Are you torn between a small table that fits your family’s daily needs and a large one that fits your occasional hosting needs? An extendable dining table can offer a solution to this dilemma. When you have guests, you can insert a leaf to expand your table, and when they’re gone, you can adjust it back to a smaller size. This ingenious design gives you the flexibility and freedom you need, and you can find extendable dining tables in every material, so you can get creative while getting crafty. Whether you want to create a light and airy farmhouse dining room or a retro mid century modern look, you can find an extendable dining table to suit your space.
In this dining room table style guide, we’re discussing different types of dining room tables and who they’re best for as we highlight the benefits of an extendable dining table, and offer tips on how to style your dining room based on your favorite aesthetic before looking at adaptable dining table designs in popular styles.
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Whatever the occasion, Liddiard Home Furnishings has a table style to make every meal memorable.
Shop Dining TablesTypes of Dining Room Tables and Who They’re Best For
As you shop for a dining room table, you’ll want to consider the size, shape, and material of prospect tables. Consider the vibe you want your space to have, whether that is casual or formal, cozy or dramatic. But, regardless of what you have in mind, the first thing you’ll need to do is to determine whether your table fits into your favorite design aesthetic.
Here are the most common types of dining room tables and who they’re best for (CLICK ➕THE TO LEARN MORE):
➕Rectangular Tables
Rectangular tables are the most common and versatile shape, suitable for various dining room sizes. The table shape accommodates more guests and is best for larger households or those who frequently entertain guests.
➕Extendable Tables
These tables can be adjusted to provide additional seating when needed. Extendable tables either have a central section that collapses into itself for discreet storage or leaves that can be added or removed. Homeowners who want flexibility in seating and larger dining settings for gatherings and events while maintaining a more compact size for everyday use benefit from this table design.
➕Round Tables
Round tables are great for smaller dining rooms and encourage conversation as everyone is facing each other. They come in various sizes to accommodate different numbers of people.
➕Oval Tables
Similar to round tables, oval tables provide a good compromise between the intimacy of a round table and the space efficiency of a rectangular table. Homeowners who like the round table aesthetic but need a bit more elbow room are encouraged to try this table shape.
➕Square Tables
Square tables are less common but can be a stylish choice for smaller dining areas. They work well for seating four people.
➕Drop-Leaf Tables
A drop leaf table has hinged sections on either side that can be folded down when not in use, making it space-efficient and versatile. This is a great table design for dining spaces with limited room as well as apartment dwellers who occasionally need extra seating.
➕Single Pedestal Tables
Instead of four legs, single pedestal tables have a central pedestal that supports the tabletop. This design helps create a more open feel and makes it easier to seat a larger number of people. Since there are no legs obstructing the flow below the tabletop, this table arrangement can fit up six or even eight diners, depending on the size. We recommend this type of table for dining where conversation is encouraged.
➕Double Pedestal Tables
Similar to single pedestal tables, but with two pedestals for added stability and support, especially in larger tables. Typically, we recommend double pedestal tables for formal dining spaces in larger dining rooms.
➕Glass Tables
These tables feature a glass tabletop, often paired with metal or wooden bases. Glass tables create a modern and airy feel in the dining room. Because the transparency of glass creates an open feel, glass tables are suitable for smaller spaces.
➕Counter-Height Tables & Bar-Height Tables
Pub style tables are higher than standard dining tables, providing a more casual and pub-like atmosphere. They are often paired with bar stools. Individuals who prefer a more casual and pub-like atmosphere will like this design, as well as homeowners with open floor plans where the dining area is integrated with other spaces.
Standard rectangular tables, extendable tables, oval tables, and farmhouse tables are some of the best dining tables for families. On the other hand, round, square, and drop-leaf tables are ideal for small spaces. An expanding dining room table is arguably the most versatile option, which is why they’re a popular choice for homeowners looking to find the balance between function and style.
Benefits of an Extendable Dining Table
If you love to host on the weekends or if your home is your family’s go-to spot for holiday dinners, an extendable dining table might be the right table for you. You want to have space for everyone to gather, but that doesn’t mean you need that big of a table 24/7. An adjustable dining table allows you to insert a leaf to expand the table when guests are coming or remove it for the day-to-day. When the leaf is removed, you have more space to move around your dining room.
