Skip to content 
What Dining Room Furniture do you need?
Choosing the right dining room furniture for your home can make a big difference in the look and feel of your space. Whether you want to create a cozy and casual atmosphere or a formal and elegant one, you need to consider some factors before buying your furniture. These include:
- The size and shape of your dining room
- The style and theme of your decor
- Your budget and preferences
- The functionality and durability of your furniture
One of the best options for dining room furniture is wood furniture. Wood furniture is versatile, beautiful, and long-lasting. It can suit any style and theme, from rustic to modern, and it can add warmth and character to your space. Wood furniture is also easy to customize and maintain, and it can last for generations. At Taitlin Studio, we specialize in crafting custom dining tables made with the finest wood materials.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of wood furniture for your dining room, such as tables, chairs, benches, buffets, and sideboards. We will also compare and contrast the pros and cons of different wood types, such as ash, cherry, maple, white oak, walnut, and reclaimed timber. Finally, we will give you some tips on how to customize your wood furniture according to your needs and preferences, and we will introduce you to Taitlin Studio, a custom furniture company in Edmonton that specializes in solid wood tables.
The Dining Room Table
The most essential piece of furniture for your dining room is the dining table. The dining table is where you and your family or guests gather to enjoy meals, conversations, and celebrations. Therefore, you need to choose a dining table that is comfortable, spacious, and stylish.
There are many types of dining tables to choose from, such as:
- Round dining table: A round dining table is ideal for small spaces and intimate gatherings. It can create a cozy and casual vibe, and it can accommodate more people than a rectangular or square table. A round dining table can also fit in any corner or nook of your dining room, and it can prevent sharp edges from hurting anyone.
- Oval dining table: An oval dining table is similar to a round dining table, but it can offer more space and flexibility. It can create a smooth and elegant flow in your dining room, and it can accommodate more people than a round table. An oval dining table can also fit in narrow or long spaces, and it can balance the proportions of your room.
- Rectangular dining table: A rectangular kitchen table is the most common and classic type of dining table. It can create a formal and sophisticated vibe, and it can accommodate more people than a round or oval table. A rectangular dining table can also fit in any space and shape of your dining room, and it can match any style and theme of your decor.
- Square dining table: A square dinner table is a modern and trendy type of dining table. It can create a symmetrical and balanced look in your dining room, and it can accommodate more people than a round or oval table. A square dining table can also fit in small or square spaces, and it can create a dynamic and interactive atmosphere.
The following table summarizes the pros and cons of each type of dining table:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Round | Cozy, casual, spacious, flexible, safe | Less formal, less space-efficient, less stable |
| Oval | Smooth, elegant, spacious, flexible, balanced | Less formal, less space-efficient, less stable |
| Rectangular | Formal, sophisticated, spacious, versatile, classic | Sharp, rigid, less flexible, less interactive |
| Square | Symmetrical, balanced, spacious, versatile, trendy | Sharp, rigid, less flexible, less interactive |
When choosing a wood table for your dining room, you also need to consider the type of wood, the size, the shape, the color, the stain, and the finish of your table. These factors can affect the durability, appearance, and maintenance of your table, as well as the mood and theme of your dining room. For example, ash wood is light and strong, cherry wood is reddish and warm, maple wood is smooth and hard, white oak wood is durable and water-resistant, walnut wood is dark and rich, and reclaimed timber is rustic and eco-friendly.
To help you choose the right wood table for your dining room, you can follow these tips:
- Measure your space and leave enough room for movement and chairs
- Match your table with your chairs, or mix and match different styles and colors for a unique look
- Consider the number and size of your guests, and choose a table that can accommodate them comfortably
- Choose a color, stain, and finish that suit your taste and theme, and that can enhance the natural beauty of the wood
- Maintain your table by cleaning it regularly, protecting it from heat and moisture, and repairing any scratches or damages
Dining Room Chairs
Another important piece of furniture for your dining room is the dining chair. The dining chair is where you and your family or guests sit and relax while enjoying your meals and conversations. Therefore, you need to choose a dining chair that is comfortable, sturdy, and stylish.
There are many types of dining chairs to choose from, such as:
- Wooden dining chair: A wooden dining chair is the most common and classic type of dining chair. It can match any type of dining table and any style and theme of your decor. A wooden dining chair can also be durable, easy to clean, and customizable. However, a wooden dining chair can also be hard, heavy, and uncomfortable.
