A dining table is the focal point around which some of life's best memories are made. With a history dating back to Egyptian times, where they were used for feasts, religious ceremonies and rituals, they have been an intrinsic part of our social development.
In ancient Rome, three elaborate wooden lectus (chaise longues) would be arranged around a small central table allowing one to recline and eat, while Greece saw them morph into low structures accompanied by floor cushions for sitting on. But it wasn't until the Middle Ages that chairs were introduced, and their form became large and rectangular to accommodate more people.
This shift was the foundation for dining tables as we know them and, with each era that followed, they formed a definitive part of home decor. From hosting parties to catching up with family and friends, they are the hub of our social lives, which is why it's so important to find the right one.
London's largest luxury dining furniture showroom
Now available in a wide range of designs, materials and sizes, dining room furniture is functional, stylish and innovative, featuring everything from ingenious extension mechanisms to built-in lazy Susans. So how do you choose the right one? Which brands offer the best value? What materials will match your aesthetic and provide long-term durability?
At FCI London, we celebrate diversity by bringing you a curated collection of tables from over 700 esteemed brands. From wooden, glass and marble tops to sculptural bases and unusual shapes, there's a wealth of styles to choose from.
With a free consultation and plenty of advice from our skilled interior design team, you'll soon be celebrating your newest investment, accompanied by a jolly good feast.
Most popular types of dining tables according to style
Finding a luxury dining table to suit your space is a multifaceted endeavour involving a range of considerations that span everything from the dimensions of your room to the genre you choose. These styles are well worth exploring:
Traditional
Classic, elegant and usually made from quality wood, these exude a sense of timelessness that embraces sophistication and refinement. Often featuring intricate carvings or ornate detailing, they are the perfect choice if you love formality.
Contemporary
If you want to inject some artistry into your dining room, then this style is for you. Innovative and often experimental, expect mesmerising tops paired with sculptural bases, a mix of materials and a focus on visual impact.
Industrial
Edgy and raw, this genre incorporates steel, concrete and distressed wood, impeccably put together to create an “urban chic” vibe. Revisiting the authenticity of old warehouses, it best suits open-concept homes with high ceilings.
Glam
Harking back to the pizzazz of old Hollywood, this appeals to those who adore making a statement. Think metallic accents, rich materials and everything that speaks of lavishness. Bold yet sophisticated, it's sure to cause a stir.
Modern
Minimalistic and sleek, a modern dining table is the perfect way to bring elegance and calm to your dining room. With a selection of classic styles and materials at your disposal, it offers timeless versatility and will future-proof your home for decades to come.
Farmhouse
Family-friendly and great for bustling households, this genre is warm and inviting, allowing for casual gatherings around a sturdy, functional table. Always made from robust wood like oak or pine, their profiles span everything from extendable to trestle.
Transitional
The perfect balance between traditional and modern, it merges classic features with state-of-the-art utility for a contemporary look. Understated and easy on the eye, these can easily be adapted to different genres and is ideal if you love the best of both worlds.
Boho
Eclectic, dynamic and free-spirited, a Boho approach comprises intricate patterns, vibrant colours and a carefully curated mishmash of different styles. Rattan and wood are popular materials, making them a flexible choice for outdoors too.
Rustic
If you're down-to-earth and enjoy nature, then consider opting for rustic dining furniture. Charming and relaxed, your table should embrace ruggedness and authenticity. Reclaimed or distressed wood will help you create that warm, weathered look.
Standout dining table features that raise the bar
Aside from choosing something with impeccable style, certain features have become synonymous with luxury dining table offerings.
Here are three to look out for:
Extendibility
From age-old butterfly and drop-leaf designs to the state-of-the-art mechanisms of today, being able to change the size of your tabletop when needed is a massive bonus. Brilliant for small environments or households that entertain regularly, a simple process allows you to lengthen it whenever you have extra guests and then return it to normal or fold it away once they've gone.
Sustainability
With an ever-present need to look after our planet, choosing an eco-friendly table should be at the top of your list. And, in contemporary design, the options are plentiful. Whether you find one made from glass, metal, distressed wood or responsibly sourced timber, we recommend that you play your role in reducing our global carbon footprint.
Artistry
Finding a dining table that can visually impact your room and enhance your eating experience will help you create an environment where you feel happy, nurtured and at ease. And, from sculptural bases to glamorous tops, there's a lot on offer. It's also important to check for good craftsmanship before you make a purchase, ensuring that every aspect is beautifully made.
The benefits of investing in a luxury dining table
Buying a high-end dining room table may cost a little more than a mass-produced one but once you weigh up the benefits, you'll see why it's worth every penny. This is what you can expect:
Durability
Manufactured by skilled artisans, you can rest assured that each product is made to the highest standards.