Here are some of the major benefits of choosing an extendable dining table with leaf:
| Benefit | Why It Matters | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Adaptability | One of the primary benefits of an extendable dining table is its adaptability. It can be adjusted to different sizes by adding or removing extension leaves. This versatility allows you to accommodate varying numbers of guests, making it ideal for both everyday use and special occasions. | ||
| Space Efficiency | Extendable tables are space-efficient, especially in smaller dining areas. When not in use at full extension, they take up less space, providing a more open and uncluttered feel to the room. | ||
| Flexibility for Gatherings | For larger gatherings or dinner parties, the table can be expanded to comfortably seat more people. This is particularly useful during holidays, celebrations, or when hosting friends and family. | ||
| Cost-Effective | Instead of investing in two separate tables for different occasions (a small one for everyday use and a large one for entertaining), an extendable table provides a cost-effective solution. It eliminates the need for additional furniture, saving both money and space. | ||
| Versatility in Room Layout | The ability to adjust the size of the table makes it easier to experiment with different room layouts. You can create more space when needed or maintain a cozier setting for smaller gatherings. | ||
| Suitable for Different Room Sizes | Whether you have a spacious dining room or a compact dinette, an extendable table can be tailored to fit the available space. This adaptability makes it a suitable option for various room sizes and layouts. | ||
| Enhanced Functionality | The functionality of an extendable table goes beyond dining. It can be used as a workspace, a place for board games, or other activities. The flexibility of the table makes it a multi-functional piece of furniture. | ||
How to Style Your Dining Room
Check out these tips for styling a dining room with an extendable table in three popular styles: farmhouse, modern, and mid century modern.
Farmhouse Dining Room
To create a cozy farmhouse dining room, choose a farmhouse-style dining table and chairs with a rustic and well-worn look. Consider wooden benches for a casual and inviting feel. And it’s important to embrace natural materials like reclaimed wood, distressed finishes, and wrought iron. Incorporate these elements in furniture, decor, and lighting.
When it comes to choosing colors, opt for a neutral palette with whites, creams, and earthy tones. This creates a warm and cozy atmosphere typical of farmhouse style. For extra farmhouse texture, add vintage or antique decor items such as mason jars, distressed signs, or old farmhouse tools. These elements contribute to the nostalgic charm of the farmhouse aesthetic. Patterned textiles like gingham, plaids, and florals for table linens, chair cushions, or curtains also work well in this type of space.
Modern Dining Room
To create a simple and sleek modern dining room, choose clean lines and simple shapes for furniture. Opt for a modern dining table and chairs with smooth surfaces and minimal ornamentation, especially ones made of metal, glass, or acrylic. Channel a monochromatic color scheme with neutral tones like white, black, and gray, as well as occasional pops of bold color as accents. For maximum cohesion, look for metal and glass elements in a table base, chair legs, or even the light fixtures that work with your accent colors.
Mid Century Modern Dining Room
To create a fun and funky mid century modern dining room, look for quintessential mid-century modern furniture pieces, such as a rectangular dining table with tapered legs (or even hairpin legs) and chairs with clean lines. Integrate bold and vibrant colors such as mustard yellow, teal, or orange, particularly in accent furniture and decor. Warm woods like teak or walnut for furniture help capture that retro feel, especially when complemented by sculptural décor with interesting geometry or abstract designs.
7 Extendable Dining Tables for Every Design Style
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look at how to apply these style rules. Here are our top extendable dining tables that are as stylish as they are functional.
Millennium by Ashley Dellbeck Brown Dining Extension Table
This modern expandable dining table from Siganture Design by Ashley has a Japandi feel to it with its simple silhouette, geometric lines, dark stain, and four-post trestle base. It features two removable extension leaves, seating up to eight when both leaves are inserted. One of buyers’ favorite characteristics of this table is that it’s narrower than a standard dining table, making it ideal for dining spaces with limited space.
⭐Featured Millennium by Ashley Dellbeck Review:
“We have limited space in the dining area of our house and were looking for a dining table that was narrow in width but standard in length. This table fit the bill perfectly. It was very easy to assemble and was well packaged. Table is very sturdy and nice looking. It is a solid wood table that was wire brushed along the grain to give the wood a more rustic look. Very pleased with the table.”
