The dining table is amongst the most adorable furniture in every home and commercial area as that is where families, friends and guests eat, and get to know one another better. It’s one of the furniture that’s being used daily either for meals, or connectivity with self or others.
The demand for dining tables is large and varied. If you want to get involved in this industry, you must have the required knowledge to manage your supply chain and improve sales skills, which we will be dishing out in this post. Everything that’s needed to be known including what a dining table is, the parts, the history, the standard height, the applications, the types, the styles, and the factors to consider when making a choice will be discussed. Also, you will get to know how to find trusted dining table factories.
What is a Dining Table
A dining table is a piece of furniture on which meals are served. It is used in homes, commercial settings, events, and virtually every place where people meet to eat, hang out, and even have business meetings. It assists in fostering a better relationship between families and friends as they bond together over a meal.
Dining Room Table Parts
A dining table is a simple piece of furniture that’s composed of a few parts. Described below are the parts of a dining table.
Dining Table Tops
The top of the dining table is where meals are placed and eaten. It can be made with various materials and in several styles. The popular materials they are made with are wood, metal, glass, marble, laminate, quartz, and synthetic. And they can be constructed in diverse styles, such as rectangle, square, round, and oval.
In deciding on the type of material and style of the dining table top, the purpose must be considered. Is it primarily for daily use by family and friends? Or will it be formal and used for hosting guests on special occasions?
Dining Table Legs
Table legs are another component of the parts of a dining table that must be considered. They are the support system of the dining tabletop; they help the dining table to stand. And they come in different styles as well, however, they are influenced by the dining table top styles.
The most popular is 4-leg dining tables. These are conventional legs with clean lines that are simple, plain, and uncomplicated. They are typically used for rustic modern dining tables.
Dining Table Leaf
This is found in tables that can be extended to provide more seating space to accommodate additional people. They will pull apart, revealing the center of the table and allowing a leaf to be inserted to make it bigger. A dining table leaf is usually found in round or square tables.
Dining Table Bases/Pedestal
The popular types of dining table bases are:
- Trestle
Traditional style with plenty of legroom along the long edges, although the legroom in the edge seats may be limited due to the presence of 2-3 trestle supports.
- Pedestal
One central leg or column and they are most suitable for square or round tables.
- Double Pedestal
Has a support column on each end and is ideal for oval or rectangle tables.
- X-Base
The table legs form an X for symmetrical lines and can come in several styles. Strong farmhouse tables usually have this type of legs.
History of Dining Table
Despite the fact that the word, “table” was coined from the Latin word, “tabula,” the oldest models were used by the Ancient Egyptians, albeit in a purely practical sense. But the highlights of dining table history can be traced back to the early Greeks’ and Romans’ banqueting traditions. Following this, the creative process of explorative furniture design was sparked by these two great empires.
Initially, the shapes of the tables were large and rectangular, allowing the head of the household to occupy the top end, letting him see all his guests at once. Families were not just large back then, but extended families often lived in the same neighborhood. As a result, the table became the focal point of the dining room, with mealtimes just as much about socializing as they were about eating and drinking.
Over time, the Romanians made these dining tables in circular shapes and introduced them to Italy, which till date, is a popular alternative to traditional rectangular dining tables. Without the need for a host or head of the table, circular-shaped tables allow everyone to have an equal view of one another. This creates a more informal, relaxed, and equitable setting, which is more in line with modern dining tables.
Standard Height of a Dining Table
The standard height of a dining table is 28 to 30 inches, but there are alternative heights for other venues like counters and bars. Counter tables are usually 36 inches tall, while bar-height tables are 42 inches. If taller tables will be used, then they must be complemented with tall chairs and stools, so that people would sit comfortably.
Dining Table Applications
Dining tables can be used in several places. Below are the major places where their application is most common.
Residential Dining Room Tables
Dining tables are majorly used in residential settings to have meals. However, outside meal times, other activities, such as get-togethers as a family or group may also take place. Residential dining room tables are made to be within 28 to 30 inches in height, and they can have the additional leaf in their middle to extend them when there are more people. Round and oval tables are mostly used, but they occupy more space.
Several accessories can be put on the table to create a homely feeling. For example, pendant lighting can be placed over the table and then alternative light sources, like a table lamp for mood lighting. Anyways, it should be noted that the dining table should not be overloaded with items.
Kitchen Dining Tables
In some homes, the dining table is not very much used for the most part of the year, while in some homes, it has become a deposit area for all kinds of miscellaneous items. In the bid to beat time, people practically put items on the dining table which is obviously free, and forget them there.
After realizing this, it’s no surprise that most modern families are abandoning the traditional residential dining room and table in favor of something more practical and functional. As a result of this change, the eat-in kitchen model has made a significant resurgence, and choosing the right size table for the kitchen is now important. Kitchen dining tables have the same standard height as residential dining room tables i.e., between 28 to 30 inches tall.
