Make Any Small Kitchen Feel Big With a Long Skinny Table
Do you constantly bump elbows with others when trying to squeeze around your tiny kitchen table? Does lack of space prevent you from hosting dinner parties or having the whole family over for meals? If this sounds familiar, it may be time to consider outfitting your kitchen with a long skinny dining table.
Long rectangular tables are ideal space-saving solutions for petite kitchens and dining rooms. Their narrow width combined with ample length allows you to seat more people comfortably without dominating the entire room. With some clever placement and decor tricks, a long slim table can make a small kitchen feel open, airy and surprisingly spacious.
Determine If a Long Skinny Table Is Right for Your Space
Before shopping for a long narrow table, take some measurements of your available space. This will help ensure you find a table that truly fits.
Measure Your Kitchen
Grab a tape measure and jot down the accurate dimensions for your kitchen or dining area. Take width and length measurements of the whole space. Also measure any existing pieces like islands, countertops or furniture you plan to keep in place. Identify where you want to position the long skinny table within the layout.
Calculate How Much Walkway Space You Need
Consider how a long rectangular table will impact traffic flow and mobility in the kitchen. As a general rule, allow 32-36 inches of walkway space per person seated at the table. This provides comfortable elbow room while dining. Ensure there is enough space to easily enter and exit the kitchen when the table is occupied.
Choose Appropriate Table Dimensions
Armed with measurements of your space, you can zero in on a suitably sized long skinny table. The length can range quite a bit, from 4ft to 12ft long. Narrow rectangular tables are typically 37-45 inches wide. Pick dimensions that accommodate your seating needs while fitting within your spatial constraints.
Selecting the Perfect Long Skinny Table
With measurements in hand, start shopping for your ideal long narrow dining table. Keep the following aspects in mind as you choose:
Construction and Durability
A long slim dining table should be well-constructed using solid materials to prevent wobbling and warping. Opt for hardwood like oak over cheaper engineered wood, which is more prone to damage. Scrutinize the joinery connecting the legs to the tabletop. Mortise and tenon joints or dowel construction are most durable. Metal reinforcements underneath will also boost stability. For easy maintenance down the road, pick a table with a natural wood finish that can be easily sanded and refinished.
Design and Style Elements
Look for a long skinny table with a style suited to your kitchen's existing aesthetic. Simple modern designs or farmhouse styles tend to pair well in kitchen spaces. Benches and stools integrate seamlessly with a narrow table compared to bulkier chairs with arms. A trestle base or pedestal base maximizes leg room since there are no legs along the sides. A removable leaf allows expanding the table for holidays or large gatherings.
Placement Options
To make the best use of limited space, position your long rectangular table against a wall, in a corner or diagonally across a wide area. This opens up traffic flow compared to centering it in the room. Angle the table so the end seats face an open area instead of backing up against a wall. In a kitchen, place it in the dining zone beside or behind the work area. Make sure it doesn't obstruct appliances, counters or walkways.
Get the Most Out of Your Long Skinny Table
Once you've brought home the perfect slender dining table, it's time to maximize its potential. Use these tips to get the most function and flexibility from your long narrow piece.
Use It as a Multi-Purpose Piece
A long skinny kitchen table can serve many roles beyond dining. Use it as a casual breakfast spot for quick morning meals and coffee. Let it double as food prep area when cooking elaborate meals. Style it as a sleek bar area for entertaining friends. The minimalist silhouette suits various functions.
Incorporate Storage
Take advantage of the skinny footprint by tucking storage into unused spaces around and under the table. Built-in bench seating can have hidden storage compartments inside. Baskets or storage ottomans slip neatly under the length of the table. Floating shelves mounted above provide display space without taking up room on the tabletop itself.
Accommodate Traffic Flow
Carefully arrange the kitchen so high-traffic zones and frequently used items are located near the long dining table. For example, position appliances and ingredients within easy reach during meal prep. Establish clear walkways in and out of the kitchen so diners can get in and out without squeezing past others. Use lighting such as pendant lamps to help define the table space.
Enjoy an Open, Flexible Kitchen
The right long skinny dining table can instantly make a petite kitchen or dining room feel more expansive and inviting. With ample elbow room, you can host large festive dinner parties without constantly bumping into one another. When it's just immediate family, there is plenty of space to spread out homework, crafts or other projects. The slim silhouette allows smooth traffic flow so family members can grab snacks and move about easily, even while others are seated. It may be long and narrow, but a skinny dining table creates a sense of open flexibility.
Limited kitchen space doesn't have to cramp your hosting style or family dinners. Installing a long rectangular dining table is an ingenious way to maximize seating capacity without overwhelming a petite eating area. The narrow table provides ample leg and elbow room for all while opening up precious floor space. Place it strategically against a wall or corner to keep walkways clear. Sturdy construction prevents wobbling and damage over years of use. The elongated silhouette even lends itself to creative storage additions. For small kitchens dreaming of expansive appeal, a long skinny table just might be the perfect solution.
Is your tiny kitchen crying out for a long narrow table makeover? Browse our selection of high-quality tables sized to save space and seats. With the right slender dining table, you can entertain, project, dine and move with ease all in a petite area. No more cramped quarters - it's time to make even the smallest kitchen feel fabulous.