I think that my favorite moments of the holiday season are. when we get to gather around the table. A group of family and friends all sitting and sharing stories is just a dream for me. The candlelight, the laughter, the clinking of glasses…all so magical.

So. How to create a space that invites you to linger around the table to enjoy these moments? Ironically despite this post’s subject, I subscribe to the idea that the functional aspects of the space are more about the right dining chairs and lighting than the table itself. Of course taking into consideration the size and material is important to the overall feel and design scheme, but splurging on a dining table has never been something I recommend to clients. After all, the base is completely hidden by the chairs. So it really is one time where functionality fully outweighs aesthetics, especially when price engineering a room.

Here are a few tables I have recommended or used, or coveted through the years…keeping things sensible, yet still pretty of course!

This is such a chic little table for an intimate gathering. Seats 4 very comfortably and 6 if you’d like to cozy up…I also love that the style and color would allow for a variety of dining chairs.

This is honestly the formal dining table of my dreams. So classic and beautifully detailed; and really a great value (oh and in stock right now!). I would pair this with simple upholstered chairs, perhaps in an earthy green, the color of the moment).

So this one is the dining table in my formal dining room. I love the size, love the finish; it feels like a sophisticated version of a farm table to me. Happy to answer any questions about it! I will go more into what I paired with it in the next post.

I think this is such an elegant table. And the oval top encourages that no one is left out of the conversation. A very good value for a marble topped piece, and notice the detailing around the top…really beautiful and thoughtful.

I love this piece. Although I have used it most often for a desk, it is a wonderful small scale dining table as well. The base is available in brass as well and is only $350!! A complete steal and I promise it will outlive your expectations. I have had mine for 7 years and it has been a desk, an outdoor table and a dining table within my home. So chic and so versatile.

As always, message with any questions or advice needed!

xoxo,