Oval Dining Table

In a very rough description, an oval dining table is like a rectangle dining table that has rounded corners. 

Types

There are 2 types of variations when it comes to the shape of  oval dining tables. One is very much an oval shape, and another is not entirely oval.

The real oval shape.

Oval table with straight edges  

Difference between oval and rectangular tables

So what is the difference? With the oval table, you get to have the round element. Why is this important? For you to understand this point, you have to know that a round shaped table allows you to see everyone easily. You don't have to turn your head from side to side like when you're eating on the rectangle table. Therefore, the roundness factor helps a bit when you're dining on the oval table.

Features

Good for informal dining.

Suitable for smaller families.

Great alternative to rectangle tables. Add some curves to your kitchen decor.

The curves makes your kitchen less formal and more casual. Nothing too serious like a rigid and straight square or rectangle table.

Oval table legs tend to have more special shapes and curves. This makes them more attractive by design. Oval tables with pedestal legs in the middle are common too.

Disadvantages

You need a large area to place the oval dining table. Of course, this depends on the actual table top size. If you have a spacious dining area, you don't have to worry about this. If you live in apartments or condominiums where space can be limited, you might to worry about this.

It can be harder to find tablecloths for oval kitchen tables. You probably have to do some customization to the tablecloth. The best way to do this is to buy a tablecloth meant for rectangle tables and cut them.

Benefits

If you need to dine casually with a relatively big number of people, the table serves this purpose well.

Due to its rounded corners, the table is safe for children. The danger of bumping into those sharp corners are non-existent in ovals.

Tips

You may find that sitting at the 2 ends to be not so comfortable. Therefore, when you see an oval dining table that says it can cater up to 6 people, it can seat 4 persons at best. However, this depends on the width of the oval table. The thinner the width, the harder it is to sit at these 2 sides.

If you want, you can have the extendable oval dining table. This type of table allows you to extend the table, making it longer. How do you do this? You first extend the 2 "leaves" at both ends (left and right). Now you are left with an open space in the middle. Simply fill in the space with a butterfly top or an external table top piece. Have extra visitors? No problem. Simply extend the table.

When you buy an oval kitchen table, you have to be concerned about the sharpness of the table ends. It is advised that you go for the slightly rounded edge instead of the heavily pointed one (sharper curve) for safety reasons.

Smaller oval tables can be a great coffee or side table. You have an extra option instead of sticking to the rectangle shaped coffee table all the time.

Back to Dining Table Shapes 

Back to Dining Table Guide

Bookmark this page

Facebook Twitter Digg Delicious Stumbleupon