Your Small Space’s Best Mate? It’s A Round Dining Table

It’s a common conundrum, isn’t it? That desire for a proper, grown-up dining space in a flat that feels more like a chic shoebox. Don’t panic, because we’re about to whisk you through the delightful world of round dining tables, revealing how these curved beauties can truly transform your compact living dreams into a glorious reality.

At A Glance: Round Dining Tables For Small Spaces

In this post, we’ll dive into why a round dining table is the ultimate design hero for apartments and snug homes, revealing how to make this versatile choice feel effortlessly chic and utterly ‘you’.

✅ Discover how their unique shape optimises flow and space in smaller rooms.
✅ Learn about the magic of fostering intimacy and conversation at mealtimes.
✅ Uncover smart tips for choosing the perfect size and style for your home.
✅ Get the inside scoop on how to style a round table for maximum impact.
✅ Understand how they can make a small apartment feel instantly more inviting.
✅ Find out why they’re a top choice for families and entertaining in compact spaces.
✅ Answers to common questions about selecting and living with a round dining table.

The Geometry of Genius: Why Round Tables Rule Small Spaces

When space is tighter than a pair of skinny jeans after Christmas dinner, every single centimetre counts. Rectangular tables, bless ’em, can be a bit of a bully in a small room. Those sharp corners jut out, creating visual roadblocks and making it feel like you’re constantly navigating an obstacle course. But a round dining table? Oh, it’s a stroke of genius.

“Round tables are like the cleverest guests at a party,” says Jo, Furniture Outlet’s interior stylist. “They don’t have sharp elbows or awkward angles. Their soft, continuous line allows for effortless movement around them, making a small room feel instantly more open and less cluttered. It’s pure design alchemy!”

Because they don’t have corners, you can often fit more people around a round table than a rectangular one of a similar surface area. No one gets stuck on a corner, feeling like they’ve drawn the short straw. Plus, that smooth edge means no more bruised hips when you’re dashing past to grab the remote. It’s practical, it’s pretty, and it makes your small space work harder without breaking a sweat. It’s the design equivalent of finding a tenner in an old coat pocket. Unexpected, but ace!

Circles of Conversation: Fostering Connection At Dinner

Beyond the practicalities of space, there’s a beautiful, almost magical, quality to a round dining table. It’s an absolute champion for conversation. Think about it. At a rectangular table, you’re often speaking across a long expanse, or primarily to the people directly beside you. It can feel a bit like a formal meeting, rather than a relaxed chinwag.

With a round table, everyone is equidistant. There’s no head of the table, no one is relegated to the ‘far end’. It’s an instant equaliser, encouraging lively chat and intimate moments. It’s like gathering around a campfire, where everyone is part of the story, or everyone getting a spot on the sofa during Gogglebox. Shared experience, maximum comfort. This makes it utterly brilliant for small families, singletons who love to entertain, or couples who just fancy a bit more connection during their evening meal.

“There’s something wonderfully democratic about a round table,” comments Sasha, interior design expert at Furniture Outlet. “It instantly creates a more relaxed, communal vibe. Everyone can see everyone else, making conversation flow so much more easily. It’s about building connections, not just eating dinner. Think Come Dine With Me, but with everyone genuinely getting along.”

Choosing Your Perfect Circle: Size, Style and Sensibility

So, you’re sold on the idea (high five!), but how do you pick your perfect round table? First off, measure, measure, measure! It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people get this bit wrong. Consider the size of your room and ensure there’s enough space to pull chairs out comfortably without bumping into walls or other furniture. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 90cm (approx. 3 feet) between the table edge and any wall or furniture for comfortable movement. Like trying to parallel park a double-decker bus after a few sherbets, it’s all about getting those measurements spot on.

“Don’t guestimate!” advises Jo, Furniture Outlet’s resident interiors whiz. “Get those numbers right, measure twice, buy once. And remember, while a pedestal base looks ace and maximises legroom, make sure it’s stable enough for your needs. No one wants a wobbly dinner.”