Commercial Dining/Restaurant Tables
A restaurant table is the centerpiece of the commercial dining room where people are entertained and important meals are shared with families, friends, and sometimes, business partners. The dining tables used in restaurants serve more than just a piece of furniture; the comfort they provide creates a personal and crucial experience. Restaurant tables set the tone of the establishment and in some way, tell you what to expect.
The types of tables used in restaurants are different. It could be a 2-4 people table, family table, booth table, bar table, and so many more. For restaurant tables, the height varies. It could be the same with traditional dining tables (28 to 30 inches), counter height (36 inches), or even bar height (42 inches).
Commercial Outdoor Dining Tables
Another common application of dining tables is for commercial outdoor spaces. Customers adore being able to enjoy the outside environment during relaxation periods. Whether it’s a small restaurant, big hotel, or resort, a huge gain will be made from setting up outdoor spaces where people can have snacks or real meals. These tables are also used in the outdoor spaces at homes and gardens. It can be used to create a lively patio area for family and friends to eat and socialize.
The height of commercial outdoor dining tables varies as well depending on the preference of the owner, but the standard height is between 28 to 30 inches.
Dining Tables Types
There are different types of dining tables, and this constitutes the type of dining table materials used in making them and the dining table shapes. Quickly, we will be discussing a few of them.
Wooden Dining Table
This is a popular dining table type because it’s timeless, durable, and multifunctional. Several types of wood can be used, be it hardwood, softwood, or composite wood. It can also be constructed to be formal or casual depending on the color and finishing used. Wood tables make the room naturally warm and can be designed in many styles, ranging from farmhouse to contemporary styles. However, wood can get disfigured due to changes in humidity and temperature, but it can be sanded and reconditioned to give a fresh look every now and then.
Plastic Dining Table
This type of dining table is also favored because of the outstanding features it has. Dining tables that are made with plastic are foldable, waterproof, and versatile. Also, with the use of plastic, dining tables get to be constructed in stylish, sleek, and colorful designs.
Metal Dining Table
This dining table type works well in both industrial and contemporary settings. Metal dining tables are strong, stain-resistant, cool-to-the-touch, and need little maintenance, but they are vulnerable to temperature changes and can become heated or scorched when used in a hot area. These types of dining tables are not good for rooms that are hot as they too, will become hot.
Stone Dining Table
Stone materials like marble and quartz are a solid option for dining tables. They are known for their natural stone look and durability. Also, they can be patterned to suit your taste in different colors, however, these colors may fade if the tables are placed in the sun for a long time.
Glass Type Dining Table
This type of dining table opens up visual space and provides a clean, modern surface to interact within any dining room. It gives an attractive and airy feeling to the dining room.
Square Type Dining Table
Square-shaped dining tables have a simple design as all the sides of the table are dimensioned to the same size, and are perfect for 4-people diners and small spaces. They are growing in popularity and are most suitable in square-shaped rooms.
Round Type Dining Table
This type of table is more communal and accommodating for space, and they provide a cozy vibe. Round dining tables are compatible with most settings and they usually include hinged edges or a leaf, allowing for a variety of sitting arrangements.
Rectangular Dining Table
This is the most popular dining table type. Being the most common type, they are usually styled in so many ways. This type of table usually features a separator between the legs and is suitable for narrow rooms and open-layout layouts.
Oval Dining Table
Oval dining tables, just like round dining tables, are popular for accommodating more people, making them ideal for compact rooms, family meals, and socializing. They have a smooth top and have the sensuous curves of a round table, thereby eliminating any possible sharp edges.
Extendable Dining Table
An extendable dining table is usually designed in the round and square shapes. It’s made to be expandable to fit in a leaf, which will add to the length and space available to accommodate more people.
Dining Table Styles
Another element to consider in the dining table industry is the styles. Here, you are concerned about the visual language of the dining table designs. Below are the major dining table styles.
Modern Dining Table
Modern styles reflect an elegant balance of practicality and aesthetic that flourished beginning from the 20th century. Modern dining tables have clean lines, precise angles framing, smooth surfaces, and add a light, airy element to every room. They are made of a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and glass.
Mid Century Dining Table
This is a distinct style that fuses sleek lines with organic shapes and rebrands traditional furniture with new materials and concepts. It combines the past and modern styles into a single concept. Mid-century dining tables can be made with numerous materials, such as wood, metal, glass, etc.
Rustic Dining Table
Rustic dining tables are made with unpainted wood in natural, hand-carved shapes for a simple, back-to-nature feeling. The beauty, the tactility of the surfaces, and the ease with which vintage designs are mixed with newer styles give rustic dining rooms a specific allure.
