How to Choose the Perfect Table for Every Room in Your Home

Tables are some of the most used—and most overlooked—pieces of furniture in a home. From dining tables where families gather, to coffee tables that anchor the living room, to console tables that welcome guests at the entryway, the right table can transform both the function and the style of a space.

At Out of the Box, we see hundreds of unique designer tables come through our showroom—from reclaimed wood dining tables sourced from luxury Aspen homes to sleek contemporary console tables and one-of-a-kind vintage coffee tables.

With so many options available, how do you choose the right one? Here are a few expert tips to help you select the perfect table for your space.

Step 1: Measure Your Space First

Before you fall in love with a table, grab a tape measure.

The biggest mistake people make when buying a table is choosing one that is either too large or too small for the room.

A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 36 inches of walking space around the table so people can move comfortably around it.

This is especially important for dining areas and living rooms where traffic flow matters. Side tables and small accent tables can be placed closer to walls or seating since they do not need as much circulation space.

Quick Tip: Use painter’s tape on the floor to outline the table dimensions before purchasing. It is an easy way to visualize how the piece will fit.

Step 2: Match the Table Shape to the Room

The shape of your table should complement the layout of the room.

Round or Square Tables

Round and square tables work beautifully in smaller or square-shaped rooms. They create a balanced feel and encourage conversation since everyone is closer together.

Round tables are also a great option for tight spaces because they eliminate sharp corners and make it easier to move around the room.

Rectangular or Oval Tables

For long or narrow rooms, rectangular and oval tables usually work best. These shapes naturally follow the proportions of the room and maximize seating capacity.

Oval tables offer a nice middle ground. They provide the length of a rectangular table but with softer edges that improve flow.

Step 3: Think About How the Table Will Be Used

Before choosing a table, think about how you actually live in your home.

Daily Living vs. Entertaining

If you frequently host dinner parties or family gatherings, an extension dining table can be incredibly useful. It allows you to keep the table compact for everyday use while expanding it when guests arrive.

Flexible Seating

Round tables are often more flexible when it comes to seating. You can usually squeeze in an extra chair when needed, making them ideal for casual entertaining.

Multi-Purpose Spaces

Many homes today have open floor plans where furniture must serve multiple roles. A large coffee table can double as a game table, while a console table can act as both décor and storage.

Step 4: Choose Materials That Fit Your Lifestyle

Tables come in a wide range of materials, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle and design aesthetic.

Solid Wood

Reclaimed and solid wood tables are timeless and extremely durable. They bring warmth and character to a room and often age beautifully over time.

At Out of the Box, many of our wood tables come from luxury homes in Aspen and Vail, giving them both quality craftsmanship and a unique story.

Metal

Metal tables provide durability and a modern feel. They work especially well in contemporary or transitional spaces.

Glass

Glass tables can make a room feel lighter and more open, which is ideal for smaller spaces or rooms where you want a modern, airy look.

Step 5: Make Sure the Height Is Comfortable

Table height plays a major role in comfort.

For dining tables, a comfortable setup usually allows about 12 inches of space between the chair seat and the tabletop.

The best way to test this is simple: sit at the table with the chair you plan to use. Make sure there is enough room for your legs under the table and that the tabletop feels comfortable relative to your elbows.

It is also helpful to check the fit for other members of the household, especially if you have taller or shorter adults living at home.

Table Guidelines by Type

Dining Tables

Dining tables should prioritize room flow and seating comfort. Round tables are especially effective in improving movement around the room.

Coffee Tables

A coffee table should generally be about two-thirds the width of your sofa and 18 to 20 inches tall, which typically aligns with the height of sofa cushions.

This proportion keeps the table accessible without overwhelming the seating area.

Console Tables

Console tables are one of the most versatile pieces of furniture you can own.

They work beautifully in entryways as a welcoming focal point, behind sofas for lighting and décor, or along walls to add style and storage.

Because they are narrow, they are ideal for areas where space is limited but design impact matters.

Discover One-of-a-Kind Tables at Out of the Box

One of the most exciting parts of visiting Out of the Box is discovering the incredible variety of tables that arrive in our showroom every week.

We carry hundreds of tables in stock, including designer dining tables, statement coffee tables, vintage console tables, unique side and end tables, and one-of-a-kind reclaimed pieces.

Each item is sourced from beautifully designed homes in Aspen and Vail, meaning you will often find high-end craftsmanship and distinctive style at exceptional value.

No two pieces are exactly alike, so when you see something you love, it is best to grab it before it is gone.

Visit Our Showroom

If you are searching for the perfect table—or simply want inspiration for your space—we would love to help.

Our team is always happy to help you find pieces that fit your home, your style, and your lifestyle.

Out of the Box is open seven days a week:

Monday – Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 4 PM

Stop in and explore our constantly changing collection of reclaimed designer furnishings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Tables

How much space should be around a dining table?

Ideally, allow 36 inches of clearance around the table so chairs can move comfortably and people can walk around the room.

What size coffee table should I choose?

A coffee table should generally be about two-thirds the width of your sofa and roughly the same height as your sofa cushions.

Are round dining tables better for small spaces?

Yes. Round tables improve room flow, eliminate sharp corners, and allow flexible seating.

What materials are best for dining tables?

Solid wood and metal are highly durable and ideal for daily use, while glass works well when you want a lighter, more modern look.