Longevity
More than just a great shelf life, luxury furniture is timeless, so you won't have to update your dining room every few years.
Aesthetics
With a team of top designers at their disposal, recognised brands focus on creating exclusive collections that won't go out of style.
Credentials
With an impeccable reputation to uphold, your experience will be exceptional from start to finish.
Ergonomics
Attention is paid to the user experience, so your table will be made to a height and dimension that brings you the most comfort.
Eco-friendliness
Focused on sustainability, these products will help reduce your carbon footprint.
Versatility
Luxury tables can be doubled up as a home office space for stay-at-home professionals and children.
Classifying dining tables according to shape
The shape of your table will make a huge difference to the spatial dynamics and aesthetics of your room. Let's take a look at the different choices and how they will serve you:
Round dining table
Perfect for any genre, their lack of corners helps save space, create intimacy and encourage inclusive conversations. The most versatile choice, it usually only seats up to eight people, maintaining an acceptable distance between diners.
Rectangular dining table
Ideal for those who enjoy large-scale entertaining, this traditional profile is the most popular of them all. It allows for plenty of foot traffic and caters to comfortable seating arrangements that adhere to an elegant yet formal setting.
Square dining table
If you're short on space but want the classic aesthetic of a rectangular table, then this is the solution. Paired with armless dining chairs, the entire set can be tucked away when not in use. This shape is also ideal for a more social setting.
Oval dining table
Linear and sinuous, this is the best of both worlds, enabling you to seat your guests with decorum while keeping things casual. These often comprise a round table with a central leaf so it can be extended into an oval for optimal versatility.
Freeform dining table
While uncommon, there is an offering of dining tables that transcend the norm. These range from triangular profiles to rectangular versions with mismatched ends. Aside from visual impact, they are an interesting option for unique spaces.
Bar table
Designed for a smaller space or crowded cafes, these bistro-style tables usually seat between two and four people and are higher than average. Light and contemporary, they come in different styles and materials, making them ideal for outdoor living too.
Classifying dining tables according to size
The average width of a place setting is 60 cm per person, which will give you an idea of how big your table should be for everyday dining in your specific household. However, if you entertain regularly, you may want to opt for something larger or choose one that includes an extension mechanism.
While the dimensions of each design differ, there is a standard way to assess the size of a table based on its seating capacity. Here are the three most popular options and their approximate dimensions. Bear in mind that rectangular and oval shapes have the same capacity, and square and round profiles are similar in width/diameter:
4 - 6 Seaters
Round tables: 120 cm in diameter
Rectangular tables: 160 cm in length
6 - 8 Seaters
Round tables: 150 cm in diameter
Rectangular tables: 190 cm in length
8 - 10 Seaters
Round tables: 170 cm in diameter
Rectangular tables: 220 cm in length
Common materials used for quality dining tables
While there are many available options, a luxury product is designed to perfectly balance durability, functionality and aesthetics and therefore requires the use of premium materials. Our dining table range includes:
Glass dining tables
Modern and elegant, tempered glass lends an airiness to your spaces, giving them a contemporary, minimalist feel. Aside from suiting most styles, it is also durable, easy to clean and is available in clear, frosted and tinted versions.
Wood dining tables
If you love a traditional dining area, then this is for you. Versatile and long-lasting, quality tables are made from hardwood like oak, walnut or teak, giving your room a warm, natural feel. It is available in classic and rustic styles.
Marble dining tables
This is the perfect dining table if you're looking for something opulent. Both substantial and aesthetically beautiful, its veined patterning ensures that no two pieces are the same, making whatever you choose unique and exclusive.
Ceramic dining tables
World-renowned brand, Cattelan Italia, has created a unique, ceramic-based material which they have termed "Keramik”. Innovative, impactful and hard-wearing, it looks similar to marble but is water, heat and scratch-resistant.
Metal dining tables
Often used as a modern dining table base, metal is sturdy, sculptural and striking. It comes in various formats from stainless steel to brass and can be lacquered to add visual appeal. Aluminium is also a common choice in garden furniture.
Rattan dining tables
A great option for outdoor tables, rattan lends a casual vibe to your patio spaces. Resilient and easy to clean, it will withstand snow and frost, providing an eco-friendly alternative if you're concerned about your carbon footprint.
Key considerations when choosing dining room furniture
Whether you're looking for a kitchen table, something that suits a more refined dinner party, or a relaxing seating solution for your garden, making sure that it fits your space is important. Use these tips as a guideline:
Finding the right size
Getting your measurements right in your dining space will influence the look, functionality and overall experience when enjoying a meal.
