Table Size Guide
Simple rules for choosing the right size and height for coffee tables, side tables and dining tables, and how many people each size seats.
Choosing the right size makes the difference between a table that feels perfect and one that crowds the room. Use these rules of thumb together with the dimensions in each product's size table. Measure first, and mark the footprint on the floor with masking tape before you order.
How to Measure Your Space
- Measure the room. Note the length and width of the area where the table will sit.
- Measure the route. Check doorways, hallways, stairs and turns that the boxes must pass through.
- Allow for movement. Add space around the table for people to walk and sit.
- Tape it out. Mark the table size on the floor and walk around it.
Coffee Table Sizes
| Measure | Rule of thumb |
|---|---|
| Height | About the same as the sofa seat, or slightly lower |
| Length | About two thirds of the sofa length |
| Gap to sofa | Roughly 40 to 45cm so you can reach it and walk past |
| Walkway | At least 60cm clear on any side people walk through |
In a small room choose a round or oval shape, which is easier to move around. Browse round coffee tables, small coffee tables and oak coffee tables. Read the full coffee table size and height guide.
Side Table Sizes
| Use | Typical guidance |
|---|---|
| Next to a sofa | Height near the arm of the sofa, or slightly lower or higher |
| Next to a bed | Top level with the mattress or a few centimetres above |
| Narrow spaces | Choose a slim depth so it does not block the walkway |
See narrow and slim side tables, bed side tables and sofa side tables, plus the sofa side table guide.
Dining Table Sizes and Seating
Allow roughly 60cm of table edge per person for comfortable elbow room. These are typical sizes only, so check the exact figures for each product.
| Seating | Rectangular or square | Round |
|---|---|---|
| 2 people | About 70 to 80cm square | About 70 to 80cm across |
| 4 people | About 120 x 80cm or 90 x 90cm | About 100 to 110cm across |
| 6 people | About 150 to 180cm long | About 120 to 135cm across |
| 8 people | About 180 to 220cm long | Not recommended |
Extendable tables list a closed and an extended length, and they usually seat more people when extended. Compare the numbers and plan for the size you will use most often. See the extendable dining table guide.
Space Around a Dining Table
- Allow about 75 to 90cm behind each chair so people can pull it out and sit down.
- If the table sits against a wall, 60cm is the minimum, but you may lose a seat on that side.
- Dining chairs should have a seat height of about 45cm with a table height of about 75cm.
See dining tables, round dining tables and dining table and chairs sets. Our small dining table guide helps with compact spaces.
Check What Is Included
Product photos may show chairs, vases and decor that are not included. Look at the title and the size table to see exactly what comes with the product.