Round vs. rectangular: picking the right shape for your dining table

Dining tables come in many sizes, shapes and forms – with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming knowing which piece is right for you. Today, we're breaking down dining tables by shape, and what factors you might need into take into consideration during your decision process. Understanding your room size, seating requirements and intended use will help you narrow down your selection. Whether you aim to create a cosy dining experience for intimate meals or accommodate larger gatherings for lively dinner parties, we're here to help!

How to find the right table shape

Finding the right dining table shape involves a thoughtful evaluation of your area and its intended use. We've included some key factors you'll need to take into consideration, so that you can ensure you have a piece that complements your space.

Room size

When selecting your perfect dining table, the size of your space is one of the most important things to think about – you don't want too small of a table that looks out of place in a large room, nor do you want a piece that overcrowds the area. There should always be enough room for the table and the chairs around it – a good idea is to leave at least 3 feet around the table. This should be ample space for you and your loved ones to get in and out of the chairs with ease, as well as sit at the table comfortably.

Seating needs

Whether you choose a round table or a rectangular table, it is important to think about your seating needs. For example, a round table helps with conversation and works well in smaller dining areas whilst creating a cosy dining experience. For larger groups, a rectangular table may better suit your space as it offers a larger seating capacity. Consider the number of people you usually host for meals.

Function

How you plan to use your dining area will affect the shape of the table you pick. Do you mainly have quick family meals, or do you host big dinner parties?

Layout

The design of your floor plan is important when selecting the right dining table shape. You need to think about how people move in and out of the area and any doorways or furniture nearby.

Round dining tables

Round dining tables offer a charming touch to any dining space. Their lack of sharp corners promotes a sense of intimacy ideal for small gatherings or cosy meals, and is also perfect if you live in a household with little ones. With a round tabletop, conversations flow seamlessly, making them perfect for family meals or intimate dinner parties. If you have a smaller area or are working with a corner or square room, a round table could be an ideal choice as it better utilises the space compared to other table shapes. However, round options have a comparably smaller surface area than rectangular or square dining tables, which may have an impact on the number of dishes you can serve at once. In addition, with a large round table (that seats 10 or more), you and your guests may feel as if you are sitting too far apart from each other, thereby losing that cosiness and sense of intimacy.

Rectangular Dining Tables

Rectangular tables offer versatility and functionality, making them an ideal shape for many dining spaces. Their elongated, linear designs work particularly well in narrow or rectangular spaces and can create a sense of balance in the dining room. Rectangular tables are perfect for hosting large gatherings and formal dinners, offering ample surface area for serving dishes. Benches pair wonderfully with rectangular tables as they create a sense of casualness, offer flexible seating, as well as maximise space when tucked underneath. However, the sharp corners of a rectangular table can take up more room compared to round tables, making navigation around it cumbersome in tighter spaces. And while this shape is excellent for hosting large groups, too long of a length of may make it difficult to engage with loved ones and maintain conversations across the table.

Square dining tables

Square dining tables offer a balanced and symmetrical look to your dining room, and its geometric shape is a perfect choice for small spaces or square rooms. Similarly to round tables, they are ideal for facilitating conversation among diners due to their compact size, and thereby provide a cosy, intimate dining experience. This dining table shape is also excellent for their use of space, with straight, symmetrical edges that allow them to be lined up against walls and tucked neatly into corners if needed. Do keep in mind that, while this dining table shape is conducive to conversation, seating capacity is a little more restricted, and guests positioned at the corners of the table will tend to have less space than those seated along the edges.

Oval dining tables

Oval tables take the best of what round and rectangular dining tables have to offer. While the rounded edges create a softness and sense of intimacy that's perfect for family meals or cosy dinner parties, their long length makes it perfect for hosting large dinner parties at home. The lack of corners also makes this dining table shape a versatile option, as it has the flexibility to add last-minute seats when needed.

We hoped today's guide helps you get a better understanding of each dining table shape, and how a round, rectangular, square and oval tables may best cater to your personal style and needs!