A dining table is often the centrepiece of a home. It’s where people gather, connect, and spend time so getting the design right matters. If you are considering a custom dining table piece, here’s some practical thoughts on how to approach it.
STYLE:
Firstly, before thinking about style, consider the room itself. Start with the space as it sits today and how it may in the future.
Consider how much space do you have, how many people need to sit comfortably and what else is in the room that may impede access or restrict sizing. Think about doors, windows, cabinets and walkways.
As a guide:
- Allow at least 900–1000 mm clearance around the table for easy access
- Ensure enough room for chairs to move freely
- In relation to length, allow 500 – 600 mm per person
Also, don’t forget to consider the longevity or life cycle of the table too. My custom dining tables are designed and made to last, potentially getting handed down to family as heirloom pieces. Got young kids? They are going to grow up and require more space, partners may show up down in the future or perhaps you like to entertain. So, if an 1800 mm long table suits now, but you’ve got room for a 2400 mm long it may be worth going larger now.
SHAPE:
Secondly, choose the right shape for your room. The shape of your table has a big impact on how the space feels and how it can be used.
Rectangular is the classic shape that remains the most common. It’s versatile and can be softened with soft curves to the top or edge profiles to add a truly bespoke feel to the piece. Rectangle dining tables are best for larger rooms and where seating more people is important.
Round tables are a great option in the right room that allows creative pedestal base designs. Round tables are great for smaller or square spaces or areas with walkways as there’s no square edges to knock. into. They also encourage conversation so are an entertainer’s delight.
Square dining tables work well in compact dining areas. They are best suited for smaller table designs and in tight spaces like apartments.
BASE DESIGN:
The base effects both aesthetics and functionality.
Options include:
- Four legs. This is the classic table leg style, so you know it’s not a passing trend. It’s a really flexible base style that allows for many design options such as flush fit tops, shadow lines and exposed joinery.
- Pedestal bases are great for providing open leg room all around the table.
- Custom feature style bases that include organic shapes or something truly unique to the buyer.
TIMBER:
Timber Selection matters as it defines how the piece feels and sits in your space. A key consideration is do you want to match existing furniture or have a bold contrast that makes a statement or draws the viewers attention. The timber you choose defines the overall feel of a piece.
For example:
- Lighter timbers suit modern, airy spaces. I recommend using sustainably sourced timbers such as American Oak or Tasmanian Oak when seeking a lighter timber. They offer a cleaner look then reclaimed hardwoods, and often feature amazing grain lines.
- Darker timbers are on trend. The provide a richer, more grounded feel. Pair it with a black base and some texture to create a huge statement.
- Reclaimed timber is full of character and texture but comes with a distinctive look. Reclaimed timbers remain popular due to their character and sustainability ethos.
THINK ABOUT EVERYDAY USE
A dining table should suit your lifestyle, not just how you use it every day but how you use it on those odd occasions too.
Consider:
- Do you entertain often?
- Do you need durability for kids or heavy use? Hardwax oils a great finish as they are easy to maintain and repairable. Read about them here. Maintenance varies and depends on use, care, and climate however on average re-coating is only required every 3 – 5 years. If the surface is in good condition, an application of a maintenance oil is all that may be required to rejuvenate your piece.
MAKE IT PERSONAL:
Let’s face it, you are reaching out because you want something distinctively ‘you’. Something that can’t be bought from the big box retailers. This is where custom furniture stands apart.
You can incorporate:
- Meaningful materials
- Specific dimensions to suit your space perfectly
- Unique design features such as a rectangle top with slightly curved edges, round overs or inlays to truly mark it as ‘custom made’.
The goal isn’t just to fill a space – it’s to create something that belongs in it. When elements align, the result is a piece that feels effortless in the space.
Working with a maker early in the process can make all the difference. It helps you refine ideas, understand what’s possible and create something that truly fits your home. I specialise in bespoke dining tables, custom cabinets and one-off statement pieces. Whether you’re looking for a custom dining table or a bespoke statement piece, we can design, build, and deliver to your location Australia wide.