Tables and chairs for the kitchen are the main components in the design of the dining area. These interior items, in addition to fulfilling their main purpose, also perform an aesthetic function, giving the room an attractive appearance . That is why it is so important to choose exactly the set that will ideally match the style, design and color scheme of the kitchen, without cluttering up the space.
Basic criteria for selecting furniture for a dining room
So, how to choose a kitchen table and other related furniture? There are at least 3 criteria that you should definitely adhere to:
- The kitchen table and chairs must be comfortable. The most beautiful furniture sets may turn out to be impractical and inconvenient - and this will lead to quick disappointment from the purchase. A good option would be a chair with an ergonomic seat that completely follows the structure of the human body. Roomy tables with drawers, as well as wide chairs complemented by armrests, are considered comfortable.
- A table and chairs for the kitchen are purchased at the final stage of renovation - when the design direction of the interior becomes obvious. However, this rule can be neglected if you buy furniture according to a pre-created design project. Popular today are dining tables made in a classic style - this is the effectiveness and quality of natural wood. However, plastic models are also not inferior in popularity - such furniture will best demonstrate the originality of the high-tech style. You can vary not only the material, but also the color - now it is not uncommon to see both wooden surfaces in traditional colors and rich positive shades of plastic - scarlet, orange, yellow. A dining table made of glass – frosted, mirrored, tinted or transparent – would also be an effective solution.
- When choosing tables and chairs for the kitchen, you cannot ignore the dimensions of the structure. For convenience, an adult needs a space 60-70 cm wide. Large dining tables create a feeling of limitlessness and volume in the space. Standard parameters for a dining table: 1200 mm length, 750 mm height, 750-800 mm width. This kitchen table can easily accommodate 4 people.
Round dining tables must have a diameter of at least 900 mm.
Oval and round designs require more space than square and rectangular ones.
Chandeliers
The overall mood of the room largely depends on the chosen lighting. The size of the chandelier and its location depends on where the dining table will be placed. There can be several options for placing light in the kitchen:
- A large lamp located in the center of the dining table. This is considered a classic option that can be used in any size room. The main thing is to place the chandelier so that the spot of light covers the entire tabletop, and not just a separate part of it. The distance from the table surface to the lamp should be 150 cm. Some models are height adjustable by lowering or raising the lamp. Thanks to this function, the chandelier becomes not just an object of lighting, but a design device. It is best to choose lampshades or shades that softly cast light. This will help avoid blinding people sitting at the table. They can be made of translucent or frosted glass.
Large lamp located in the center of the dining table
- Several pendant lamps. To avoid a feeling of clutter, you should choose small lampshades. If the table in the kitchen is of a standard size, then 2-3 lamps will be enough; for small furniture or a small space in the room - one.
- Lamps with long bases. This option is best used to illuminate a large dining area. A group of small lamps that are located at different heights looks impressive. They can be arranged in the form of geometric shapes or chaotically.
- Built-in spot lighting. To install them, you need to install a plasterboard structure. It can be several levels, thereby helping to divide the space into several zones.
- Busbar system of lamps. It is installed if the table will be moved in the kitchen. Lamps can be rotated in the desired direction, moved or grouped.
Glass version
Before creating a specific lighting system in the kitchen, you should fully think through the design and select all the fittings. It should be consistent with the overall style of the room.
How to choose the right material
High-quality kitchen furniture means good assembly and wear-resistant material. Modern dining tables and chairs are most often made from:
- Wood . This is the most traditional and universal option; it is especially relevant if wooden elements are already used in the kitchen interior - furniture fronts or wall panels. The solid wood dining set harmonizes with any style kitchen.
And for classic styles, wooden furniture is a fundamental trend.
The dining table is made of mahogany, beech, oak, alder, pine or ash. The furniture of the dining group should match the rest of the set within the same tone, but it is also possible to build groups in contrast.
- Rattan _ Wicker furniture best conveys the atmosphere of comfort and chic of a country house.
