How do I Determine Table Size?

Trying to determine what size table you need is not always easy, especially as needs change over time. One way of solving this problem is to have an extending table or alternatively, two or more smaller tables that can be pushed together when needed; or kept against the wall as a serving table etc when not. If you have the room it’s always better to acquire a larger capacity table than you will need for everyday use, because no matter what size you eventually choose it will always be too small on occasion.

So how much room does each person need around a table? As a minimum each person will need 24’’ however, this will feel cramped, 30’’ is a much better ideal to go for. In addition each person will need about 12’’ in front of him or her; this means an extra 24’’ on the length if you wish to have someone sitting at each end of the table. It is also desirable to have a section of 12’’ running the length of the table for serving dishes, drinks, glasses etc. Therefore a table for eight people, sitting two at each end and tree each side, would ideally be. 3 x 30’’ = 90’’ + 24’’ 114’’ or 9’6’’ long. Width would then be 2 x 12’’ = central 12’’ = 36’’ or 3’ So eight people will require a table of 9’6 x 3’ as a comfortable minimum or 8’ x 3’ if using the more chummy 24’’ formula. If you are going to choose a round table you must stick to 30’’ around the circumference.

But will it fit in the room? Well the table and chairs might, what we really need to know is how much extra room do people take up. To move in and out of a sitting position with a chair behind the legs requires a minimum of 36’’ to move freely requires about 45’’ and 55’’ if you or someone else uses a wheelchair.

Therefore a table for eight 9’ 6’’ x 3’’ will ideally be in a room 17’ x 10’6’’ don’t forget to add on any additional furniture in the room and allow for doorways, especially if the doors open in.
These are ideal sizes and probably it will prove difficult to accommodate all of them, I’m sure we have all enjoyed any number of good meals in less than idea situations, even in restaurants. However now that you have the formulas you will at least be able to make informed compromises.
Bon appétit