Japanese Dining Table
Japanese dining tables are styled to give the feel of ancient times. They are at most 27 inches tall, which necessitates that everyone has to sit on the floor or use cushions round the table to dine comfortably. Also, they are considered to be multi-functional and they are usually made with wood.
Boho Dining Table
Boho dining tables combine natural textures with artistic embellishments to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interesting thing about Boho dining tables is that there are no rules governing their construction; they can be made with several pieces of furniture.
Farm Style Dining Table
A farm-style dining table is designed to have a rustic look and can survive a lot of wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for large families and socialization.
Industrial Style Dining Table
With raw metal and bold, solid wood shapes coupled into a purposeful design, industrial style is meant to portray the look and feel of factory machinery and tools. Industrial dining tables have smooth surfaces and edges, and they depict class in every room.
Scandi Style Dining Table
Scandi styles are all about simplicity. More focus is placed on the form rather than extravagant flourishes, and this extends to dining tables that are designed in this style. They are neutrally colored in hues like light brown, white or black.
Factors to Consider When Sourcing Dining Tables
When sourcing the best dining tables for either personal or professional needs, some elements must be put into consideration.
For Individual Buyers
- Design and Style: The various designs at home, including the dining room, is a reflection of a personal preferred taste. So, the needs of an individual must be considered before making a choice of a suitable dining table. Does the individual prefer a modern and sleek, or vintage and traditional dining table? Also, the materials, finishes, and colors should be considered.
- Size: The size of the dining table will be influenced by the number of people who will be using the table. Will it be used by a small or large family, or will the table be used for socializing? Judging from this, an evaluation will then be made on the suitable dining table size. A very favorable choice here is an extendable dining table as it can be enlarged to accommodate more guests.
- Shape: The most common shapes of dining tables are round, oval, square, and rectangle. The shape of the table has to do with how it appears and how well it fits into your dining room. Round and oval tables are most suitable for small rooms. Square and rectangle tables, on the other hand, are most suitable for large spaces or as kitchen dining tables.
For Professional Buyers
- Design and Style: The design and style of the dining table can sometimes be determined by a person’s profession. Would classic tables be more suitable? Or will modern tables be better? Also, the type of material used and the quality should be considered as this plays a large part in comfortability.
- Size: The size of the table will be determined by the number of people who will be sitting around it at a time. For example, it could be a 2-people table, a 4-people table, or a large audience table. You should offer your customers a wider range of dining table selections.
- Shape: Consider the dimensions and configuration of the table, and this also has to do with the space available and the number of guests that are expected. Round and oval tables are the best for small spaces, while square and rectangular tables are good for large rooms.
- Versatility: The demand for multi-functional desks and chairs in the market is getting higher and higher. Due to changes in business, there might be a need to host more guests either indoor or outdoor. So, it’s ideal that the dining table can be used for multiple purposes.
- Lead Time: The time between when the order is placed and the time of delivery should also be considered. The wrong person to deal with is a supplier that cannot meet up with the available time.
- Warranty and After-sales Service: Consider the benefits that will be enjoyed from dealing with all the suppliers and choose the one that has more benefits. For instance, the number of months for warranty and after-sales service.
How to Find Trusted Dining table Factories
Are you on the lookout for credible and trustworthy dining table factories? The next series of paragraphs will help you with finding them.
Online Outdoor Furniture Supply
Time has evolved, and business has followed suit. Nowadays, it’s imperative for businesses that want to build their brand and have access to a worldwide market to have an online presence.
So, if you need a trusted dining table factory, all you have to do is go to the internet and surf for factories that have a good reputation for supplying quality dining tables and meeting customers’ needs. To ensure that the right selection is made, check for proof of past works and the remarks of their past customers; it could be ratings or comments.
Furniture Fairs & Shows
Another place to find trusted dining table factories is furniture fairs and shows. A notable example is the Milan Furniture Fair. At events like this, dining table companies will come to showcase their products and services, meet with industry partners, customers, and deliberate on market trends. During these exhibitions, you will find several factories from which you can source dining tables.
Keekea – Your Trusted Dining Table Factory in China
Keekea is a reliable dining table factory that’s trusted by individuals, distributors, and other businesses for the best dining tables. Over the years, the company has worked with notable customers and businesses all over the world, which has made them the ultimate source of dining tables.
The company is an expert in bringing more vibrancy to your dining room. Keekea produces numerous styles and sizes of dining tables that will not only satisfy you but draw in guests.
Conclusion
A dining table is among the elements that define how a home or establishment is. Other than its primary purpose which is to eat meals, it can be used for other purposes, such as entertaining guests and socializing. There are different types and styles of dining tables, and all these will influence the decisions you will make when sourcing a reliable dining table factory.
But all this has been sorted out in this post as we’ve discussed everything you need to know about dining tables. With this guide, you will be able to make the right decision and enjoy your dining table. For more information, you can reach out to Keekea for first-hand knowledge.