This natural and environmentally friendly material is characterized by strength and elasticity, but chairs need to be wiped regularly so that dust and small crumbs do not accumulate in the cracks of rattan chairs. The rattan dining table and chairs are perfectly complemented by textiles, metal, and wood.
- Glass . The tabletop is made from this material - it should have a thickness of 10 mm if it is a solid product, and 8 mm if we are talking about inserts. The best dining table is made of hardened triplex, which does not shatter into fragments upon impact.
Such furniture can be sliding or monolithic, and is most often decorated in a modern style.
Here a lot depends on the design of the legs of the structure - they can be made of forged metal, wood, wicker, or with a chrome surface.
The finish of the glass also varies - it can be transparent or matte, painted or with photo printing, glossy or mirrored.
In combination with chairs made of plastic or chromed steel, such furniture will become the basis of a kitchen in a high-tech, loft or minimalist style.
Disadvantages : glass is more difficult to clean than wood. In addition, not all people are comfortable at such a table - the surface seems cold, fragile and too “ringing”. It is quite difficult to break such a tabletop, but it still needs to be handled with care.
- Veneered MDF . Such furniture will look almost the same as wooden furniture, but more laconic due to the absence of complex curvilinear decors.
- Painted MDF is one of the most elegant options, but is unstable in case of mechanical damage. Such a dining table is often covered with glass on top, and chairs with chrome legs and eco-leather seats are chosen as additions.
- Laminated chipboard is a standard budget option for kitchens. The surface of such a material can imitate many textures. Disadvantages: the occurrence of plastic chips from mechanical damage, bubbles from humidity, in appearance it is inferior to natural materials.
How many legs does a table have?
There are 4 common options:
- One leg as a central support structure is a simple and stable option. It is more comfortable to sit at such a table, because the risk of hitting the furniture legs is reduced.
- Two legs are not the best option, although visually it looks aesthetically pleasing and cozy. The huge disadvantage of such supports is that the legs will not have enough free space.
- Three legs are most often found in round models. This is the most convenient, functional and beautiful option.
- Four legs are a comfortable traditional option that suits everyone.
Bar counter in the kitchen as a dining group
Can a counter and bar stool replace a full-fledged dining area? Only in certain cases - for example, for quick snacks and breakfasts. But if the kitchen is small and you don’t often invite guests, then why not?
And in kitchens combined with a living room, a bar table with chairs will certainly find use as space delimiters, an additional dining and work area.
Dimensions of the bar counter: height can be 86/91/110/120/130 cm. A narrow bar table has a width of 30-50 cm, the standard version is 60 cm. The length should be such that there is at least 60 cm and there remained a passage at least 1 m wide. The bar stool has a standard height of 75 cm and 85 cm, but there are a variety of options. It is advisable that the height of the seat of the ball is approximately 30 cm below the table.
Folding options or solutions are also possible when a narrow window sill turns into a bar counter.
A bar stool about 50-60 cm high will suit a window sill converted into a bar table.
General requirements for furnishing a small kitchen
When designing small kitchen spaces, functionality and ergonomics are primarily considered, and when choosing materials, they are based on the concepts of hygiene and economy. Kitchens experience higher humidity and temperatures, which affects the environment. Also an important feature of the room is frequent wet cleaning . Therefore, furniture is selected that can be cleaned without causing damage to it. Or which is inexpensive and easy to change.
Today, glass tables on metal supports remain the priority. They are durable and easy to clean with a damp cloth and non-abrasive detergents.
If you like chairs with fabric seats, then you need to choose upholstery made of durable textiles that can be wiped with a damp cloth (microfiber, flock).
It is preferable to purchase chairs on metal frames with seats upholstered in leather or leatherette
Suggestions for decorating the dining area
To make it easier for buyers to choose, manufacturers conventionally divide furniture into classic and modern, which simplifies the creation of the interior of a room. If you purchase a ready-made kit, you can save a lot of time. Because the ideal combination of furniture pieces will already be ensured. And all that remains is to decide on the location of the individual elements.
