Investing in a High Quality, Luxury Kitchen Table: Material, Design & Customization Options
When searching for the focal point of a high end kitchen, one's eye is invariably drawn to the elegant dining table anchoring the space. As both a functional and decorative piece, a luxury kitchen table merits special consideration - and a willingness to invest in quality, durability, and design.
In assessing the range of available options, discerning homeowners weigh variables such as dimensions, layouts catering to small spaces, choice of rich materials, customization potential, and long-term sustainability.
Tailoring Scale and Proportions to Kitchen Dimensions
Kitchen tables span styles and sizes, from cozy two-person bistro sets to 12-seat banquet behemoths. When introducing a high end table, first evaluate your kitchen's measurements and traffic flow to select appropriate proportions.
For compact kitchens, a standard 30-36 inch square or round pedestal table accommodates two to four without crowding workflows. Bench seating and drop leaves maximize seating in a smaller footprint. Expandable tables offer the best of both worlds, starting small but extending with integrated leaves to welcome larger gatherings.
Space-Conscious Layouts
Beyond purely dimensional considerations, high quality kitchen tables also boast clever spatial solutions. Corner banquettes exploit angled wasted space for seating. Table bases allowing chairs to tuck completely under the surface similarly optimize area usage. Mobile tables perfect for rolling aside when not in use still deliver refined style.
The Case for Standard Kitchen Table Size
While the open concept kitchen has gained popularity, many homeowners still prefer a dedicated dining area for multi-functionality as both workspace and gathering spot. Here a standard 48-60 inch table seating 6-8 adults provides an inviting hub without engulfing the room.
The Luxury of Natural Wood Kitchen Tables
Beyond practical scaling, no high end kitchen table discussion neglects examining the spectacular array of potential materials. For many design enthusiasts, rich, organic wood tops the list for its combination of beauty, durability and warmth.
Selecting the Best Hardwoods
Cherry, maple, oak, walnut - these domestic North American hardwoods have long held prized status as top choices. Their density makes them structurally sound while developing a coveted patina over generations of use. Other options like South American Ipe flaunt an incredible resistance to humidity and seasonal movement.
Solid Wood for the Ages
Solid wood cut from tree trunk into slabs or joined planks makes a refined yet unfussy statement. Compared to wood veneersoverlaying composite bases, solid wood permits gentler refinishing of surface nicks and scratches over decades. Such heirloom-quality longevity offsets often higher initial costs for discerning buyers.
Alternatives to Solid Wood Construction
For those favoring more budget-friendly options, wood veneers utilizing durable construction adhesives apply thin sheets of premium hardwoods over base materials like plywood or MDF. This engineered approach provides comparable resistance to warping while concentrating real wood on visible surfaces. Stainless steel, glass, acrylic and even outdoor concrete tables also hold appeal for specific aesthetic leanings.
Customization for Personalized Luxury
Beyond material and spatial considerations, custom-crafting a kitchen table facilitates tailoring everything to one's unique personality and needs. Numerous boutique workshops offer one-on-one design consultations, collaborating with clients before commissioning a perfect functional sculpture reflecting personal taste.
The Benefits of Made-to-Order Tables
Rather than shoehorning an off-the-rack option into their environments, homeowners work directly with artisans to realize bespoke furnishings in desired dimensions, shapes, features and finishes. This meticulous approach takes more time but rewards buyers with creative control and high-quality components built to endure years of heavy use.
Integrating Storage, Charging and Extras
Customization supports problem-solving special features like storage cubbies for tableware, drop-down cutting boards, integrated lighting, or wireless device charging. At the same time, one delights in selecting personalized details among an extensive palette of woods, stains, finishes, edge profiles, bases, even specialty inlays and metal accents.
Budgeting for Dream Tables
This elite level of service comes at a premium cost, with custom furniture often ranging from $3,000-$15,000 based on size, materials and complexity of details. Yet for those envisioning an artful, focal-point table anchoring their forever home, the chance to realize such an enduring, bespoke vision merits the investment.
Care and Maintenance: A Lifetime of Enjoyment
After pouring resources into a luxury table purchase, owners should familiarize themselves with proper care and cleaning methods per the manufacturer's instructions. Sealing untreated woods, using table pads, coasters and placemats, dusting and gentle cleaning preserve both visual appeal and functionality for this showpiece.
Establishing Care Routines
Wood tables specifically require developing maintenance routines including sealing or reapplying protective finishes around once annually. Take care to delicately hand wash wooden surfaces using mild cleaners, avoiding excessive moisture and harsh scrubbing which can damage finishes. Thorough drying and gentleness serve any table well for longevity.
Repairing and Refinishing Surfaces
Even with diligent care, daily wear inevitably exacts a toll. But rather than replacing a beloved kitchen trademark, most quality tables withstand refinishing or repairs by seasoned professionals. Touch up smaller scratches, water marks and blemishes annually. More extensive refinishing sands away layers to reveal bare wood for sparkling revival.
In many homes, kitchen tables rangily uphold family history and heritage, etched by years of holiday gatherings, homework sessions, late night snacks and loud debates. Rather than select a table purely as a utilitarian tool, approach this meaningful decision as the jewel anchoring a thoughtfully curated interior design.
Whether modern and spare or classically ornate, give this cherished piece its due. Thoughtfully evaluate space, medium, customization and budget to invest in quality imbuing function with beauty. Treat the result with care, and both tangible furnishings and intangible nostalgia will enrich for generations.