, while reclaimed wood is best for a contemporary style. If you need extra durability, acacia or suar are good options and are often used for outdoor tables.

Size

The size of your dining room or the size of your family may decide the size of your dining table. Measure the space you have available; plan to leave at least 36 inches of space between the table edge and the walls or other furniture. A typical four-top table is 48 inches long, while a six-top is 60 inches long, and an eight-top is 72 inches long. It’s recommended that you get a tabletop that’s at least 36 inches across to comfortably fit table settings on either side and place food in the middle. Any narrower, and it may start to feel cramped.

Shape

A rectangular table is best if you have more than four people to sit on a regular basis. If you have four or less, you could opt for a square or round table. A square table takes up more space but creates a more formal feel. Many square tables also come with a removable leaf that allows you to extend the table into a rectangle when you have extra guests. Round tables are good for a small room since they don’t have corners to bump into and create a more intimate, informal feeling.

When you’re ready to start shopping for quality dining room furniture, go to House of Kustom. They’ve been the premier furniture store of the area since 1972 and carry an extensive array of the finest home furniture lines. You may find your inspiration browsing through their impressive showroom, and their staff will gladly help you choose the best table for your needs. Preview their inventory online or call (907) 456-5321 to ask any questions you have.