Interior of a small kitchen in a modern style
There are 3 main options for placing a table in a small kitchen - near the window, in the center, in the corner or against the wall:
- It’s nice to sit near the window at any time, especially if there is a beautiful view outside. If the wall with a window is narrow, then it is better to place the table with its end facing the window. An interesting option is when a window sill is used as a tabletop. This product is made to order and can have different shapes.
- The corner arrangement is considered the most common and successful when using a round table, which is complemented by a sofa. This arrangement creates a cozy atmosphere in the room. The advantage of the arrangement is that the set takes up little space.
- You can install a table of any shape near the wall. If the kitchen is narrow, then it makes sense to purchase a bar model. To prevent an empty wall from irritating the eye, you can hang several calm paintings. Advantages - the table takes up little space, the area by the window remains free. The disadvantage is that not everyone will agree to “rest” their gaze on the wall.
If kitchen furniture is purchased separately, then more attention should be paid to the choice of shades of materials. It is well known that light shades visually expand the space. This effect can be emphasized by using glossy facades and furniture with bright color accents.
Such a solution will remove the monotony of the situation and help visually influence the geometry of the room. An excellent option is glass furniture and transparent plastic chairs. Such “transparency” of the environment will give the room light and space.
To make the decor of a small room look organic, you must adhere to the basic rule - the simpler, the more comfortable and better.
Rules for choosing chairs for a dining group
The dining table should be complemented by appropriate companions - chairs should be practical, reliable, lightweight, made of hygienic, easy-to-care, moisture-resistant materials and, of course, harmonize with the color and design of the table.
If the chairs are made of solid wood, then they must be subjected to additional treatment with moisture-proof compounds.
In modern kitchens, furniture such as chairs made of plastic or acrylic, complemented by a chrome-plated metal frame, will also look good.
Transparent, seemingly “invisible” chairs are perfect for a small kitchen.
Chairs can have hard seats, soft or semi-soft seats. In the latter cases, the upholstery is often made of microfiber - a high-quality and practical material with water- and dirt-repellent properties. This furniture is often complemented by upholstery made of durable Teflon-impregnated material, leatherette or leather.
See also the material: How to clean a sofa and other upholstered furniture at home.
Don't want to choose chairs that match the color of the table and furniture? Choose chairs that match the curtains or some color accent (wall, backsplash, decor, etc.).
Sliding mechanisms
Sliding mechanisms are needed in a house where a large family rarely gathers at the table or where they are accustomed to frequently receiving guests.
All mechanisms are divided into three groups:
Simple mechanisms
The elementary and most famous mechanism can be called a table-book. This is the simplest design, where two or one wing is raised on a piano hinge to the level of the tabletop and supported by an additional leg. The second simple solution is to mechanically move the parts of the tabletop to the sides. The insert part is removed and placed manually in the middle of the table.
Complex bearing mechanisms
In the center of the table there is an insert or even several that extend the tabletop. Sometimes, instead of a central insert, the mechanism raises two wings from the sides of the tabletop.
Complex lifting mechanisms
Allows you to turn a dining table into a coffee table. In studio apartments, when the kitchen is not separated from the living room by a wall, this function will come in handy.
Some models combine two mechanisms.
The simpler the mechanism, the less chance there is of serious damage.
For a family of 3-4 people, it is not necessary to purchase a large table. It is enough to buy a compact sliding model. Folding structures increase the table area, which is important for hospitable homes and large families.
Several design recommendations for choosing a stylish dining set
A classic dining table is certainly made of wood; its main decoration will be its noble natural texture and rich color.
In classic or modern styles, a forged dining table will be appropriate - its tabletop can be made of wood or glass, and the splendor of the metal is demonstrated by spectacular legs.
In a vintage interior, patinated coatings will look most impressive.
White kitchen furniture is considered universal, looks neat and can be used in any style.
However, do not forget that the trend is bright colors and contrasts, which are typical for dining groups made of both plastic and wood.
A kitchen table with ceramic tiles will also be spectacular - an expressive solution for Arabic or Moroccan designs, stylish and bright (in this case, the base is covered with a mosaic pattern).
And don’t forget that kitchen furniture should be harmonious - the textures of the coverings on the table and chairs are identical. In addition, the law of similarity applies - square chairs are chosen for a square table, and so on.
