Choosing the Perfect Table for a Small Kitchen

We spend most of our waking hours at home in the kitchen. It's the lively heart of home life, especially around the table. It's here that conversations flow, laughter echoes, and families share quality moments. Recognizing this, it's essential to give the kitchen the space it deserves.

But what if your kitchen is as compact as the ones in most apartments today? The solution lies in opting for a small kitchen table. Don't worry – it's not neglect; it's about being smart with space. With the right choice, your table will function perfectly both aesthetically and practically.

This article provides all the tips you need to choose the ideal table for your kitchen.

How to Pick a Small Table for Your Kitchen

• Rule number one before buying a table for your kitchen: pay attention to the available space. Ensure there's free passage even when the table is fully occupied. The table should be proportional to the space, allowing for easy movement around it and ensuring everyone can sit and stand comfortably without bumping into each other. It's recommended to leave 70 to 90 cm free around the table.
• A practical tip: stick pieces of newspaper on the floor matching the table's intended size. This helps confirm that the surrounding area remains comfortable with enough room to move.
• It may sound strange, but it's the latest trend... Chairs don't need to match or even be the same. This works wonderfully, especially for those looking to save money. You can find tables and chairs in second-hand stores or your grandma's or aunt's house. For small tables, opt for clean, minimalist chair designs to avoid overwhelming the kitchen's appearance.
• A fantastic option is considering a small island-style table, especially for those with an American-style kitchen.
• Yes, a good kitchen table can be small, stylish, and affordable. The most expensive tables aren't always the best. The key is to focus on the quality of the material used for the furniture.
• An additional tip to cut costs is to invest more in chairs than the table itself, as chairs contribute significantly to the comfort and aesthetics of your dining area.

Styles of Tables

Round Small Kitchen Table - A small round table is perfect for kitchens with a square layout and can comfortably seat 4 to 6 people. The advantage of a round table is its lack of corners, allowing extra chairs around it without sacrificing table space.

Round Table

Square Small Kitchen Table - A small square table takes up more room, making it more suitable for larger kitchens. Its corners complicate the addition of extra seating but fit neatly against the wall when not fully used.

Square Table

Rectangular Small Kitchen Table - A rectangular table is ideal for kitchens with a similar shape, complementing the surrounding design. Like square tables, it can be pushed against the wall to save space. When you want to use it fully, pull it away from the wall and bring in extra chairs from the living room or other rooms. Another tip is to opt for benches instead of chairs. When not in use, tuck them under the table...your kitchen will have 100% clear passage!

Rectangular Table

Oval Small Kitchen Table - An oval kitchen table is much like the round table, offering similar benefits. It's perfect for those with a rectangular kitchen.

Small Folding Kitchen Table - If your kitchen is truly tiny, consider a small folding table. This type can be assembled and disassembled as needed, fitting perfectly while keeping pathways clear. Another intriguing option is a retractable wall table, which leaves the space entirely open when not in use.

Tammy Rotenberg is an architect and interior designer. For questions and feedback: office@tammyrotenberg.com