Buying Your First Dining Set

Buying your first dining set is a rite of passage into adulthood. It’s like the first time you make a roast dinner that doesn’t end in a smoke alarm serenade. But, like trying to decide if you’re more of a Coronation Street or EastEnders fan, choosing the right set can be a bit overwhelming.

Fear not, because we’re here to guide you through a delightful maze of tables and chairs that will transform your dining space into the ultimate glow-up. One that’s filled with the promise of long, laughter-filled meals and the occasional emergency Zoom meeting over burnt toast.

Finding The Perfect Dining Set For Your Home

Choosing a dining set isn’t just about functionality. It’s about creating a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle. It’s about creating a place where memories are made. Think about it. Cosy family dinners, boozy brunches with friends and even those quiet moments with a good book and a cup of tea. Your dining set is the backdrop to it all.

So, where do you start? Well, let’s start with the table, the star of the show.

Choosing The Right Dining Table For Your First Dining Set

The dining table is the centrepiece of any dining set, the anchor of your dining space. It sets the tone for the entire room, so choosing the right one is crucial. From sleek stone dining tables that exude modern elegance to warm solid oak wood dining tables that create a cosy atmosphere, there’s a table out there for everyone. And let’s not forget the sleek allure of glass dining tables.

Stone Dining Table: A Touch of Modern Elegance
If you’re after a touch of sophisticated cool, stone dining tables are the way to go. Imagine a stunning marble or granite table, its smooth surface gleaming under the light. They’re incredibly durable and add a real wow factor to any room. Perfect for those who love a modern or industrial aesthetic. They’re also surprisingly easy to clean, just a quick wipe and you’re done. But be warned, they can be heavy, like trying to move a sofa by yourself.

Oak Wood Dining Table: Warmth and Character
For a classic, timeless look, you can’t go wrong with a solid oak wood dining table. They bring warmth and character to any space, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. Whether you prefer a rustic farmhouse style or a more contemporary design, an oak wood dining table is a versatile choice. Imagine cosy Sunday roasts with the family, the smell of gravy in the air and laughter echoing around the room. It’s that kind of feeling that an oak table evokes.

Glass Dining Table: Creating Space and Light
If you’re looking to create a sense of space, especially in a smaller room, glass dining tables are a fantastic option. They allow light to flow through the room, making it feel brighter and airier. They also add a touch of modern sophistication. Just be prepared for the occasional fingerprint, a bit like trying to keep a toddler’s hands clean.

Dining Table Shapes For Different Dining Sets & Spaces

The shape of your dining table is just as important as the material. It can affect the flow of your room and the overall dining experience.

Round Dining Tables: Social and Intimate
Round dining tables are perfect for creating a sociable atmosphere. They encourage conversation and make it easy for everyone to interact. They’re also great for smaller spaces as they don’t have any sharp corners.

Square Dining Tables: Compact and Cosy
Square dining tables are ideal for smaller dining areas or for those who prefer a more intimate dining experience. They create a sense of balance and symmetry in a room.

Rectangular Dining Tables: Versatile For Any Occasion
Rectangular dining tables are the most common choice, offering plenty of seating space and working well in various room sizes. They’re perfect for both everyday meals and larger gatherings.

Extending Dining Tables: Flexible When Needed
For those who like to be prepared for anything, extending dining tables are a game-changer. They can easily be adjusted to accommodate extra guests, making them perfect for parties and family gatherings. It’s like having a magic table that can grow and shrink as needed.

Choosing The Perfect Dining Chairs To Complete Your First Dining Set

Now that you’ve chosen your perfect table, it’s time to find the perfect chairs. This is where you can really inject your personality into your dining space.

Swivel Dining Chairs: Fun and Functional
Swivel dining chairs add a touch of fun and practicality to your dining area. They allow you to easily turn and chat with everyone at the table, making them perfect for lively dinner parties and social gatherings. No more awkward twisting in your seat to join the conversation. They’re also great for smaller spaces, as they allow you to easily get in and out from the table without having to pull the chair back. Consider swivel chairs with a sturdy base for stability. Some even come with added features like adjustable height or built-in lumbar support for extra comfort. They’re a great way to add a bit of personality and playfulness to your dining space.