Defining its purpose
Will you be using your dining room for formal entertaining or regular suppers with the neighbours? This will influence both the shape and size of your table and the intimacy or refinement of your aesthetics.
Making great material choices
Aside from setting the tone, different materials are suited to different lifestyles and will influence the longevity of your investment. If you have small children, for example, a glass dining table is probably not the best idea, so opt for wood instead.
Ensuring style compatibility
Make sure that your furniture suits the architecture of your home and your existing ensemble. This applies to everything from the genre you choose to your colour palette, accessories (like table lamps and rugs) and upholstery fabrics for your chairs.
Honing in on functionality
From ergonomic chairs to finding a table that suits your needs, functionality is key. For instance, if you have limited space but enjoy having guests regularly, our design team suggests that you opt for an extendable dining table that can be expanded when needed.
Respecting your budget
Settle on a budget and stick to it. However, make sure you buy the best product possible within that allocation as the higher the quality, the longer it will last.
Checking the craftsmanship
Examine every joint to make sure that your table is sturdy, visually appealing and well put together.
Enquiring about warranties
Find out whether the manufacturer offers any warranties and read as many reviews as you can about the brand's customer service standards. Both will ensure that you are buying a product from a reputable establishment. You can also contact their help centre to enquire about these offerings.
Shopping on the right platform
There are plenty of great online furniture stores that will make your shopping experience more convenient - and we offer this option too. However, nothing beats an in-store experience as it allows you to see what you're buying, test it out and get a realistic feel for its dimensions and aesthetics.
Latest trends for dining spaces
Our expert team continually has their fingers on the pulse when it comes to the latest trends and, with a free one-off consultation, it's well worth taking advantage of our design services. To help you get the ball rolling, here are some ideas:
Informal settings
Casual aesthetics are in, with comfort and versatility high on the priority list. Aim for a warm, welcoming aesthetic and infuse your space with personal touches like a vibrant rug, framed photos, a pair of eye-catching floor lamps or some quirky ornaments.
Multifunctionality
Make your dining area versatile by using decor that will allow you to use it for eating, working, studying and gathering around for an evening of board games and laughter. For example, how about incorporating a pair of ergonomic office chairs at each end of your table with a matching dining chair set along the sides?
Sinuous profiles
Whether you prefer round or oval, replace sharp corners with curves to create a deepened sense of intimacy. Both are space savers and will bring softness (and child-friendliness) to your spaces.
Natural materials
The increasing moves towards biophilic design and sustainability also have their place in your dining areas, connecting you with the outdoors and a feeling of wellness while keeping the planet safe. Find glass tables with textural wooden bases, bring in some plants and look for pendant lights with rattan shades.
Alfresco dining
During the summer months, why not repurpose your indoor dining space (think exercise areas or workstations) and take your dinner parties outside? Whether you invest in a bistro table for your balcony or a gorgeous ten-seater for an expansive terrace, eating under the stars is always a good idea.
Best dining table brands from around the world
With thousands of brands on the market, it's easy to feel swamped when making a final decision. Our design team has come up with their top ten go-to names to help make your life easier. Here they are:
Arketipo
Self-proclaimed perfectionists, this brand revels in offerings that embrace sophistication, quality and the fusion of traditional values with futuristic thinking. The results are evident in their stunning collection of dining tables that set the bar for those seeking elegance in a non-conformist way.
The Arketipo dining table collection is incredibly versatile in terms of both design and materials. You’ll find tables in wood, marble, glass and metal and some really interesting combinations like the Millenium dining table which features a stunning contrast of solid wood and marble.
Laskasas
Opulent in every way, this esteemed Portuguese brand combines age-old techniques such as filigree and customised metalwork to bring you tables that transcend the norm. From hammered brass bases to organic shapes that resemble trees, these profiles are for the intrepid design aficionado.
From Oval to Rectangular and Round - Laskasas offers a range of elegant yet statement-making dining tables in a range of materials and finishes. Whether you want a classic and simple style or a sculptural base, you’ll definitely find something to love in their dining range.
Cattelan Italia
Innovative and elegant, Cattelan focuses on blending unique materials to create bases and tops that stand out from the crowd. Whether you want something in walnut or are sold on their ceramic and wood combinations, these beautiful profiles will make a statement in any setting.
The contemporary style and high-end materials of these tables make them a popular choice for not just dining rooms but also kitchens and office meeting rooms. Some of their most innovative and popular finishes include the Keramik white marble table tops and Crystalart marble.
Dom Edizioni
From accent chairs to footstools and dining tables, this “Made in Italy” label strives to create masterpieces that have purpose and intent while blending seamlessly into their natural surroundings.
