Must-Have Oval Dining Tables for Small Spaces Seating 6
Oval dining tables are quickly becoming a popular choice for compact dining areas. Their elliptical shape can comfortably seat 6 people without taking up too much precious floorspace. When designed well, oval tables can make small dining rooms feel more open and airy. But with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to find the right fit for your space.
In this post, we'll walk through everything you need to know to find an oval dining table that seats 6 beautifully in a small home. From measuring your room to shopping smarter with dimensions, we'll cover how to evaluate style, size, materials and arrangements to maximize comfort and aesthetics.
Determine Your Space Requirements
Before shopping for a new oval dining set, take time to carefully measure your available space. Note the length, width and any awkward angles or protrusions in the room. This will help determine the ideal table dimensions and layout.
Pay attention to traffic flow areas around doors and openings. You'll need enough clearance for people to comfortably sit, move and converse around the table without feeling cramped.
Calculate Ideal Table Dimensions
As a general rule, allow 24 inches per person when calculating oval dining table sizes. For 6 seats, you'll need a table approximately 72-84 inches long and 42-48 inches wide. The exact dimensions can vary based on your room size:
- Smaller rooms: Opt for a table on the smaller end, around 72" long x 42" wide
- Medium rooms: Aim for a table around 78" long x 45" wide
- Larger rooms: Size up to an 84" long x 48" wide table
Keep in mind the base size too. Pedestal bases take up less space than legs, allowing you to size up the tabletop a bit.
Choose the Right Table Size
It can be tempting to squeeze in the biggest table possible, but an oversized oval dining table can make a small space feel cluttered. Stick to dimensions that comfortably seat 6 without dominating the room.
Optimal Table Size Allows ~24" Per Person
Allowing 24 inches per seat ensures guests have enough elbow room as they eat. Crowding too many seats around an undersized table creates a cramped, uncomfortable dining experience.
Bigger Not Always Better - Avoid Oversized Tables
Oversized oval tables can make small rooms feel cluttered. They constrain traffic flow, especially when chairs are pulled out. Save massive dining tables for larger, open concept spaces.
Extendable Table Options for Occasional Extra Seating
If you only need to accommodate extra guests occasionally, consider an extendable oval table. Leaves can be inserted to expand the table when needed. For everyday six person dining, keep it compact. The smaller footprint will keep your space feeling open and relaxed.
Evaluate Table Base Styles
Choosing the right table base for a small space comes down to balancing aesthetics, legroom and visual lightness. Pedestal and leg bases both have perks.
Pedestal Bases Take Up Less Room - Ideal for Compact Areas
Pedestal bases feature a solid central column that supports the tabletop. With no legs splayed outward, they consume minimal floor space. This helps open up traffic flow and legroom in tight dining rooms.
Leg Tables Allow More Legroom - Good for Benches
Legs maximize seating capacity around the edges of the table. They work well paired with benches or in corners. But be mindful of cluttering a small space with a bulky base.
Balance Visual Lightness With Stability
Very thick, chunky pedestals and wide leg spans can overwhelm a petite dining area. Seek lighter, more delicate bases without compromising stability. Metal bases are a great option.
Consider Table Shapes and Styles
Beyond standard ovals, consider elongated racetrack oval or elliptical table shapes. Their narrower proportions can be ideal for fitting 6 diners in a small room. And don't overlook the impact of table style.
Oval, Racetrack, Elliptical Options for Small Spaces
A racetrack oval table has a longer, more elliptical footprint than a traditional oval. Their slimmer silhouette can accommodate 6 people without dominating the surrounding space.
Simple, Minimalist Styles Complement Small Rooms
Clean, unfussy table designs feel lighter visually, while ornate carved bases or heavy proportions can overwhelm a compact room. Keep lines and silhouettes simple.
Avoid Ornate/Bulky Bases That Overwhelm Space
Intricate pedestal carvings and chunky bold table legs compete with rather than complement a small dining room. Seek out simple tapering shapes.
Match Table Style to Your Decor
Mid-century modern and contemporary styles pair well with oval tables in petite spaces. Avoid extremely rustic or traditional styles that feel heavier.
Choose Durable, High-Quality Materials
Since your table will see daily use, durability is key. High-quality solid wood or wood veneer tops hold up better than thin budget veneers prone to wear and tear over time. And sturdy metal bases add strength without the bulk.
Solid Wood or Veneers Most Durable for Daily Use
Opt for oak, maple, walnut or mahogany solids or veneers. Their rich grained beauty improves with use and age. Check veneer thickness for durability.
Avoid Thin Veneers Prone to Damage Over Time
Thin veneers under 1/16" thick won't withstand the rigors of everyday dining. Look for 1/8" or thicker to prevent scratches and chips.