When it comes to style, the world is your oyster. For a modern, minimalist flat, a sleek glass-topped table with a simple metal base can look effortlessly chic and keep things feeling light and airy. If you’re leaning into a warmer, more rustic vibe, solid wood tables in oak or walnut bring a lovely natural warmth. And for those who love a bit of industrial edge, a concrete top with a dark metal base can be an absolute showstopper. It’s like picking your favourite contestant on Love Island. Go with your gut, but make sure they’re the right fit for your space.

Styling Your Round Table: More Than Just a Pretty Plate

Now for the fun part: making the round dining table sing in your space. This is where you really get to play and inject your personality.

Centrepiece Magic: A round table is practically begging for a stunning centrepiece. Think a beautiful vase of fresh flowers, a low-slung fruit bowl bursting with colour, or a stylish tray with candles and a small plant. Keep it low enough so it doesn’t obstruct conversation, though.

Layer Up With Linens: A beautiful tablecloth or a stylish runner (even if just a small one in the centre) can add texture and a touch of elegance. Placemats in complementary colours or textures can also elevate your dining experience.

Chair Play: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your dining chairs. While a matching set is classic, mixing and matching different styles or colours can add a quirky, lived-in feel that’s very ‘you’. Just ensure they’re all at a comfortable height for your chosen table. It’s like curating your perfect Instagram grid, a bit of mix and match can make all the difference.

Lighting Is Key: A pendant light hung directly above your round dining table can create a lovely focal point and provide essential task lighting. Warm, ambient lighting will enhance the cosy feel of your dining area. Think about dimmers for those more intimate evenings.

Art & Mirrors: Just like with any other space, artwork or a well-placed mirror on a nearby wall can draw the eye and make the room feel larger and brighter.

“Don’t just plonk the table down and think you’re done,” concludes Sasha, one of Furniture Outlet’s trusted interiors experts. “Accessorise! Layering textures and adding personal touches is what makes it feel like your space. Think about those little touches that make a house a home, like a gorgeous set of coasters or a unique salt and pepper shaker. It’s all about the details! Like Mrs. Hinch sorting out her cleaning caddy, it’s the organisation and presentation that elevates everything.”

Jeni Stone Round Dining Table & Velvet Chairs Set at Furniture Outlet

KEY TAKEAWAYS: ROUND DINING TABLES FOR SMALL SPACES

Here are the top DOs and DON’Ts for making a round dining table work wonders in your compact abode:

The DOs of Round Dining Tables For Small Spaces

• DO Measure Meticulously: Always measure your space and factor in chair movement before buying to ensure a perfect fit and flow.

• DO Prioritise Pedestal Bases: These offer maximum legroom and visual lightness, which is ace for smaller areas.

• DO Play with Centrepieces: A well-chosen, low-profile centrepiece can truly elevate the table’s aesthetic.

The DON’Ts of Round Dining Tables For Small Spaces

• DON’T Overwhelm the Space: Avoid tables that are too large for your room, they’ll negate the space-saving benefits.

• DON’T Forget About Chair Size: Bulky chairs can quickly eat into the space-saving advantages of a round table. Opt for sleek designs.

• DON’T Neglect Lighting: Relying solely on overhead ‘big’ light can create a harsh feel. Layer your lighting for ambience.

What Other Interior Design Experts Say About Round Dining Tables For Small Spaces…

On the best dining tables for small spaces:
“Round tables are a go-to. They soften the room, keep things sociable and avoid those pesky sharp corners. Drop-leaf or extendable tables are ideal if you need flexibility – perfect for everyday use with the option to expand when guests come over,” as featured in Glamour UK.

Read More: 21 best small dining tables that save space without sacrificing on style (Glamour UK)

On the versatility of round tables:
“I’m a big fan of round tables,” reveals interior decorator Catherine Branstetter, as featured in Architectural Digest. “Not only are they the best for good conversation, but they’re also great for seating as many around the table as possible, and easy to walk around.”