Serene yet generous, their Mediterranean influences reflect the good life, bringing a sense of ease to your ensembles.
Innovation, purity of form and attention to detail are some of the defining characteristics of their dining tables collection. Many of these tables feature a striking, sculptural base that has the potential to become a focal point of your room.
Eichholtz
Hailing from the Netherlands, Eichholtz has a knack for creating designs that span every genre from traditional profiles to sleek minimalism and contemporary chic.
With 4,000 products ranging from living room furniture to dining tables in their catalogue, you'll find everything you're looking for.
Designed to elevate modern spaces, Eichholtz dining tables are anything but ordinary. While you can find a variety of materials, wood dining tables are some of their best-sellers because of their timeless appeal and modern designs.
Gloster
If sustainability is important to you and you're styling an outdoor area, look no further than Gloster. Its dining table offerings are made largely from responsibly grown teak, giving longevity to every aspect of your investment. Elegant, simple and inviting, you can't go wrong.
As a modern luxury outdoor furniture brand, Gloster has continued to set the bar with its finest craftsmanship and unique product selection.
Natural Teak wood is the main material used in its dining range but many products are further enhanced by the incorporation of other materials like ceramic tops or metal frames.
Naos
If you're in the market for extension tables, then this brand is the business. Known for its innovations using the concept of movement, they have mastered their mechanism designs and have even incorporated them into the visual impact of their tables.
This Italian brand is now world-renowned for its extending dining tables which can easily be operated - either through simple manual steps or with a remote control.
Ditre Italia
Obsessed with wood, Ditre Italia’s tables are all about the bases, giving you sculptural aesthetics that are bound to turn heads. Proud of its world-renowned team, it produces carefully crafted offerings that provide an inherent sense of ease and connectivity in our everyday dining routines.
We highly recommend this brand if you’re a fan of curves and freeform shapes because their dining tables are all in Oval and Circular designs. If you’re looking for something unique, you’ll be highly impressed by their leather upholstered bases which can be personalised to create a dining space that’s full of personality.
Sancal
If you have an eye for the unusual, have a look at the dynamic range by Sancal. Sinuous lines and bold shapes are part of the brand's design ethos, giving people searching for a small dining table plenty of options that will pack a visual punch.
We love the Vesper design for its contemporary feel and the Totem dining table for its bold and playful feel. You’ll find that almost all their dining tables are available in varying heights and diameters and with many complementing products like bar stools or chairs in a similar design. This allows us to create complete dining table sets for harmonised design.
Tonin Casa
Simple, elegant and minimalistic, tables from Tonin Casa are best suited to those looking for a timeless, contemporary aesthetic. 100% made in Italy, you can choose between their two design principles - modern or classic - giving you ample scope to meet your style preferences.
From light tops to precious finishes, Tonin Casa offers one of the most diverse ranges with each product having some unique detailing that makes it stand out. For example, the Adone dining table features a bush-hammered curved base while Firenze features a unique solid wood base where wood slats are paired together for a spiral scripture that creates an optical illusion.
Book an appointment with an FCI dining table expert
Our professional team is available to help you with every step of your decor project. Book a personalised visit and let's get the ball rolling on your new dining room design.
FAQs
What are the advantages of buying a dining table in London?
Buying a dining table in London offers access to a wide range of styles, top-tier craftsmanship and the latest design trends from the best brands in the world. Many retailers also provide bespoke options, allowing you to customise your table to fit your space perfectly. With local delivery and service, the entire process is smooth and convenient from selection to setup.
What are the dining table size recommendations for different spaces in London?
When choosing a dining table in London, consider the size of your space. For small spaces, opt for a round or extendable table around 90-120 cm in diameter. For medium size spaces, it’s more suitable to choose rectangular tables of 150-180 cm. Larger rooms can accommodate tables of any size over 200 cm, providing ample seating for gatherings.
How to determine the right size for your dining table?
This is what you'll need to take into consideration:
- Your floorspace: You'll be investing in more than just a dinner table, so allocate room for all your furniture including chairs and a sideboard or console table. If you have an open-concept home, you may also want a bar and counter stools. Typically, your main feature should take up approximately one-third of your space.
- Chair clearance: Your dining chairs will need to be pulled in and out with ease. We recommend that you leave a gap of at least 95 cm between your table and the wall.
- Walkways: Factor in space for foot traffic as people will need to move around your room without bumping into anything, especially when serving the food.
What are the different materials used for dining tables in London?
Dining tables in London are made from a variety of materials, including solid wood for classic durability, glass for a modern and light aesthetic, metal for an industrial edge, marble for a luxurious feel and stone or ceramic for a contemporary, rugged look. Each material caters to different tastes and functional needs.
