Square Tables: Right for You?

Square tables are a shape of table you don’t see as often, but for some, this may be the shape that best fits their needs. We’ve previously discussed round tables and its pros and cons. Today, we’ll be doing the same, but instead putting square tables on the stand.

Traditional over-sized square tables with custom carved legs.

Let’s go over a few dimensions to keep in mind when planning out your space. For now, table shape becomes irrelevant. No matter your table shape, allow a minimum of 30-36 inches for wall or furniture clearance. For high traffic areas, the more room the better. If possible allow yourself 48-60 inches. Finally, factor 24 inches per person for elbow room. This is subject to change depending on level of comfort but start there. When planning out your space, these dimensions are perfect to use as a general rule. Take a look at the chart below. This will give you a general idea of how many seats the various size tables allow.

Pros of Square Tables

Each family will look for different elements to best fit their needs. One of the big pros of square tables are their conversation flow. Guests tend to face one another more directly since the design stretches out less than other table shapes. This creates a more intimate feel and encourages conversation. Frequently entertain or have unexpected guests join in for meals? Square tables are more efficient when it comes to space. Diagram for square tables seating chartsAdditionally, you have less dead space with this shape table. What we’re referring to is the space left unused in the center of the table. Unlike for other table shapes, this is not much of a concern. This might seem a no-brainer, but square rooms and square tables are a great use of space since their shapes mirror one another. Last of all, square tables fit more easily into smaller spaces such as corner nooks. They can snug right in!

Cons of Square Tables

One of the more relevant cons for square tables is they don’t work well in rectangular rooms. Why? Because two sides of the table will be closer to the walls than the opposite two sides, giving a sense of crowding. Even if the room is large enough to allow for ample space, the mismatched proportion appears cramped. If you’re looking into a larger square table, reaching for food and other items may become more difficult and thus you may want to consider a lazy Susan. This could be made in a round or even square shape to mirror the table. A final con is the adjacent corners. You want to ensure that the corner chairs aren’t too tight. If you have a certain number of seats you want available but don’t have the room to make that happen, you can modify. What we’ve spontaneously deemed as a hybrid, can save your room plan. If you have a room that is wide, but short, the use of a hybrid would apply. To answer your question as to what we’re talking about, it’s a blend Small square tables in medium brown table with a belly pedestalbetween rectangular and square tables. For an example, take a 60×60 table, the dimensions would be changed to 65×55. This would fatten up the ends, allowing room for more while working with the shape of the space. Thus, a con, turned pro with a few modifications!

We’ve got two more table shapes to go as we examine their pros and cons. There’s no general right or wrong answer, but rather right and wrong for your home and your needs. Check out our blog touching on Round Tables. We simply want to aid you in choosing what is best for your home. Our tables are built to last and because of this we want you to make the choice that is best for you the first time!

Curious about adding another custom furniture piece to your home? Check out our Custom Tables and Chairs or Other Furniture to get some ideas. Looking for a table now? We’ve got it handled with our ready-made tables in our Current Inventory. All ready to be purchased!

Any additional questions? We’d love to hear from you. You can easily contact us a Rustic Elements Furniture. We hope to hear from you!

 

 

 

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