How To Choose The Best Expandable Table For Your Kitchen
Having an expandable kitchen table is a great option for small spaces. These ingenious tables allow you to expand seating when you need it for entertaining and tuck neatly away when not in use. With so many types of expandable tables on the market, choosing the best option for your needs and kitchen decor can be tricky.
We’ll also overview popular styles and designs to match any home. Follow these tips to find the perfect expandable table for your kitchen.
Benefits of Expandable Kitchen Tables
Why choose an expandable table over a standard stationary one? Here are some of the top benefits of these space-saving tables:
- Save precious space in your kitchen for other needs
- Easily accommodate extra guests for holidays and dinner parties
- Multifunctional piece can serve as a desk or workspace when folded up
- Adaptability to transition your eating area into other functions
- Perfect furniture solution for small kitchens or apartments
With so much versatility and flexibility, it’s easy to see why expandable tables are surging in popularity. Models that fold up compactly can be tucked into unused corners. The ability to expand seating on demand gives you an easy way to host crowds.
Space Saving Designs
For modest kitchens, expandable tables provide valuable square footage when folded up. Look for compact dimensions around 24-inches wide and 30-36 inches long. Expandable tables folded up can stand vertically on end for ultra-slim storage.
Measure carefully to ensure your folded table will fit in your available kitchen footprint. Also check that you have adequate clearance to fully pull out the opened table without blocking doors or walkways.
Flexibility for Entertaining
The ability to extend seating capacity makes expandable kitchen tables perfect for entertaining. Look for models that accommodate 4-6 when folded up and expand out to seat 8-10 comfortably. Leaf inserts and modular designs allow tables to grow as needed.
Having an expandable table makes hosting holidays and dinner parties much easier. When it's just the family, keep it folded up for casual meals. Open to full size for larger gatherings with friends.
Types of Expandable Kitchen Tables
Now that you know the benefits, let's examine popular styles of expandable tables to find your perfect fit.
Folding Kitchen Tables
A folding kitchen table offers great space savings in your kitchen. Models with hinges in the middle allow the two halves to fold up vertically and tuck against a wall.
Look for convenient self-store features like rolling casters and folding benches connected to the table. Styles, shapes, sizes and materials like wood or metal vary.
Extension Kitchen Tables
Extension or expanding kitchen tables have segmented tabletops that slide smoothly outward to expand the length. Some models also allow you to insert leaf pieces to make the table wider.
Extension tables offer a more seamless surface than folding models. The capacity to insert leaves gives you added versatility. Check extension lengths and mechanism quality.
Convertible Kitchen Tables
Convertible kitchen tables transition into other functional furniture when not used for dining. A convertible table may become a desk, bench, entryway table, or extra counter space.
Convertibles maximize usefulness from one piece. Look for convertibles with built-in storage areas to save more room when folded up.
Modular Kitchen Tables
Modular kitchen tables allow you to customize them by rearranging pieces. Sections interconnect in different shapes and sizes to fit your current needs.
Creatively designed modulars offer the ultimate versatility. Combine just what you need for small or large gatherings. Look for quality craftsmanship.
Buying Considerations
Keep these key factors in mind when evaluating expandable kitchen tables to find the best fit:
Available Space
Carefully measure both folded and open dimensions to ensure your new expandable table fits the room.
Quality and Stability
Choose solidly constructed tables with durable woods, steel or aluminum. Extension glides should be smooth and stable.
Seating Capacity
Match the fully expanded table size to comfortably accommodate the number of people you want to seat.
Storage Size
Factor in vertical clearance and folded footprint. Integrated storage helps maximize space savings.
Ease of Use
Opt for tables that fold, extend, and lock securely into place with minimal effort.
Style
Select an expandable table that matches your kitchen's decor style and color scheme.
Key Features
On top of the basics, here are some beneficial features to look for in an expandable kitchen table:
Adjustable Height
Customizable from standard dining to raised counter height for more versatility.
Leaf Storage
Convenient areas to store leaves can be built into the table or separate.
Multi-functional
Tables that convert into other furniture when folded maximize usefulness.
Shape and Size Options
Choose from round, square or rectangular tables in various expanded dimensions.
Durable Materials
Hardwoods, sturdy laminates, and metals like aluminum withstand use and resist scratches.
Style and Design Choices
From sleek modern to rustic farmhouse, expandable tables now come in endless design options to match your kitchen's decor. Here are some popular styles:
Farmhouse
Channel cozy cottage charm with handsome reclaimed wood expandable tables. Turned legs and country-inspired distressing create a timeworn look.
Industrial
The industrial style highlights metal legs and accents mixed with wood plank tabletops. This bold but minimalist look pairs well with concrete floors.
Scandinavian
Scandinavian style features light-colored wood tones and elegant tapered legs. Aim for simplicity with minimal ornamentation.
Retro Diner
For fun nostalgic appeal, try a retro 1950s-style expandable table with a sleek laminate color top and bold steel base.
Rustic Wood
Hand-crafted plank wood tables with organically shaped solid boards have timeless rustic charm. The natural unstained look enhances reclaimed character.
Now that you’re familiar with the wonderful benefits and versatile options available with expandable kitchen tables, you’re sure to find your perfect fit. Keep your specific needs, decor, and dimensions in mind as you shop quality-crafted styles. Investing in an expandable table is a smart solution to maximize every inch and seamlessly accommodate both small family meals and larger celebrations.
With handy transformable furniture like these innovative tables, even the coziest kitchen can expand as needed. Find the model that complements your space and lifestyle. An expandable kitchen table offers superb versatility when you need it and space savings when you don't.