How to Design a Kitchen Table

The kitchen table is one of the most important tables in the housefamily meals, lazy weekend breakfasts and cups of tea with friends all happen around the kitchen table. If you are in the market for a new one, and want to design your own, its a good idea to consider all the elements before making a purchase, or ordering a custom-made table. Youll need to consider the size of your kitchen and your family, as well as the dcor and style of your kitchen. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Draw a small thumbnail of your kitchen from a bird's eye view, then assess the space you have for a table. Look at the most appropriate areas, then measure them to give possible dimension for the kitchen tabledont forget to leave room for chairs and the number of people you expect to be seated at the table on a regular basis.

2

Look at the space and size available, then consider which shape will fit best into this area. Small nooks can suit a small square or round table, while larger areas by a wall can support a long trestle-type tableeven a wall-mounted one. If there is space in the center of your kitchen, then perhaps the kitchen table can double as a work bench, as well.

3

Consider space constraints. Smaller kitchens may need design elements such as collapsible sides, drop-leaf table tops or even hidden extensions so the space of the table can be maximized when not in use.

4

Determine the overall style of your kitchen so it can inform the style of table you design. A modern, minimalist kitchen may suit a chrome tablecollapsible wall mounted tables suit small modern kitchens. Country style kitchens will benefit from a solid wood, simple table, with perhaps some detailing on the legs. An eclectic kind of kitchen may suit a trestle table made from recycled railway sleepers, or even an old door.

5

Consider the leg design. The simple country table utilizes four vertical legs and a cross bar for supporttwo central column legs are an option; angled legs give a more modern look; a single pedestal with an ornate base makes a chic round kitchen table.

6

Think about your materials. Wood is a popular choice, but the finish makes a big difference. Highly polished or varnished gives an elegant, classy feel, whereas a matte finish on wood is more rustic. Painted and distressed finished are the ultimate in shabby chic, or add an artsy finish by hand painting a design onto the table top. Metal and chrome finishes are popular with modern designers, as are glass tops or laminates in bold colors.

7

Sketch a rough design of your kitchen table, with the design elements chosen onto the paper. Make a list of the desired materials, the dimensions and mark out the place where the table will go on your kitchen thumbnail. Take the design to a contractor, or take it shopping to see if you can find a match.