Largest stockist of Stressless, Parker Knoll and G Plan in Leicestershire.

How to choose the perfect dining table for your home

by Amy Langton

A dining table is more than just a place to eat.

It’s where birthdays are celebrated, homework is done, Sunday lunches are shared, and guests gather long after dessert. Choosing the right one matters — not just for style, but for how your home functions every day.

If you’re currently searching for dining tables in Leicester or wondering which style will work best for your space, here’s what to consider before making your decision.

1. Start with size 

One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing a table that’s either too large or too small for the room.

As a guide:

  • Allow at least 90cm of clearance around the table for chairs and walkways

  • Each person typically needs 60cm of width for comfortable seating

  • Consider doorways, radiators, and windows when measuring

If you’re unsure, visiting a showroom to visualise proportions can make a huge difference.

2. Fixed or extendable?

For many family homes across Leicestershire, flexibility is key.

Fixed dining tables

  • Ideal for consistent everyday use

  • Often slightly sturdier in feel

  • Great for smaller households

Extendable dining tables

  • Perfect for entertaining

  • Adaptable for special occasions

  • Excellent for growing families

If you’re searching for an extendable dining table in Leicester, it’s worth testing how easily the mechanism operates — smooth movement and solid construction are essential.

3. Round, rectangular or oval?

The shape of your dining table can completely change the feel of a room.

Rectangular

  • Classic and versatile

  • Best for longer rooms

  • Seats larger numbers comfortably

Round

  • Encourages conversation

  • Ideal for square rooms

  • Softens the look of a space

Oval

  • Combines elegance with practicality

  • Easier flow in tighter areas

Each shape creates a different atmosphere — and choosing the right one can elevate your entire dining area.

4. Material matters more than you think

When browsing dining furniture in Leicestershire, pay attention to construction as well as style.

Solid wood

  • Durable and long-lasting

  • Timeless appeal

  • Can improve with age

Ceramic/Smart top

  • Durable and practical

  • Extremely low maintenance

  • Modern aesthetic

Painted Finishes

  • Softer, classic look

  • Works beautifully in country-style homes

A well-built dining table should feel sturdy, balanced, and substantial.

5. Consider everyday life

Ask yourself:

  • Do you host large family gatherings?

  • Do children use the table for homework?

  • Is it a formal dining room or open-plan kitchen space?

  • Will it double as a workspace?

Your lifestyle should influence your choice as much as aesthetics.

6. Invest in quality that lasts

A dining table is one of the hardest-working pieces of furniture in the home.

Lower-cost options can warp, scratch easily, or become unstable over time. Choosing well-constructed furniture ensures:

✔ Long-term durability
✔ Greater stability
✔ Better value over time
✔ A centrepiece that ages gracefully

At Langton Furnishers, we focus on dining furniture that is designed for real family living — not short-term trends.


Visit Langton Furnishers in Leicester

Our showroom offers carefully selected collections designed to suit a range of interiors — from modern family spaces to more traditional homes.

Our team is always happy to provide honest, practical advice to help you choose a table that works beautifully in your home.

Find our dining ranges here.

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