Read More: 9 small dining tables for equally small spaces (Architectural Digest)

On the timeless appeal and versatility of round pedestal dining tables:
“The look of a pedestal table – which really just means that there’s one single central support as opposed to a tripod setup or four legs – is simple but not boring. Plus, because they’re round and don’t have legs in the way, you can typically fit more chairs around them than you can around a square or rectangular table,” reveals Jessica Cherner, as featured in House Beautiful.

Read More: Pedestal dining tables are timeless (House Beautiful)

Round Dining Tables For Small Spaces – FAQs

Are round dining tables better than rectangular for small spaces?

Round tables are often a game-changer for smaller spaces because they don’t have sharp corners that can block pathways or make a room feel cramped. Their continuous curve allows for easier movement around them, helping to improve the flow of your room. Plus, they can often seat more people in a compact footprint compared to a rectangular table of a similar size, as there are no corners to contend with. It’s all about optimising that precious space.

What’s the best size round dining table for an apartment?

This really depends on how many people you usually need to seat and the size of your specific dining area. As a general guide:

• 2-3 people: A table with a 75-90cm (30-36 inches) diameter is often spot on.
• 3-4 people: Look for something in the 90-105cm (36-42 inches) range.
• 4-6 people: A 105-120cm (42-48 inches) diameter will usually work.

Always measure your space, including the clearance needed for chairs, to ensure a comfortable fit. You can even use masking tape on the floor to visualise the size before you buy.

How can I make a round dining table feel cosy in a small apartment?

Making it cosy is half the fun. Start with a lovely centrepiece, think a low vase of flowers, some pretty candles, or a stylish fruit bowl. Add texture with placemats or a small, round rug underneath the table to define the dining zone. Consider chairs with soft upholstery or add seat cushions for extra comfort. Warm lighting from a pendant lamp above or a nearby floor lamp will also work wonders, creating an inviting glow for those intimate meals.

What styles of round dining tables work best for modern flats?

For a modern flat, sleek and minimalist designs often shine. Think glass tops with slender metal bases, or solid wood tops with elegant pedestal legs in light oak or darker walnut. Concrete or marble effect tops can add a sophisticated, urban edge. The key is clean lines and a design that doesn’t feel overly bulky, keeping that airy, contemporary feel.

Can round dining tables be extended?

Yes, some round dining tables are available with extension mechanisms, often featuring a leaf that can be inserted into the centre to transform it into an oval shape, or sometimes butterfly leaves that fold out. These are absolutely brilliant for small spaces, as you get the benefit of a compact round table for everyday use, but can easily extend it when guests come over. It’s like having a little secret weapon for entertaining.

Your Dining Dreams, No Waiting Around!

Ready to ditch the drab and dial up the dining drama with a sensational round dining table or dining set? We thought so! Forget long waits and hefty price tags, because here at Furniture Outlet, we’re all about making that dream a reality, pronto. We’re packed to the rafters with an incredible variety of brand-new, quality dining tables & chairs. Seriously, you have to see it to believe it.

Swing by one of our Furniture Outlet stores in Charlton (South East London), Colchester, Dagenham (East London), Leigh-on-Sea or Wickford. Our doors are open 7 days a week, and you can even take your new table and chairs home the very same day. Now, isn’t that a lovely thought?

We’re a family-run business, and we’ve been at this furniture game for donkey’s years, helping folks create stylish, comfy homes without breaking the bank. Don’t just take our word for it though, happy customers have given us a smashing “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot. We’re pretty chuffed about that, actually.

Jeni 1.2m Lincoln White Stone Round Dining Table with Stainless Steel Base (£349)

Oakford 1.5m Solid Oak Round Dining Table with Black Metal Base (£799)

Stockholm 1.1m Round Dining Table with Slatted Pedestal Base, Oak Effect (£299)

Stockholm & Bari 4 Seater Dining Set (£549)
1.1m Black Round Dining Table with 4 Oatmeal Mottled Velvet Dining Chairs

Round Dining Tables Online Now – View All

(Lots More Round Dining Tables & Chairs Available In-Store)

Tino Round Dining Table at Furniture Outlet Colchester

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