Making the Most of Small Spaces with Round Kitchen Tables
If your kitchen is on the cozier side, you may think you have to sacrifice style for function. However, the right round kitchen table can open up your space and bring your family together for meals, crafts, or homework in an intimate setting.
With their softer, circular shape, round tables are ideal for small kitchens and tight spaces. The curved edges help maximize seating capacity without sharp corners cramping your room.
Benefits of a Round Table in a Small Kitchen
At first glance, a round table may seem like it takes up just as much room as a square one. But the smooth, sweeping edges actually provide some surprising spatial benefits for compact kitchens.
Seating Capacity
Without any empty 90-degree angles, a circular table can comfortably fit more chairs than a boxy rectangular one. The curved shape allows each chair to pull up closely around the table perimeter. This allows your whole family or dinner party to join in on conversation and enjoy mealtime together, even in tight quarters.
Movement and Traffic Flow
Sharp corners on square tables create bottlenecks and make maneuvering around them tricky. But a round kitchen table's soft edges allow for easy movement. Chairs can slide in and out smoothly, and family members can walk around the table without bumping knees or squeezing through narrow gaps.
Creates Illusion of Space
The organic shape of a round table visually opens up kitchens compared to the intrusive lines of a square table. Instead of jutting edges, your space flows naturally around the table's perimeter. The smooth borders make small kitchens feel more expansive.
Choosing the Right Size Round Table
When shopping for a circular dining table, take careful measurements of your kitchen space. Consider factors like room dimensions, seating requirements, and chair clearance to select the ideal size.
Measure Your Current Space
Pull out a tape measure before committing to a new table. You'll need at least 2-3 feet of clearance on all sides for people to comfortably move around it. If your kitchen traffic flows through the dining area, allow even more breathing room.
Also consider how far chairs will push back when occupied. Measure how close the table can be placed to walls, islands, or appliances while accommodating seated guests.
Seating Requirements
The standard 4 person round kitchen table measures between 40-42 inches wide. To serve 6 people, look for table diameters of 48-60 inches. For very large families, a counter height round table offers ample surface area.
Keep in mind chair dimensions also impact seating capacity. Armless chairs require less clearance than cushioned ones with armrests.
Allow Room to Pull Out Chairs
Pay attention to how much space chairs will need to slide easily in and out from the table. Armless side chairs only require about 2 feet of clearance, while upholstered models need around 3 feet.
Account for Added Leaves
Many round tables include extension leaves to accommodate extra dinner guests. But these inserts need adequate tabletop overhang to support them - typically an extra 6 inches in each direction for a 12-inch leaf. If using leaves, your base table must be bigger to begin with.
Materials and Design Options
Round kitchen tables come in a range of materials to suit your aesthetic, durability needs and budget. Consider your lifestyle when choosing finishes and designs.
Durable Hardwoods
For active families, hardwoods like oak, maple and walnut make an excellent choice. Their strength resists scratches from heavy use. But softer woods may show signs of wear more quickly.
Easy-Clean Glass and Stone
Glass, marble, quartz, and other stone tabletops simply need a quick wipe down to remove spills or messes. But these materials require diligent sealing and polishing to maintain their shine.
Space-Saving Pedestal Base
A pedestal base removes table legs and opens up the space below. This legless look allows chairs to tuck in closer. But a pedestal table won't have the structural support of aprons and stretchers.
Built-in Storage Extensions
Some round tables feature leaf inserts that double as internal cabinet storage. The hidden compartments are great for tucking away extra tableware, linens and serving pieces when not in use.
Styling Your Round Kitchen Table
Once you've chosen the perfect round table, it's time to build your ideal dining space by pairing complementary chairs and decor.
Complementing Dining Chairs
Armless side chairs easily tuck beneath a round table to maximize seating capacity. But cushy upholstered chairs with arms allow guests to lean in close. For a more casual look, backless stools neatly fit the curve.
Placemats and Tablecloths
Oval and circular placemats naturally follow the contour of a round tabletop. An oversized floor-length tablecloth creates a chic backdrop. Go for classic white or experiment with colorful patterns.
Centerpiece Ideas
Low profile centerpieces like a bowl of fruit, petite vase of flowers, or stack of decorative plates allow diners to converse across the table. Or make a statement by hanging a modern pendant light fixture over the center.
Define the dining space with a circular drum-shaped chandelier or globe pendant. For intimate ambiance, opt for delicate candle-style fixtures fitted with dimmable bulbs.
By selecting a well-sized and thoughtfully styled round table, you can create a welcoming dining spot even in a pint-sized kitchen. Keep traffic flowing smoothly and gather close with family and friends around the cozy shape.