- Upholstered dining chair: An upholstered dining chair is a type of dining chair that has a padded seat and back covered with fabric, leather, or vinyl. It can add comfort, color, and texture to your dining room. An upholstered dining chair can also be soft, cozy, and luxurious. However, an upholstered dining chair can also be expensive, difficult to clean, and prone to stains and damage.
- Metal dining chair: A metal dining chair is a type of chair that is made of metal, such as steel, iron, or aluminum. It can add a modern and industrial touch to your dining room. A metal dining chair can also be lightweight, sturdy, and easy to move. However, a metal dining chair can also be cold, hard, and noisy.
- Plastic dining chair: A plastic dining chair is a type of dining chair that is made of plastic, such as acrylic, polypropylene, or polycarbonate. It can add a fun and playful touch to your dining room. A plastic dining chair can also be cheap, colorful, and easy to clean. However, a plastic dining chair can also be flimsy, slippery, and harmful to the environment.
The following table summarizes the pros and cons of each type of dining chair:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wooden | Durable, easy to clean, customizable, classic | Hard, heavy, uncomfortable |
| Upholstered | Comfortable, colorful, textured, luxurious | Expensive, difficult to clean, prone to stains and damage |
| Metal | Lightweight, sturdy, easy to move, modern | Cold, hard, noisy |
| Plastic | Cheap, colorful, easy to clean, fun | Flimsy, slippery, harmful to the environment |
When choosing a dining chair for your dining room, you also need to consider the style, comfort, and budget of your chair. These factors can affect the look and feel of your dining room, as well as the satisfaction and enjoyment of your dining experience. For example, you can choose a chair that matches your table, or you can mix and match different styles and colors for a unique and eclectic look. You can also choose a chair that has a cushioned seat and back, or you can add some pillows and throws for extra comfort. You can also choose a chair that fits your budget, or you can splurge on some high-quality and luxurious chairs for a special occasion.
To help you choose the right dining chair for your dining room, you can follow these tips:
- Balance your style, comfort, and budget, and prioritize the factors that matter most to you
- Mix and match your chairs, or choose a set that complements your table and decor
- Measure your space and leave enough room for movement and comfort
- Test your chairs before buying them, and make sure they are comfortable and sturdy
- Maintain your chairs by cleaning them regularly, protecting them from spills and scratches, and repairing any damages
Buffets and Sideboards for the Dining Room
Besides the dining table and chairs, you can also add some other types of wood furniture to your dining room, such as buffets and sideboards. Buffets and sideboards are low and long cabinets that can store and display your dishes, utensils, and other dining essentials. They can also provide extra storage and serving space for your dining room.
The difference between buffets and sideboards is that buffets are usually lower and wider, while sideboards are usually higher and narrower. Buffets are also more suitable for formal and elegant dining rooms, while sideboards are more versatile and functional for any dining room.
There are many pros and cons of buffets and sideboards, such as:
- Storage: Buffets and sideboards can offer a lot of storage space for your dining items, such as plates, bowls, cups, cutlery, napkins, tablecloths, and more. They can also have drawers, shelves, doors, or baskets to organize your items and keep them out of sight. However, buffets and sideboards can also take up a lot of floor space and make your dining room look crowded and cluttered.
- Display: Buffets and sideboards can also display your dining items, such as your collections, artworks, or plants. They can have glass doors, open shelves, or lights to showcase your items and add some personality and style to your dining room. However, buffets and sideboards can also collect dust and dirt and require regular cleaning and maintenance.
- Serving: Buffets and sideboards can also serve as extra surfaces for serving your food and drinks. They can have flat tops, extendable leaves, or wheels to accommodate your dishes and beverages and make your dining experience more convenient and enjoyable. However, buffets and sideboards can also be hard to access and move and create traffic and congestion in your dining room.
The following table summarizes the pros and cons of buffets and sideboards:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Buffet | Storage, display, serving, formal, elegant | Space, clutter, dust, dirt, access, movement |
| Sideboard | Storage, display, serving, versatile, functional | Space, clutter, dust, dirt, access, movement |
When choosing a buffet or sideboard for your dining room, you also need to consider the type of wood, the size, the shape, the color, the stain, and the finish of your cabinet. These factors can affect the durability, appearance, and maintenance of your cabinet, as well as the mood and theme of your dining room. For example, you can choose a buffet or sideboard that matches your table and chairs, or you can choose a different style and color for a contrast and accent.