Where can you buy dining tables in London?
You can buy dining tables from various reputable retailers in the city, including FCI London, known for its stunning showroom, extensive range of styles and custom options. Other options include high-end furniture stores, design boutiques and online platforms that offer both standard and bespoke dining tables to suit every space and budget.
How do you care for dining tables?
To care for your dining table, regularly dust it with a soft cloth and clean spills immediately to prevent stains. Use coasters, placemats and tablecloths to protect the surface. For wooden tables, apply furniture polish periodically. Avoid placing hot items directly on the table to prevent damage.
What are the most sought-after dining table designs in London?
The most sought-after dining table designs include sleek, modern styles with minimalist lines, extendable tables for versatility and rustic wooden tables for a timeless appeal. Contemporary glass and metal combinations are also popular, offering a blend of durability and chic aesthetics to complement various interior styles.
What Is the best material for a dining table?
The best material for a dining table depends on your needs. Solid wood is durable and timeless, ideal for long-term use. Glass offers a modern, light look, while metal provides industrial strength. Marble adds luxury but requires care. The final choice should be based on your style preference and maintenance requirements.
Is 70cm too narrow for a dining table?
A 70cm width for a dining table is generally considered narrow for comfortable dining, particularly for accommodating multiple place settings. For optimal space, aim for at least 80-90cm in width to ensure ample room for diners and serving dishes, enhancing both comfort and functionality.
Are benches a good idea for a dining table?
Benches can be a practical choice for dining tables, offering flexible seating and a modern look. They maximise space and are ideal for casual dining. However, ensure they are the right height and provide comfortable seating. It’s also important to ensure enough space around the table for ease of access.
How many seats does a 7ft table have?
A 7ft dining table typically accommodates 6 to 8 seats, comfortably. For optimal seating, plan for 3 seats on each long side and 1 to 2 on each end, depending on the table’s design and leg placement. This setup ensures ample space for diners and allows for comfortable dining.
What is the most popular shape for a dining room table?
The most popular shape for a dining room table is rectangular, as it efficiently accommodates multiple diners and fits well in various room layouts. Rectangular tables offer flexibility for larger gatherings and often come in sizes that suit different space configurations.
Should a dining bench fit under a table?
Yes, a dining bench should fit comfortably under the table to ensure easy access and a neat appearance. Ideally, it should be about 15-20 cm lower than the table height to provide ample legroom and allow for smooth, unobstructed seating.
How many chairs should be in a dining table set?
A dining table set should typically include 6 to 8 chairs for a standard table, providing ample seating for most dining needs. For larger tables, add more chairs to match the length, ensuring comfortable and functional seating for all guests.
What size is a 10-seater dining table?
A 10-seater dining table usually measures about 240 cm in length (approximately 8 feet long) and 90-100 cm in width. This size provides ample space for ten diners, ensuring comfortable seating and enough room for dining essentials and serving dishes.
Is it better to have a round or rectangular dining table?
Choosing between a round or rectangular dining table depends on your space and needs. Round tables are ideal for smaller rooms and encourage conversation, while rectangular tables maximise seating in larger spaces. Consider your room size and how you entertain to determine the best fit for your dining area.
Do you put a rug under the dining room table?
Yes. Placing a rug under the dining room table can enhance the room’s aesthetics and protect the flooring. Ensure the rug extends beyond the table edges to accommodate chairs and prevent tripping. Choose a durable, easy-to-clean material to handle spills and foot traffic.
How far should a dining table be from the walls?
A dining table should be 90-100 cm from the walls, at least, to allow comfortable seating and easy movement. This distance ensures ample space for diners to pull out chairs and for guests to navigate around the table without obstruction.
What table makes a room look bigger?
A glass or light-coloured dining table can make a room appear larger by creating a sense of openness and reflecting light. Additionally, choosing a table with a slim profile and minimalistic design can help maintain an airy feel and maximise the perception of space.
What is the most durable dining table?
The most durable dining tables are typically made from solid hardwoods like oak, maple, or walnut. These materials offer superior strength and longevity, resisting wear and damage. Additionally, tables with a high-quality finish or protective coating can further enhance durability and ease of maintenance.
A word from our customers
Founded in 1985, we've been in the luxury furniture and accessories business for over three decades and have nurtured long-term relationships with our suppliers, interior design partners and esteemed client base.
From helping you select an upmarket dining table and matching chairs to finding the right kitchen appliances, desk lamps or sectional sofas, we make sure that your home landscapes are perfect in every way.
This is why our patrons think we're the experts of choice:
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