Decorating Ideas With Gate Leg Tables

Gate leg tables can be traced to 17th century England and derive their name from their unique construction. The top of a gate leg table has a fixed section and one or two hinged sections on legs that swing open like gates to enlarge the table and closed to return the table to its more compact size. Both attractive and versatile, gate leg tables can be used in almost any room. Does this Spark an idea?

Foyer

A must have in any foyer is a spot to put things like car keys and mail. A gate leg table is the perfect choice for this job. In a large foyer it can be opened up, while in a small space you can fold it and place it against a wall. In a formal setting, cover it with a linen table cloth centered with a crystal bowl. Switch out the linen cloth for a vintage quilt topped with a wooden bowl for a country look.

Dining Room

A large gate leg table can function on its own as a dining table or provide extra seating if needed. For a formal dinner, cover both tables with linen cloths and set them with your best china, silverware and crystal. Center each with a bouquet of long stemmed roses in a crystal vase flanked by taper candles in silver candle sticks. A casual affair calls for table runners, pillar candles in pottery candle holders and bunches of dried hydrangeas in vintage crocks. If extra seating is not needed, fold up the gate leg table and position it against the wall to act as a buffet table. Decorate it as you do the main table.

Bedroom

If your bedside table is overflowing, consider changing it out for a gate leg table. Place the tables flat side against the wall and open the other section, giving you ample space for all your necessities, as well as decorative touches like a small vase of flowers and a family photograph. A lace table cloth adds a romantic touch, while a piece of burlap on the table top gives it a primitive vibe. Open the table and place it in front of a sunny window. Cover it with a tablecloth that complements the other colors in the room and place two chairs opposite each other to form an intimate breakfast nook. Wicker chairs evoke the feel of a Victorian wrap around porch, while mismatched painted kitchen chairs add a shabby chic appeal.

Family Room

A folded gate leg table placed against the back of your couch adds display space to your family room. It is the perfect place for groupings of family pictures and collections. Add candles to cast a soft glow as you watch television. Open one side of the table to provide a space to dine and create a bistro feel with silverware at the ready in pottery containers next to a pile of matching dishes and colorful napkins in a rustic basket. A simple bouquet of sunflowers adds a Tuscan feel to your functional tablescape.