To help you choose the right buffet or sideboard for your dining room, you can follow these tips:
- Match your buffet or sideboard with your table and chairs, or choose a different style and color for a contrast and accent
- Measure your space and leave enough room for movement and access
- Organize your items and display them in a neat and attractive way
- Maintain your buffet or sideboard by cleaning it regularly, protecting it from spills and scratches, and repairing any damages
Other Furniture
Besides the dining table, chairs, buffets, and sideboards, you can also add some other types of wood furniture to your dining room, such as:
- Bench: A bench is a long and narrow seat that can accommodate multiple people. It can add a rustic and cozy touch to your dining room, and it can save space and create more seating options. A bench can also be versatile and multifunctional, as it can be used as a storage, a display, or a divider. However, a bench can also be uncomfortable, unstable, and inconvenient.
- China cabinet: A china cabinet is a tall and narrow cabinet that can store and display your fine china, crystal, or silverware. It can add a formal and elegant touch to your dining room, and it can protect your valuable items from dust and damage. A china cabinet can also have glass doors, shelves, lights, or mirrors to showcase your items and add some sparkle and glamour to your dining room. However, a china cabinet can also be expensive, bulky, and hard to move.
- Breakfast table: A breakfast table is a small and casual table that can be used for breakfast, snacks, or coffee. It can add a bright and airy touch to your dining room, and it can create a cozy and intimate spot for your family or guests. A breakfast table can also be round, oval, square, or rectangular, and it can fit in any corner or nook of your dining room. However, a breakfast table can also be too small, too low, or too informal for your dining room.
- Counter height table: A counter height table is a tall and narrow table that can be used for dining, working, or entertaining. It can add a modern and trendy touch to your dining room, and it can create a spacious and open feel for your space. A counter height table can also be paired with stools, chairs, or benches, and it can have drawers, shelves, or hooks for extra storage and functionality. However, a counter height table can also be uncomfortable, unstable, or inconvenient for your dining room.
The following table summarizes the pros and cons of each type of wood furniture:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bench | Rustic, cozy, space-saving, versatile, multifunctional | Uncomfortable, unstable, inconvenient |
| China cabinet | Formal, elegant, storage, display, protection, sparkle, glamour | Expensive, bulky, hard to move |
| Breakfast table | Bright, airy, cozy, intimate, small, casual | Too small, too low, too informal |
| Counter height table | Modern, trendy, spacious, open, tall, narrow, multifunctional | Uncomfortable, unstable, inconvenient |
When choosing other wood furniture for your dining room, you also need to consider the type of wood, the size, the shape, the color, the stain, and the finish of your furniture. These factors can affect the durability, appearance, and maintenance of your furniture, as well as the mood and theme of your dining room. For example, you can choose other wood furniture that matches your table and chairs, or you can choose different styles and colors for a contrast and accent.
To help you choose the right other wood furniture for your dining room, you can follow these tips:
- Create a focal point for your dining room, and choose other wood furniture that can enhance or complement it
- Add some contrast and variety to your dining room, and choose other wood furniture that can create some interest and excitement for your space
- Maximize your space and functionality, and choose other wood furniture that can offer extra storage, display, or seating options for your dining room
- Maintain your other wood furniture by cleaning it regularly, protecting it from spills and scratches, and repairing any damages
In conclusion, choosing the right dining room furniture for your home can make a big difference in the look and feel of your space. You can choose from different types of wood furniture, such as tables, chairs, benches, buffets, and sideboards, depending on your space, style, budget, and functionality. You can also choose from different wood types, such as ash, cherry, maple, white oak, walnut, and reclaimed timber, depending on your preferences and needs. You can customize your wood furniture by choosing the size, shape, color, stain, and finish that suit your taste and theme.
Wood furniture is a great option for dining room furniture because it is durable, beautiful, and versatile. It can suit any style and theme, from rustic to modern, and it can add warmth and character to your space. Wood furniture is also easy to maintain, and it can last for generations.
If you are looking for high-quality and unique wood furniture for your dining room, you can visit Taitlin Studio’s website and browse their collection of handcrafted wood tables. Taitlin Studio is a custom handcrafted furniture company that specializes in solid wood tables. They use locally sourced and sustainable wood, and they craft each table with care and passion. They can also customize your table according to your needs and preferences, such as the size, shape, color, stain, and finish. Taitlin Studio is located just outside of Edmonton, and they have a gallery of their previous projects, reviews from their satisfied customers, and a contact form for you to get in touch with them. Taitlin Studio can help you find the perfect wood table for your dining room.
We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about wood furniture for your dining room. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day! If you’re in St. Albert and looking for custom furniture, be sure to visit our St. Albert custom furniture page.