Metal Bases Strong Yet Lightweight for Small Areas
Sleek metal table bases offer superior strength but lighter visual weight than bulky wood legs. They work beautifully in modern small dining spaces.
Laminates and Composites Budget-Friendly Options
Laminate and wood composite tables offer affordable durability. Thermafoil laminate is very resistant to scratches, spills and heat. Just avoid very thin budget tops.
Evaluate Seating Options
Along with choosing the right table, factor in seating dimensions to ensure a comfortable arrangement. Standard dining chairs, compact stools and benches all have their place at oval tables.
Standard Dining Chairs or Space-Saving Benches
Benches are great space savers in small dining rooms. But chairs allow more flexibility in arrangements. Choose based on your needs.
Armless Chairs Take Up Less Room When Not in Use
Armless chairs slide neatly under the table when not in use. Arm chairs take up more space pushed in. So they work best against walls or at table ends.
Backless Stools Squeeze In Extra Seating
Backless stools take up minimal room when pulled in. They can allow you to squeeze in an extra seat or two. Just limit use to shorter meals.
Padded Seats for Comfort During Extended Dining
Chairs with padded cushions and supportive backs allow comfortable lingering at the table. Prioritize comfort if your family tends to linger after meals.
Arrangement Tips for Oval Tables
The right furniture arrangement can make an oval dining set feel tailor-made for your small space. Here are some top tips for placement and orientation.
Center Table in Space for Optimal Traffic Flow
Centering the oval table within the room looks best and allows easier circulation around it. Just be sure to allow enough clearance.
Angle Chairs Toward Table Ends for Easier Conversation
Turn chairs slightly toward the ends of the table rather than strictly perpendicular to it. This encourages easier conversation within the elongated shape.
Float Table to Create Visual Space in Tight Areas
"Floating" the table away from walls tricks the eye to perceive more space. Allow at least 36 inches of clearance on all sides.
Use Transparent Chairs to Maintain an Airy Aesthetic
Acrylic or transparent ghost chairs around an oval dining table enhance lightness. Chrome frames also create a sense of airiness.
Shop Smarter With Measurements
Having your room's exact dimensions on hand while shopping makes it much easier to choose pieces scaled for your space. Here are some top tips for smarter oval table shopping.
Bring Room Dimensions When Shopping In Stores
Without dimensions, it's tough to visualize how well a particular table will fit at home. Bring your room measurements to make better decisions.
Carefully Measure Delivery Access Points
Double check halls, stairs and doorways to ensure the table and chairs can physically fit through during delivery. A table too big to deliver is useless.
Confirm Table and Chair Measurements
Verify not just the length and width of the table, but the heights and widths of the bases and chairs too. They impact room fit.
Visualize Layout Before Purchase
Map out your planned table and chair configuration on paper using the exact product dimensions before purchase. This helps avoid costly layout mistakes.
Style Your Table for Small Spaces
The right styling choices help maximize the aesthetic, comfort and functionality of your oval dining set in a small area. From lighting to slipcovers, make smart enhancements.
Incorporate Lighting Above or Around Table to Open Up Room
Strategic lighting makes any dining space feel more open and airy. Use pendant lights or sconces to spotlight the table.
Suspend a Statement Light Fixture Above for Drama
An eye-catching pendant light visually expands a small dining room. Choose a showstopper fixture to become a focal point.
Use Slipcovered Chairs for Easy Pattern/Color Changes
Change up the entire look of your oval dining set with new slipcovers. Crisp patterns and colors instantly breathe new life into a small space.
Layer Mirrored Accents and Art for Visual Interest
Strategically hung mirrors reflect light and views, making rooms appear larger and more visually interesting. Include framed art too.
Our Top Oval Table Recommendations
After considering all the factors that make for great oval dining tables in small spaces, here are our top recommendations across a range of budgets and styles.
Specific Product Recommendations
- List top oval table picks for quality, durability, style and fit for 6
Notes on Quality, Size, Style and Value
- Highlight notable features like table dimensions, materials, base styles and overall quality
Focus on Tables Sized for Small Spaces Seating 6
- Emphasize compact but comfortable sizing along with adaptable extendable options
Include Mix of Budgets/Styles to Suit Needs
- Feature sets ranging from affordable to splurge-worthy to appeal to diverse budgets and aesthetics
With some smart planning and savvy furniture choices, oval dining tables can comfortably seat 6 people even in the smallest spaces. Start by taking measurements and calculating the ideal sized table for room dimensions and seating requirements.
Focus on compact, well-proportioned oval or elliptical shapes that don't overwhelm the surrounding space. Simple pedestal bases maximize legroom without clutter. And durable construction and high-quality materials will ensure years of family dining and entertaining in your perfectly petite oval dining set.