Traditional-Style Dining Chairs: Timeless Elegance
If you prefer a classic and timeless look, traditional-style upholstered dining chairs are a great choice. They often feature elegant shapes, rich fabrics like leather or linen, or wood-only frames crafted from rich woods such as mahogany, oak or walnut, and ornate details like carved legs, button tufting or nailhead trim. These chairs evoke a sense of heritage and sophistication, adding a touch of formality to your dining area. They work particularly well in more traditional or formal dining rooms, but can also add a touch of classic charm to a more contemporary space. Look for chairs with well-padded seats and backrests for optimal comfort during long dinners.

Glam-Style Upholstered Dining Chairs: Adding a Touch of Luxury
If you’re after a touch of glamour, upholstered dining chairs are the perfect choice. Think plush velvet, elegant curves, and perhaps even some button detailing. To further enhance the glamorous look, consider adding luxurious accessories like faux fur throws, satin cushions or decorative pillows. These chairs instantly elevate your dining space, adding a dash of Hollywood glamour. They’re perfect for creating a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere, ideal for special occasions and stylish dinner parties. Look for chairs with high-quality upholstery and sturdy frames for both comfort and durability. Consider metallic accents, such as gold or silver legs, to complete the glamorous look.

Scandi-Style Dining Chairs: Simple and Stylish
For a more minimalist and relaxed look, Scandi-style upholstered dining chairs are a great option. They feature clean lines, simple silhouettes, natural materials like light wood (beech, birch, or ash) and neutral colours such as white, grey and beige, often with pops of pastel. These chairs create a calm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for casual dining and everyday use. They’re often designed with comfort and functionality in mind, featuring ergonomic shapes and comfortable seating. Look for chairs with natural wood frames and simple, understated upholstery. They work well in modern, minimalist, or Scandi-inspired interiors.

Cantilever Dining Chairs: Modern and Comfortable
Cantilever dining chairs offer a unique and modern design, creating a visually striking ‘floating’ effect. They’re known for their comfortable and supportive seating due to the flexibility of the frame. The lack of back legs gives them a sleek and contemporary look, making them a great choice for modern dining areas. They often feature metal frames, combined with materials like leather, fabric or mesh for the seat and back. They’re also surprisingly sturdy and durable, despite their seemingly delicate design. They’re a great way to add a touch of contemporary flair to your dining space.

Modern Dining Sets For Every Home and Interior Style

Whether you live in a bijou flat in Bethnal Green or a sprawling country pile in the Cotswolds, there’s a dining set to suit your space and style. Think about your overall interior design. Are you a fan of the clean lines of modern design, the cosy charm of country style, the retro vibes of mid-century modern, the relaxed feel of Scandi, or the eclectic mix of boho? Your dining set should complement your existing decor.

Let’s break down some popular styles:

Modern: Think clean lines, minimalist silhouettes and neutral colours. Materials like metal, glass, and concrete are often used.

Country: This style embraces natural materials like wood and stone, with warm colours and rustic textures. Think farmhouse tables and comfortable upholstered chairs.

Mid-Century Modern: This style is characterised by clean lines, organic shapes and tapered legs. Warm wood tones and rich colours are often used.

Scandi: This style is all about simplicity, functionality and natural materials. Light woods, neutral colours and clean lines are key.

Boho: This style is eclectic and relaxed, with a mix of patterns, textures and colours. Natural materials like rattan and wood are often used.

Here are a few styling tips to bring your dining area to life:

Rugs: A rug can define the dining space, especially in open-plan living. Ensure it’s large enough for all chairs to sit comfortably on it even when pulled out.

Lighting: Layer your lighting with a statement pendant light above the table for focused light, and add wall sconces or a floor lamp for a softer ambient glow.

Centrepieces: From a simple vase of flowers to a carefully curated collection of decorative objects, a centrepiece adds personality.

Textiles: Add cushions or throws to your dining chairs for extra comfort and to introduce colour and texture.

Your Dining Set: More Than Just A Place To Eat

So, there you have it. Your ultimate guide to finding the perfect first dining set. Now go forth and create a dining space that you’ll love for years to come. After all, it’s more than just a place to eat. It’s the heart of your home, the stage for life’s little moments.

And remember, whether you’re enjoying a full English breakfast after a heavy night watching Love Island, a Sunday roast with the family or just a quiet cup of tea and a digestive biscuit, your dining set is where the magic happens. Good food, good company and good times – guaranteed!

