At a Glance:
How to Choose the Right Dining Table Height
Did you know dining tables come in three different sizes: standard, counter height, and pub or bar height? Each type of table offers a different feel, look, and functionality for your space. In general, pub height tables feel more casual and are good for small spaces while standard tables are ideal for formal dining rooms and counter height tables offer functional prep space. How do you know which one is right for your dining room?
In this guide to choosing the right height dining table, we’ll break down the measurements for each of the three most common table heights, offer advice on when each one is best, and recommend 6 dining tables from Walker Furniture.
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Shop Dining TablesAbout Dining Table Heights
Typically, dining tables come in the three sizes, standard, counter height, and pub or bar height. Each one requires different height seating and helps to create a different atmosphere in your space. Expanding your dining table hunt to include other table sizes might offer a solution, such as opting for a pub height table in a small dining room or creating a more formal feel with a standard height table. Keep reading to find out the measurements of each type and what type of dining room each one is best for.
→ Learn more: Counter Height Table - Pros & Cons
Dining Table Height Guide
What are the measurements for each of the three most common table heights? How tall should your chairs be? You can reference the dining table and chair height guide below:
How to Choose the Right Dining Table Height
Choosing the right dining table height is essential to create a comfortable and functional dining area. The height of your dining table should complement the chairs or seating you plan to use and the overall design of the space. Here's how to choose the right dining table height:
- Measure Your Space: Before selecting a dining table, measure your dining area, taking into account any obstructions, such as walls, furniture, or other objects that might affect the placement of the table. This will help you determine the maximum dimensions for your dining table.
- Consider Your Chairs or Seating: The height of your dining table should be compatible with the chairs or seating you plan to use.
- Allow for Legroom: Ensure there is enough legroom under the table. Generally, there should be at least 12 inches of space between the seat of the chair and the underside of the table. This provides ample space for comfortable dining.
- Tabletop Thickness: Consider the thickness of the table's top. The tabletop thickness can vary, and it will affect the overall height of the table. Take this into account when choosing a table.
- Dining Style and Aesthetics: Think about the style and aesthetics of your dining area. A taller table can create a more casual, pub-like atmosphere, while a lower table provides a more traditional dining experience. Consider the overall look you want to achieve.
- User Comfort: The height of the table should be comfortable for the users. Sit at the table with the chairs you plan to use to ensure that the height feels right and that there's adequate space for your legs and knees.
- Consider Special Needs: If you have family members or guests with special needs, such as mobility issues, consider a table height that accommodates their requirements.
- Tabletop Size: Finally, consider the size of the tabletop itself. A smaller tabletop can make a tall table appear more visually balanced, while a larger tabletop might require a taller table to maintain proportion.
Standard Height Tables
➤ Pictured: Envy Dining Table
When are standard height tables best? Here is a comprehensive list of when standard height tables are best:
✓ When You Want to Create a Formal Dining Room: Traditional dining rooms with a formal setting often feature standard height dining tables. These tables create an elegant and classic atmosphere for special occasions and dinner parties.
When You Want to Spotlight Family Dining: Standard height tables are ideal for family dining, providing a comfortable and relaxed space for everyday meals with loved ones.
✓ When You Have a Large Dining Area: In spacious dining rooms, a standard height table can help fill the room and provide ample space for a larger number of guests.
✓ When You Want to Mix and Match Seating: Standard height tables are compatible with a wide range of dining chairs and seating options. You can mix and match chairs and styles to create a customized look.
✓ When You Need to Accommodate Different Age Groups: These tables are suitable for accommodating diners of various ages, from children to adults, without the need for specialized seating.
✓ When You Want More Display and Centerpiece Options: The lower height of standard tables allows for more creativity when it comes to table centerpieces and decor. You can display floral arrangements, candles, and other decorative elements with ease.
Counter Height Tables
➤ Pictured: Joanna Counter Height Dining Table
When are counter height tables best? Here is a complete list of when counter height tables are best:
✓ When You Need Extra Prep Space: Because counter height tables match the height of your kitchen countertops, they offer a natural extension of your kitchen and provide extra prep space.
✓ When You Want to Create a Casual Dining Atmosphere: Counter height tables are perfect for casual dining experiences. They create a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making them suitable for everyday meals with family or friends.
✓ When You Have a Small Dining Area: In compact dining areas or small kitchens, counter height tables can make the space feel less cramped. The taller table can also double as an extra prep space for cooking.
✓ When You Want to Entertain and Socialize: Counter height tables are conducive to socializing and entertaining. They encourage conversation and can be used for activities beyond dining, such as playing board games or working on projects. It lessens the height difference between those who are sitting and standing, which can help promote conversation.
✓ When You Want to Create An Informal Breakfast Nook: For creating a cozy breakfast nook, counter height tables are a great choice. They provide an ideal spot for quick, informal meals.
Pub and Bar Height Tables
➤ Pictured: Chic Pub Table
When are pub and bar height tables best? Here is helpful list of when pub and bar height tables are best:
✓ When You Want to Create a Casual Dining Atmosphere: Pub height tables are perfect for casual dining and entertaining. They create a relaxed, social atmosphere and are ideal for gatherings with friends and family.