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Forms
In order to determine the acceptable shape of the table specifically for your kitchen, it is worth considering its area and design.
Rectangular
This shape is good because it fits almost any interior and because it can fit perfectly anywhere in the kitchen. A rectangular transformable table does not take up much space and, due to its functionality, can solve the problem of seating a large company (up to 10 people).
Oval
A good solution for both modern and classic kitchens. Oval-shaped tables are considered the most spacious in terms of the number of seats intended for seating, and also the least dangerous.
Square
Square tables are a godsend for a miniature kitchen. However, it is worth considering the fact that the maximum number of seats does not exceed four, provided that the table is in the center of the room.
Round
Round ones look laconic in the center of the room and complement it, but are completely unsuitable for placing them against the wall. Think about ergonomics in advance and analyze whether this option is suitable for your kitchen.
additional characteristics
If you have additional requirements for kitchen chairs, be sure to take them into account when selecting them. It could be:
- presence of footrests;
- presence of armrests;
- possibility of transformation (folding options);
- compact storage (stackable models);
- orthopedic properties;
- adjustable parameters (height and angle of backrest, height of seat and armrests, etc.).
Beautiful, stylish, metal chairs for the kitchen
Mini sofa
Small sofas can make the eating area more comfortable. The most commonly used are corner models. They provide a large number of comfortable seats.
Based on them, you can arrange not only a corner for eating, but also a full-fledged workplace for working with a laptop.
You can also sit comfortably on it while watching TV shows and movies.
Children who are used to learning homework, reading or drawing while their mother prepares food will definitely appreciate the benefits of such upholstered furniture.
When choosing, you should give preference to models with a straight back. The presence of armrests will complicate the process of seating at the table too much, so it is also better to avoid them.
Don't forget to take the appropriate measurements before purchasing the model you like. It should fit perfectly into the allotted space.
In a small kitchen, every centimeter of free space is important.
Some corner sofas are equipped with drawers built under the seats. You should think of them as additional storage space for things that are available in quite an impressive amount in the kitchen.
Rectangular
Rectangular kitchen tables are the most common solution for us. Often they are located against the wall, but in this case one or two members of your family will see a blank wall in front of their eyes while eating.
This problem can be solved by placing a table in front of the window. Such an idea can only be realized with a suitable room configuration.
On a rectangular tabletop it will be possible to place a fairly large number of dishes and utensils without crowding the people sitting behind it.
The disadvantages of rectangular models include the presence of sharp corners. In limited space this can be a real problem.
Especially for children aged 2-4 years, whose height is approximately comparable to the height of the table top. It will be difficult to avoid bruises and bumps.
With backrest
Chairs with a backrest are characterized by increased convenience and comfort. If the dimensions of the room allow you to place several of these items, give preference to models made on a metal frame.
Natural wood visually looks heavier and more massive, which overloads the surrounding space. But admirers of classic interiors cannot do without them.
Chairs made of transparent plastic will look original, light and weightless. A rich color palette will allow everyone to choose models that will ideally complement the given range of kitchen design.
Questions and answers
What is the height of the kitchen table?
From the floor to the tabletop, the standard height is 75-77 cm. By individual order, the table can be made higher. However, regular chairs fit standard models in height.
Which table to choose for a family of 6 people? Our kitchen is only 8 square meters. m.
A table with an extendable tabletop is suitable for a small room. The optimal option would be a table size 110x75 when folded and 150x75 when unfolded.
What types of trees are used to make the most reliable and durable tables?
Kitchen tables are made from different types of wood. Oak, beech, ash, and pine are considered the hardiest.
I have my eye on a table covered with ceramic tiles. How is it used?
Ceramic tiles will last a long time. It tolerates changes in humidity and temperature well. She is easy to care for. However, crumbs and dust can accumulate in the seams between the tiles. When wiping the surface, special attention must be paid to the seams.
What is the longest folding table in existence?
Some models can be unfolded in several stages and reach a length of 3.5 meters. There are tables 5 meters long.