KEY TAKEAWAYS ABOUT BUYING YOUR FIRST DINING SET

• DO measure your space (and then measure it again). This is absolutely crucial, especially in the UK where homes can vary dramatically in size. Don’t just eyeball it! Get a tape measure and accurately measure the length and width of your dining area. Consider the room’s shape. Is it a long, narrow space or a more square room? This will influence the best shape of table. Crucially, allow enough space for people to comfortably move around the table, even when chairs are pulled out. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 75cm-90cm between the edge of the table and any walls or other furniture. This prevents a cramped feeling and allows for easy access.

• DON’T sacrifice comfort for style (you’ll regret it during long dinners). While aesthetics are undoubtedly important, don’t prioritise style over comfort. You’ll be spending a considerable amount of time sitting on these chairs, so they need to be comfortable. A beautiful but uncomfortable chair will quickly become a source of frustration. Look for chairs with good back support, padded seats and appropriate seat height.

• DO visit a Furniture Outlet Store if you can (to experience the furniture firsthand). While online browsing is convenient, visiting Furniture Outlet in person allows you to truly experience the quality and comfort of our dining sets. You can see the different materials, sit on the chairs and get a real sense of the size and scale of the furniture. With the largest selection of dining tables and chairs on display of any bricks-and-mortar retailer in the UK, it’s well worth a visit to your nearest store.

• DON’T ignore the style of your existing decor (creating a clash in your home). Your new dining set should complement the overall style of your home. If you have a modern minimalist living room, a rustic farmhouse dining set might look out of place. Consider the colours, materials and overall aesthetic of your existing furniture and choose a dining set that harmonises with it. This creates a cohesive and stylish look throughout your home.

• DO take advantage of the interest free credit* available at Furniture Outlet (to spread the cost). Buying a new dining set can be a significant investment, but Furniture Outlet offer 0% APR finance options to help you spread the cost over manageable monthly payments. This can make it much easier to afford your dream dining set without putting a strain on your finances. *Subject to status

• DON’T forget about delivery (and potential access issues): Before you finalise your purchase, check the delivery options and costs. Consider whether the furniture will fit through your doorways and hallways. If you live in a flat or have restricted access, you may need to arrange special delivery arrangements. Furniture Outlet offer a 5-star, room of choice delivery & home assembly service, so be sure to discuss your specific needs with them.

What Other Interior Design Experts Say About Dining Sets…

“An interior designer’s trick is to install lighting in odd numbers, especially in threes. This can work well with lighting and can be applied to pendant lighting to add a modern and clean look.”
Myra Butterworth at Mail Online

Read More: How to create a dining room that could sell your home

“When shopping for furniture, think long-term. Interior designers agree that considering longevity is critical, both from a quality and design perspective.”
Hallie Milstein at Southern Living

Read More: 14 mistakes to avoid when buying new furniture

“The best dining tables tick two important boxes: they look good and they’re practical. Choosing a new dining table isn’t a decision to be taken lightly, though. After all, furniture of this stature can be a sizeable investment.”
Zoe Phillimore at The Independent

Read More: Best dining tables for entertaining in style

Buying Your First Dining Set – FAQs

What size dining set do I need?

This is a crucial first step. Getting the size right makes all the difference. It totally depends on your room and how many people you need to put on seats regularly. Grab your trusty tape measure and get accurate measurements of your dining area. That’s length, width, the whole shebang. Don’t just guesstimate! Think about the room’s shape too. A long, narrow space needs a different approach than a square one. And here’s the golden rule: leave at least 75-90cm between the table’s edge and the nearest wall or furniture. This gives everyone enough wiggle room, even when chairs are pulled out. Trust us, it avoids that awkward “excuse me, just squeezing past” dance. If you regularly have extra guests, an extending table could be a lifesaver.

What shape dining table is best?

Ah, the shape game. Each shape brings its own vibe. Round tables? Brilliant for cosy chats and creating a sociable atmosphere. Everyone can see and chat to everyone else. They’re also great for smaller spaces as they don’t have sharp corners to bump into. Square tables are fab for intimate meals, perfect for couples or small families. They create a nice sense of balance too. Then you’ve got rectangular tables, the classic choice. Super versatile, they offer plenty of space for larger groups and fit well in most rooms.

What material is best for a dining table?

