If the kitchen is the heart of a home, the kitchen dining table is the heart of the kitchen. Placed in the middle of the space, with equal distance from the stove, the sink, the pantry, or the refrigerator, a spacious table allows a person to prepare delicious food without the hassle.
Buying a dining table is an investment for some people, and for others choosing a dining table is a design statement. And for some people, a dining table is both. Dining furniture comes in such a variety of materials, sizes, and qualities that shopping for a new dining table can be overwhelming. There are several things to consider when choosing your new dining table.
First, consider the size of your dining area. Measure the room where you’ll keep your round ceramic dining table. Don’t forget to make allowances for chair space, and if diners can push back from the table without hitting a wall. Also, when diners are seated, will someone be able to pass behind the diners easily, or is it a tight squeeze? Many people might shop online for a table, so take note of the dimensions in the store’s online ad. If the table has a leaf or expands, will the table be a tight fit at its greatest size? That might be okay for a holiday dinner or large dinner party, but not suitable for a large family every day.
Consider the construction quality of a dining table. Do you want something temporary, until you decide to redesign your dining area again? Or do you have an active lifestyle with a busy family, and expect the table to withstand much wear and tear from countless meals and homework projects over the years? Many pressed kinds of wood are of high quality, but they are sensitive to extreme heat. If a ceramic tiled dining tabletop catches your eye, consider what might happen if a tile is chipped or damaged. Does the store offer any type of warranty for damage?
Then there’s upkeep to think about. Some tables may look pretty on a showroom floor, but keeping them clean is a chore. For example, consider the modern look of a glass or ceramic top tables. How smudge-free is the surface? You should consider if the table surface will be easy to clean, or if it’ll show every smudge and fingerprint.
At the furniture store, don’t succumb to sticker shock and don’t settle for the first price you’re quoted. Don’t be afraid to haggle. Many salespeople work for commission, and it’s to their advantage to not just show dining tables but to sell them. Often a store will have a clearance section with designs that are being phased out. Other times, a store might be willing to slash the price tag for a floor model. If you know you’ll need extra chairs, ask if you can purchase two extra chairs for your dining table, instead of settling for four or six. Stores might match the ad sale price of another store, or even offer you free delivery for your new dining table.
Dining tables can be expensive, but it’s one of the largest design expressions a family can make. You can find a suitable ceramic top dining table manufacturer by following these few guidelines and enjoy a table that will serve you well for years to come.
Also Read: Dining Room Decorating Guide: Arranging Dining Room Table Sets and More