Signature Design by Ashley Bolanburg Antique White/Brown Extension Dining Table
This farmhouse expandable dining table makes a statement with its two-tone finish and double-pedestal base. The weathered gray top and antiqued white base make it perfect for a warm and rustic farmhouse or shabby chic dining room design. It features a removable center leaf that can seat up to 10 when the leaf is in place.
Aspenhome Asher Bungalow Brown Dining Table
Shop This Aspenhome Butterfly Leaf Dining Table
This expandable wood dining table is a timeless piece with a simple, minimalistic style. With its tapered legs and wood tone, it fits right into a mid century modern dining room, but you could also use it in a minimal modern design. This is a butterfly leaf dining table, which means the leaf folds in half and stores inside the table when not in use, so there’s wondering where to store the 18” leaf when it’s not being used. At a maximum of 84” wide (7’), this large extendable table can seat up to eight when it’s fully extended, making it great for large families and spacious dining rooms.
Aspenhome Blakely Sable Brown Dining Table
Shop This Aspenhome Extendable Dining Table
This expandable round dining table is perfect for a smaller dining room. With its simple silhouette and slightly curving legs, it aces the transitional dining room design. It features an 18” leaf so that the table is 48” when closed, seating four, and 66” when open to make room for six diners. If you love the style but want to seat more people, there is a larger rectangular version as well.
Liberty Furniture Magnolia Manor Weathered Brown Rectangular Table with Antique White Legs
Shop This Liberty Furniture Extendable Dining Table
This antique-style table with leaf is perfect for a country, shabby chic, or farmhouse dining room design. We love the intricate detail of the carved legs and how the simple tabletop balances it out. It features a removable 18” leaf, expanding seating options from four to six. And since it’s from Liberty Furniture, quality is served at every dining occasion.
Signature Design by Ashley Valebeck White/Brown Dining Room Table
Shop This Signature Design by Ashley Extendable Dining Table
This wood and white expandable table combines a rustic tabletop with a white base along with metal accents to create the perfect farmhouse dining table. It features a drop leaf that increases your seating capacity from six to eight, making it a great choice for medium and large dining rooms. Pair its trestle base with other vintage-inspired details for a truly charming dining setting.
⭐Featured Signature Design by Ashley Valebeck Review:
“The table looks better than expected when setup in our house. The thick table top and legs make it appear like a much more expensive piece of furniture than it really is. We haven't bought chairs for it yet but are thinking about going with the metal / industrial style chairs to complete the look we're after. We are very happy with our purchase.”
Signature Design by Ashley Lyncott Brown Dining Extension Table
Shop This Signature Design by Ashley Extendable Dining Table
This mid century modern expandable dining table checks all the boxes: simple silhouette, warm wood tone, and angled lines. It features a self-storing butterfly leaf, embracing mid century modern’s penchant for functionality. The leaf increases your seating capacity for up to six, making this an ideal extendable dining table for small dining spaces.
If you’ve been looking for a convenient way to get more seating into your dining room without making it feel crowded, an extendable dining table is a great option. You can find extendable dining tables in different sizes, materials, and design styles. Whether you want to create a farmhouse, modern, or mid century modern dining room, you can find the best selection of extendable dining tables in Toole, UT at Liddiard Home Furnishings.
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For over 65 years, Liddiard Home Furnishings has been providing Utah with premium home furnishings. This family-owned business has worked to deliver a better kind of shopping experience to the greater Salt Lake City area. Whether it’s the carefully laid out showroom or the outstanding customer service, when you shop at Liddiard’s, you’ll feel like family. The team at Liddiard has crafted a catalog full of incredible products made by brands with reputations for quality. Shop online or visit our showroom to discover what makes Liddiard Home Furnishings so unique.
Shop Extendable Tables at Liddiard Home Furnishings
For the home furnishings you need, visit Liddiard Home Furnishings in Tooele, UT. You’ll find the best prices when you shop dining room furniture online. Check out Liddiard reviews, and if you have questions, our friendly product experts are always happy to help you explore all our extendable dining table styles — whether you call us at 435-882-0964 or use our online chat feature. Visit our Tooele showroom today!
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