This is where practicality meets style. Each material has its own pros and cons. Stone dining tables, like marble or granite, are seriously stylish, tough as nails and add a touch of luxury. Oak wood dining tables are a classic for a reason, they bring warmth and character and are durable. Glass dining tables are sleek and modern, making rooms feel bigger and brighter. Think about your lifestyle and how much time you have for upkeep.

Are stone dining tables durable?

Absolutely, stone dining tables are incredibly durable and built to last. They’re highly resistant to scratches and heat, making them ideal for busy households. However, as they’re natural materials, some stones can be porous and might need sealing to prevent staining. If this is a concern, consider sintered stone instead of marble. Sintered stone has a non-porous surface, making it highly resistant to stains, spills, scratches and heat. Also, one thing to keep in mind is that stone tables can be quite heavy, so consider this if you plan on moving it around.

What are the advantages of an extending dining table?

Extending tables are absolute game-changers for anyone who occasionally needs extra seating but doesn’t have the space for a huge table all the time. They offer the ultimate in flexibility. You can keep it compact for everyday use and then extend it when you have guests over for dinner or special occasions. It’s a really practical solution for smaller homes.

How do I choose comfortable dining chairs?

This is a biggie! You don’t want your guests (or yourself) fidgeting throughout dinner. Comfort is key, so don’t just go for the prettiest chair. Look for good back support, your spine will thank you. Padded seats are a must for those long, leisurely meals. And check the seat height. You want your legs to be comfortable under the table. If you can, pop into your nearest Furniture Outlet Store and give some chairs a test drive.

What style of dining set should I choose?

Your dining set should be a reflection of your own style and fit seamlessly with the rest of your home. It’s all about creating a cohesive look. Do you love the clean lines of modern design? Or the cosy feel of a country kitchen? Perhaps you’re drawn to the retro charm of mid-century modern or the relaxed vibes of Scandi. Whatever your taste, Furniture Outlet have a huge variety to choose from, so you’re bound to find something you love.

How much should I spend on a dining set?

It’s all about setting a budget before you get tempted by all the lovely furniture out there. Prices can vary massively depending on size, materials and the overall style. It’s easy to get carried away, so having a budget in mind will keep you on track. The good news is Furniture Outlet have a great range of options to suit different budgets, plus our clearance stock is a treasure trove for bargain hunters.

What is the best way to clean and care for my first dining set?

Keeping your dining set looking its best is easier than you think. For most tables, a regular wipe down with a damp cloth and mild detergent is all you need. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish. For wooden tables, use coasters and placemats to protect the surface from heat and spills. For upholstered chairs, vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt, and spot clean any stains with a mild upholstery cleaner. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific guidance.

For stubborn stains that just won’t budge, or for a really deep clean, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. They have the expertise and specialised equipment to tackle tough stains without damaging your furniture. This can be especially helpful for delicate fabrics or valuable pieces. Plus, it saves you time and effort.

Discover Your Ideal First Dining Set At Furniture Outlet

Now, here’s where things get really exciting. At Furniture Outlet, you can create your dream dining set with our incredible Mix & Match options. With over 2,000 combinations of dining sets available, you’re guaranteed to find something you adore. Our outlets boast the largest selection of dining tables and chairs on display of any bricks-and-mortar retailer in the UK, so you can see the variety and feel the quality for yourself. Plus, everything is in stock and ready to go, so no agonising wait times!

We offer on-trend designs and amazing value dining sets from our own exclusive collections to suit every interior style and budget. And if you’re a savvy shopper (who isn’t these days?), you’ll love browsing our clearance stock. As Essex & London’s largest furniture clearance outlets, we sell dining sets, tables, chairs and loads more from well-known furniture brands at seriously discounted prices. Most clearance items are half price or less!

With new stock arriving daily, there’s always a bargain to be found. And to make your shopping experience even smoother, we offer 0% APR finance options and local delivery. Furniture Outlet Stores are open 7 days a week, so you can pop in at your convenience. It’s like stepping into a real-life Pinterest board, but with actual furniture you can take home that day!

Disclaimer: Please note that we cannot be held accountable for the content found on external websites such as TikTok. Kindly use your discretion and be cautious while browsing.

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Please note that the pricing/availability information displayed in this blog article, including photos and videos, were correct at the time of sale and may be subject to change without notice.