Why do I need to measure for a dining set?
Picture the scene: you’ve trawled through hundreds of pages, battled endless tabs, and conquered countless customisation options to choose your perfect dining table and chairs - only to realise upon delivery that they don’t fit in your room.
Nobody likes that disappointing delivery feeling, so we’re committed to giving you all the tools and advice you need to be confident in your furniture choices. You’ll need a dining set that fills space without squashing your guests into corners, so knowing the dimensions your room can accommodate is key.
1. Choose a spot
The first step in your journey to a dream dining room is choosing the perfect position.
Do you want your dining table as a social centrepiece in the middle of the room or pushed up against the wall for practicality in a smaller space? Key things to consider at this stage include pesky doors and radiators that might get in the way, how many people you’re hoping to squeeze on, and whether a rectangular or circular table would look best in your room.
If you’re struggling to see the vision, why not use our handy room planner to experiment with different layout ideas?
2. Measure your space
It’s measuring tape time! With your perfect placement picked, the next step is to work out the dimensions of a dining table your space can accommodate.
Start by measuring the width of the space you have available - this will be the most important measurement if you’re eyeing up a rectangular or oval table - then the depth. If these two numbers are similar, you might fancy a square or circle table to make the most of your space and embrace a bit of symmetrical sophistication. You may also want to measure the ideal height for your table - especially if you have any low-hanging decor or you’re matching your new table to existing dining chairs.
Top tip - we recommend allowing 70-90cm of space between your table and any obstacles or walkways to allow plenty of room for chairs. Remember to minus this number from your measurements in any direction you plan to have a seat!
3. Outline and visualise
If you’re struggling to navigate the numbers and see the vision, why not make it visual?
Outlining the measurements you’ve taken lets you get a feel for what your dining table will eventually look like and can help you decide whether you need to think bigger, smaller, or even circular! It’s simple to do - using masking tape, newspaper, or anything you can find, outline and fill the area you’ve measured in the shape of the dining table you expect to buy.
It’s a good idea to have your outline set up over a couple of days so you can familiarise yourself with how the shape and size works in day-to-day life. Can you easily walk around your space without crossing the line? Do doors and drawers open with plenty of room to spare? Do any dining chairs you already have fit around the shape you’ve chosen? If the answer to any of these questions is no, you can adjust and alter your outline to better suit your needs.
Extendable dining tables
Perfect for smaller dining rooms, these tables cleverly extend to offer plenty of room for guests when you’re hosting, and can be neatly concealed when not in use. For function without the bulk!
Wooden dining tables
From the natural warmth of solid oak to affordable, low-maintenance wood veneer - there’s a reason a wooden dining table is a staple of British furniture. Classic, cosy, countryside charm.
Glass dining tables
Practical, timeless, and effortlessly chic. Glass dining tables are super stylish, with added benefits like brightening up your room and being easy to clean.
Round dining tables
If your goal is making the most of your space, a round dining table is perfect for squeezing in more chairs and can add sophisticated charm amongst otherwise angular decor.
Marble dining tables
Looking for luxury? Marble brings effortless elegance to your dining room - for when you want to make a true statement with your centrepiece.
Square dining tables
A square table can really amp up the communal factor of your dining room, so they’re great for families and friendly gatherings. Plus, symmetry never goes out of style!
Dining sets
If you’re going for a total dining room revamp, a table and chairs set is an easy way to ensure you’re making a cohesive and comfortable choice. Just like individual tables, our dining sets come in all manner of materials and styles with both chairs and benches, so you’re bound to find something that suits you.
More dining room inspiration
From choosing the right table to maximising a small space, check out more expert ideas to help nail your dining room makeover.
Dining furniture buying guide
Ready to create your dream dining room set up? Our handy dining furniture buying guide is here to help you do exactly that.
Dining set measuring guide
Buying a new dining set? Check out our complete measuring guide for dining sets from DFS to ensure a perfect fit that'll suit your space and needs.
Dining trends & articles
Make the most of meal times with our helpful dining articles, from handy hosting guides to tips on dressing your table for every occasion.
The DFS guide to hosting at home
Struggling to fit all your furniture into your dining room décor? Take a look at our small dining room decorating ideas to find out how to maximise space.
5 Modern dining room design ideas
Sprucing up your dining room has never been easier with these modern dining room ideas.
Small dining room ideas
Struggling to fit all your furniture into your dining room décor? Take a look at our small dining room decorating ideas to find out how to maximise space.
Scandi dining room ideas
In this article, we will talk through the steps of creating a stunning Scandinavian dining area, complete with a Scandi-style dining table and all the stylish trimmings.
Perfect your dining room decor
Looking for some inviting and cosy dining room inspiration? Check out our top four dining room decor tips to make your space perfect for hosting.
How to dress your dining table
Whether graciously hosting guests or simply serving the regular dinner crowd, your dining table is the beating heart of your dining area – so let’s dress it up for the occasion!
