Have you ever walked into a space and thought, “wow- this is amazing?” You know- those rooms where everything just worked together in cohesive harmony. We like those spaces too- and we’re here to help you achieve that “I just put this together so easily.” Nothing is more deliciously inviting, more welcoming, and awe-inspiring than a space that’s design and functionality blend together to make the perfect space. And while we believe some design rules can deviate from the expected– certain rules, such as scope and scale– should be followed. Keep reading to learn how much space is needed between the wall and dining table for your south San Francisco home.
Measurements
Have you ever sat down at a dining table and just thought to yourself about how effortlessly the whole room flows? The table sits elegantly in the room, the chairs glide in and out from under the table with ease, and there’s elbow– and leg room– for all. These design decisions are no happy coincidences. Knowing the specific measurements to create an ideal flow within a space is key when identifying the space needed between a wall and a dining table. The rule of thumb suggests at least 36″ between the dining table and any walls or other furniture on all sides to allow seats to slide out easily. Any less space than 36 inches and you’ll be bumping into things or feeling uncomfortable. It doesn’t matter if the table is round, square, oval, or rectangular– the same amount of space applies.
While it’s tempting to purchase a dining table because it looks good and may provide ample seating for many, you should always make sure it fits in the room before buying. Remember the function of feelings. Purchase with your designer’s brain driving the decisions. Measuring and laying out the dining table’s location beforehand also helps to prevent buying a table that’ll be too large for the space. Nothing is worse than feeling cramped and uncomfortable during a meal. Not to mention the more “stuff” within a space, tends to make the space look and feel smaller. While adding more items to the space will provide the additional storage you may think you need– you’re taking away from the cohesive look and feel the space so desires. In this case, less truly is more.
Entrance
While the proximity between the dining table and the walls is important, it’s also necessary to take into account entrances when creating the perfect dining space. When you think about it, the entrance to a space is like a first impression- and first impressions tell us a lot about a person, a place, or even an experience. Creating a positive dining experience starts with an entrance that is not only aesthetically inviting, but practical. Have you ever walked into a space only to have to shift your body sideways to fit through properly? Making sure your entrance isn’t obstructed is key to creating a welcoming and functional space. Ideally, you should provide at least 48” between the table and the entrance to allow for comfortable entry into the space. This ensures friends and family will be able to enter and exit the space with ease– no getting up to let Aunt Sally pass through on our watch. When choosing the right dining table for your space keep in mind the entrance is just as important as that picture-perfect table– if not more.
Dining Chairs
As we continue to build the perfect dining space, let’s consider chairs for a moment. The perfect dining chair for your table should provide about 24″ between each chair to allow guests to sit comfortably when dining. Nothing is worse than attempting to cut your steak, only to hit elbows with the person next to you. Providing optimal spacing ensures your guests will leave the dining room sans any bumps or bruises.
Rugs
Adding a rug to your space is a great way to invite added interest, create a cozy resting spot for your toes, and tie the whole design aesthetic together. While rugs can perform miracles in the design world, it’s important to understand some key measurements and how this can affect the functionality of the space. If choosing a rug for your dining room, it should span about 36″ wider on all sides of your dining table. This allows chairs to pull out easily and without catching, allowing optimal flow and function for your space.
Shelving
Adoring the dining spaces with priceless mementos, family portraits, and other prized possessions makes a space feel its own. Many fail to consider that floating shelves, or other mounted items stick out into the space, which in turn can obstruct the flow and practicality of the room. Ensure space is prevalent for mounting such items. Everyone wants an aesthetically pleasing space, but not at the cost of compromising comfort.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to creating an inviting and functional dining room, it’s important to keep in mind the measurements necessary to achieve the optimal dining space. Consider the following design tips to ensure you’re on your way to creating the dining space of your dreams:
Dining table- measure at least 36″ between the dining table and any walls or other furniture on all sides to allow seats to slide out easily.
Entrance: Ideally, you should provide at least 48” between the table and the entrance to allow for comfortable entry into the space.
Dining chairs: The perfect dining chair for your table should provide about 24″ between each chair to allow guests to sit comfortably when dining.
Rugs: If choosing a rug for your dining room, it should span about 36″ wider on all sides of your dining table. This allows chairs to pull out easily and without catching.
Following our quick guide to knowing the space needed between the wall and dining table will ensure your space is ready to function for family and friends– both aesthetically and practically.
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