✓ When You Need a Table for Your Game Room or Recreational Area: If you have a game room or a dedicated space for recreational activities like playing cards or board games, a pub height table is a great addition. It provides an ideal surface for these types of activities.
✓ When You Want to Create a Home Bar Area: Pub height tables can be placed in home bar areas as a spot for enjoying drinks and snacks. They complement the bar theme and create a cozy atmosphere.
✓ When You Have a Small Dining Area: In compact or smaller dining areas, pub height tables (like counter height tables) can help maximize vertical space and create the illusion of more room. They take up less floor space than larger, standard dining tables.
✓ When You Want to Create An Informal Breakfast Nook: Like counter height tables, pub height tables paired with bar stools create a casual and inviting breakfast nook. They provide an ideal spot for quick, informal meals and morning coffee.
✓ When You Want to Highlight the View: If you have a dining area with a view or a scenic backdrop, a pub height table allows diners to enjoy the vista at eye level.
6 Dining Tables from Walker
Keep reading for our top dining room table choice from Walker Furniture by table height.
Edge Dining Table
This standard height dining table brings in natural elements and an industrial feel with its wood top and metal base. It’s perfect for a modern or contemporary dining room design, and its standard height measurements lend itself to a more refined and sophisticated feel.
Marine Dining Table (Round)
This round standard height dining table would work well in a smaller dining area and provide seating for four people. The combination of glass and metal calls to mind a glam, industrial, or modern design. You can keep it simple with a neutral color palette or layer in other luxurious elements in the room to create a more dramatic design.
Wine Counter Height Dining Table
Shop the Wine Counter Height Dining Table
This counter height table can seat up to 10 people, so it’s a great choice for a larger dining room and for people who love to host and entertain. When it’s just your family, you can remove one or both of the two 18” leaves to create a more intimate feel. The dusky cedar finish, geometric lines of the base, and simple silhouette of the piece make it perfect for a modern or contemporary dining room design.
Spring Counter Height Dining Table
Shop the Spring Counter Height Dining Table
This counter height dining table with storage is perfect for a breakfast nook, and you could even use it as a kitchen island. It definitely has a more casual feel that is more ideal for an eat-in kitchen than a formal dining room. The marble countertop, wooden base, and family-style feel of this piece make it ideal for a farmhouse, rustic, or casual design.
Melrose Pub Table
This affordable pub height table is ideal for a small dining area, like an apartment without a designated dining room. If you’ve been looking for a dining set for two, this is a great option. The glossy marble top and sculptural metal base give it a luxurious feel and allow you to make a statement in a small space. It would work well in a modern, contemporary, or glam design.
Rum Bar Table
This bar height table is another great option for two diners. You could use it in a small dining area, game room, or den. The metal base and wood top lend themselves to a modern or contemporary dining room, and you could pair it with wood, metal, or upholstered chairs.
The height of your table can dramatically impact the feel of your dining room. If you want a more traditional or formal feel, you should opt for a standard height table, but if you want a more casual feel, a counter height or pub height table might be right for you. Ultimately, you’ll need to assess the size and style of your space to choose the right table. Whatever height you choose, Walker Furniture offers the best selection of dining tables in Las Vegas. Stop by one of our Nevada locations to browse dining room tables in person today.
Learn more: 6 Best Wood Dining Tables Perfect for Holiday Gatherings
FAQ
What is standard dining table height?
Standard dining table height is 28 to 30 inches.
What is the average height of a dining table?
Standard height dining tables measure 28 to 30 inches, counter height tables measure 36 inches, and bar height tables measure 40 to 42 inches.
Are desks and dining tables the same height?
Desks are typically similar in height to standard height dining tables, reaching around 28-30 inches.
Where to find dining tables near me?
Walker Furniture offers Las Vegas shoppers a variety of stylish and affordable dining tables whether you want a standard, counter height, or pub height table.
Why Trust Walker Furniture & Mattress?
Walker Furniture and Mattress has been providing incredible customer service and top furniture expertise to the Las Vegas area for over 67 years. This locally owned furniture store has a humble beginning as a mattress builder in the Chicago area since the 1900’s which blossomed into a booming legacy of selling furniture and mattresses. in 1973, Deanne and Oscar Alterwitz purchased Walker Furniture from original owners, Ruth and George Walker.
Walker Furniture helps Las Vegas and Henderson homeowners and renters find the best living room, dining, and bedroom furniture selections to complete their homes. Complete with mattresses, living room furniture, patio decor, and home office furniture. We invite you to see all that Walker Furniture has to offer for yourself!
Shop Dining Room Tables at Walker Furniture & Mattress
Stop by any of our 3 Las Vegas furniture locations or our Henderson, NV furniture store to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced staff can make. Or shop dining room tables online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the right height table for your dining room— whether you call us at 702-384-9300, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
Learn more: Essential Tips for Styling a Modern Dining Room