Sizing an extendable table for everyday and guests

Choose the closed size for daily life and the open size for the occasions that matter. A 120 cm table that extends to 150 cm goes from four diners to six, and a 160 cm top that opens to 200 cm takes up to eight. Measure the room with the table fully open and still allow about 75 cm behind the chairs, because that is when space is tightest.

Check whether the leaf stores inside the table or needs a cupboard of its own. On sets, match the chairs to the open size: 1+6 sets pair the table with six chairs, while 1+4+1 sets add a bench to four chairs for flexible seating.

Veneer over MDF and high pressure laminate stay stable in humid weather, which keeps the leaf and the main top lined up. Open and close the table now and then so the runners stay smooth, and wipe the joint dry after spills.

Buying guide

Extendable Dining Tables: Sizes, Seats and Clearance