Step 1: Choose Your Table Shape
When choosing your table shape, ask these questions. How much space do I have? Do I want to sit many or create a more intimate space? What is the purpose of this table?
Banquet- Offers the versatility of the traditional rectangular shape, coupled with the advantages of an oval table. Nice rounded ends are combined with straight sides to create a more formal but unique dining experience.
Clipped Corner- Like a rectangular table, but the corners are clipped off at a 45 degree angle. Another option for those wanting the perks of a rectangular table, but with a little more pizazz.
Harvest- Medium in formality, this table shape offers the comfort of smooth, rounded corners, with room for expansion. Great for areas where space is not an issue.
Octagonal- Unique and more modern in shape, offering the same advantages as a round table but with extra flair. Also perfect for game tables in a basement or man cave.
Oval- A great option for those looking for something a little more formal. Great for dining rooms, or those with traditional decorating tastes. Perfect for narrow rooms as rounded edges take up less space. Also great for those worried about little heads bumping the edges.
Rectangular- The most common and versatile table shape. A rectangular table fits almost every decorating style. Great for long, narrow areas or areas where plenty of space is available.
Round- The perfect table shape for conversation. A round table allows you to see everyone sitting at the table and a perfect solution where space is limited. Another great option for those worried about little heads bumping the edges.
Square- More modern in shape, although less formal. Great for smaller spaces and for those wanting close and intimate conversation.
Step 2: Select Your Wood Species
There isn't a wrong answer in choosing your hardwood species for your table. All of these species are exactly that, "hard wood". If they can withstand the test of time in the forest with harsh temperatures, strong winds, and any form of precipitation, any hardwood species can withstand your home or office. You should choose your wood species based on the "feel" or environment that you want to create. Choose a species based on the grain pattern that you like or choose a species that is available in the stain color you think is the most beautiful. Click here for a run down of all of the hardwood species we offer. As always, if you have questions, we are more than happy to help!
Step 3: Select Your Stain or Paint
Choosing your stain and or paint for your dining table can be a challenging task for some. When it comes to choosing your stain, you will choose the stain for the table top only, or choose the stain for the entire table; top, apron, base (legs, pedestal, trestle) etc. Choosing a fully stained table (dining top, apron and base), will allow you to add other pops of wood stains and or various wood species to your room. This option also stays in style and is easier to pair with changing room trends down the road. Because hardwoods are known for their stunning, natural graining, we do not paint any of our table tops. If you chooose to only have your table top stained, you will need to choose a paint color for your table apron and table base. This is what we call two-tone, and can give a more trendy and contemporary look to a dining table or dining set. Either way, your table or dining set will be unique to you based on your stain and/or paint choice. See stain samples here.
Step 4: Select the Size of Your Table
When it comes to choosing the correct size for your table, remember this rule of thumb: 1 person seated at the table = 24". This means that in order for someone to have plenty of space at the table, we recommend 24" per person seated. Therefore, if you want to sit 2 people on each side of the table, you would need a table that was at least 48" long (2 x 24"). If you would like 3 people seated on each side, you would need at least a 72" long table (3 x 24"). A 36" to 42" wide table is a standard width for any dining table. This allows for those seated to be able to reach in the middle or across the table when sharing dishes. When it comes to dining table height, standard dining height is anywhere between 28" and 30". Counter height is considered 36", and bar height is 42". When choosing the size of your table, keep in mind the size of your room. You want to make sure that in addition to the table length and width, you add an additonal 36" to 48" on each side for chairs to be able to be pulled out, allowing room for others to walk around the table.
Step 5: Select the Table Edge
The standard edge for most tables is the Sanded edge, also known as the Mission edge. It is slightly sanded and looks great in every application. That being said, other edge profiles are also available. Our Bevel, Bullnose, Thumbnail, and Waterfall edges are just another way to make your table more unique and one-of-a-kind. Again, there is no right answer. Whatever you like best is what you should go with. Click here to see our table edge offering. If you do not see what you are looking for, send us an email and we can help!
Step 6: Select the Table Top Thickness
The standard table top thickness we offer is 1". This size looks great using many different edge profiles, and creates a table that looks strong and sturdy. We also offer table thickness in 1.5", 2" and 3". All of these table thicknesses come standard with the table apron with the exception of the 3" thickness. This is due to the fact that once we add an apron underneath a 3" top, we lose leg room and someone seated at the table will not have enough space between the top of his/her thigh and the bottom of the table. Again the table thickness is all about personal preference. If you are looking for a table to make a "grand statement", the 2" or 3" may be the way to go! If you are looking for a more sleek design, the 1" will be perfect for your needs.
Step 7: Select the Table Sheen
The sheen of the table, is the amount of shine you would like to have on your table top. We offer #30 sheen, which is a high gloss sheen. This is a great sheen for a more formal look, and is perfect for walnut and cherry wood species. #20 sheen, is our standard sheen. This sheen offers a slight shine to the table, similar to a satin sheen. This sheen goes well with all wood species and looks. Our #10 sheen, is our low/no shine or flat look. This is the popular look of today and is great for those wood species with lighter tones, including Maple and Hickory. Once again, it is all about personal preference. Choose the sheen that best fits the look you are going for.
Step 8: Select Your Table Base
Choosing your table base can sometimes be one of the most challenging aspects of designing your table. The three base types we have to offer include: legs, pedestals (single and double), and trestles. The table base is one of the last aspects of the table design process because only certain bases are available with certain table shapes, wood species, thicknesses, etc. Based on your top option selections earlier on in the design process, our program will "filter out" the table bases based on these selections. You can then choose what legs, pedestal, or trestle you would like to complete your table design. You will notice that once you choose table base type, you will again have to choose the wood species, and paint or stain, before you can select the base style. If you need help with this, please reach out and one of our designers will gladly assist you.