Finding a dining table that fits both your style and your limited space can be a challenge. For small homes and apartments, the struggle is real when trying to squeeze in a surface large enough for meals and entertaining. But just because your square footage is petite doesn’t mean you have to settle for an undersized table. Pedestal dining tables provide a space-saving solution that doesn’t compromise on style or function. With a slim base and rectangular surface, these adaptable tables are designed to maximize every inch. Keep reading to discover how to make the most of your small dining area with a clever pedestal table find.
Rectangular pedestal dining tables offer the versatility to suit rooms of all sizes. A slender pedestal base opens up floor space visually, allowing chairs to tuck in closely. The rectangular tabletop accommodates extra seating when you need it, yet maintains a compact footprint against a wall or in a corner. Meanwhile, adjustable leaves allow you to expand or contract the surface to your current needs. This winning combination of form and flexibility makes pedestal tables a multifunctional marvel for contemporary homes.
Clever Space-Saving Design
Pedestal Base
The defining feature of a pedestal table is its single central pedestal base. This sleek pillar supports the tabletop in place of the bulkier four legs found on typical dining tables. The absence of legs around the perimeter creates the illusion of a floating table surface. This opens up floor space visually, allowing chairs to squeeze in more closely.
The pedestal base also improves stability. With the table’s weight concentrated over one central column, there’s less chance of wobbling that can occur with spindly legged tables. This makes it ideal for smaller spaces where bumps and nudges from chairs in close quarters are inevitable.
The compact pedestal adaptation means you can comfortably fit a rectangular table even in narrow spaces. Place it at the end of a galley kitchen or tuck it into an unused corner to create a cozy breakfast nook without crowding the room.
Rectangular Shape
The rectangular tabletop shape also caters to smaller spaces. An elongated rectangle can comfortably seat more people than a round pedestal table of the same size. Positioning the length of the table against a wall makes use of the footprint efficiently. A rectangular pedestal table simply hugs the wall nicely rather than jutting out into the room like a round table would.
And while round pedestal tables have a vintage farmhouse vibe, a rectangular top provides an unexpected modern twist on the classic pedestal table look. The sleek lines lend a contemporary edge that makes a statement in your dining room.
Adjustable Length
One of the best features of pedestal tables is their adaptability. Many rectangular models include removable leaves that allow you to expand the length temporarily for additional seating. When you don’t need the extended surface area, the leaves can be stored discreetly away to maintain an intimate dining space.
Some rectangular tables even have adjustable legs. Telescoping mechanisms allow you to customize the exact dimensions to your room. Another space-saving trick is choosing a drop leaf table, where hinged flaps lift up to widen the top when required.
This flexibility means you can use the table every day in its smaller contracted size. But for special occasions when you’re entertaining guests, the table seamlessly transforms into a larger surface area to accommodate extra place settings.
Material and Style Options
Rectangular pedestal dining tables come in a spectrum of materials, colors, and design aesthetics to coordinate with your decor. Consider the overall style you want to achieve when selecting materials and finishes.
Wood Tables
A natural wood pedestal dining table brings warmth and texture to a space. Stained wood surfaces in tones from dark walnut to light oak exude cozy rustic vibes. They pair nicely with wooden chairs for a harmonious look. But wood tables can also take on modern flair, like with bleached Scandanavian-style whitewashed finishes.
Opt for solid wood over veneers for the most durable and visually appealing grain patterns in your pedestal table. And because wood can dent, select a hardwood like oak or maple for high-traffic dining rooms.
The natural beauty of a wooden pedestal table creates an inviting backdrop for casual family meals and holiday gatherings alike.
Metal and Glass
For a sleek, contemporary style, consider a metal and glass dining pedestal table. The mix of materials embodies minimalist elegance. A gleaming glass tabletop provides a lightweight, airy feel that maintains visibility of the floor below. This prevents a small space from feeling cramped.
Meanwhile, metallic bases like brass, silver, or black steel provide eye-catching contrast. A sculptural gold base pedestal, for example, makes a glamorous style statement. Mixing a wooden tabletop with a metal base meshes rustic and modern aesthetics.
The streamlined silhouette of a glass and metal pedestal table complements both mid-century and industrial interiors. The materials are easy to clean and maintain, making them family-friendly as well.
Perfect for Small Spaces
With their space-saving credentials, pedestal dining tables are primed for petite homes and apartments. Here are some of the best small space spots to place your rectangular pedestal table.
Small Homes and Apartments
For studio, loft, and one-bedroom apartment dwellers, a full dining set with a table and chairs can overwhelm the room. Pedestal tables are scaled down to squeeze into condos, studios, and other pint-sized dining rooms. The compact footprint still leaves walking room around the table.
In your apartment, the pedestal table pulls double duty. Use it as an impromptu work desk or laptop station when you’re not eating meals there. The smooth, flat surface is perfect as office space. Just add a comfortable chair and decorativeaccents like plants to create your mode.
The adaptability and sleek style make pedestal tables a perfect pick for first apartments. You can easily use the table in future homes as your space needs evolve.
Cozy Breakfast Nooks
Carve out a petite dining zone in any underutilized space with a pedestal table. Tucked into the corner of an open concept kitchen or placed by a sunny window, the table immediately creates a cozy spot. Add two chairs for an intimate breakfast nook where you can start your morning over coffee and the paper.
The compact rectangular pedestal shape fits seamlessly into narrow breakfast nooks. Pull up a chair on the end or across the longer side of the table depending on the space. Floating the table on an area rug helps define the space.
Galley Kitchen Spots
For galley style kitchens, the space between counters leaves little room for a table and chairs. But a narrow rectangular pedestal table can often be squeezed into the footprint against the wall or kitchen island. This opens up the pathway, unlike a table with bulky legs sticking out.
Although galley kitchens lack a proper dining area, a pedestal table carves out space for quick family meals. The table tucks out of the way when you need the counter space. Add complementary stools for pull-up seating that slides neatly under the table.
Things to Consider When Buying
Ready to shop for the perfect small pedestal dining table? Keep these tips in mind to help guide your purchase decision.
Measure the Space
First, break out the measuring tape to get the exact dimensions of your dining area space. This will immediately narrow down your size options to ensure the table and chairs physically fit. Remember to measure not just width but length to get the full footprint.
Be sure to account for extra space needed to pull chairs out from the table without hitting walls or cabinets. Leave at least 36-48 inches of clearance for comfortable access.
Match Your Style
Consider the overall aesthetic you want for the room when choosing a finish and style. Painted wood surfaces in light colors like white or cream open up small spaces compared to dark heavy wood. Glass tops similarly reflect light to make the room feel airier.
The dining table offers a chance to set the mood in your home. A reclaimed wood industrial table invites lively family gatherings, while a polished modern glass table sets a refined tone for impressive dinners.
Quality and Budget
In general, solid wood or metal pedestal tables offer the most heft and durability. Check underneath for stability and sturdy hardware. Since dimensions are compact, you can often invest more per square foot compared to larger tables.
Set a budget beforehand and measure the quality against pricing options. Tables from mass retailers provide affordable convenience, but may lack the quality of local craftsmen and custom makers that can become heirlooms.
At first glance, fitting a dining table into a modestly sized abode may seem impossible. But rectangular pedestal tables expand your options with space-saving dimensions perfect for small homes. A few smart design tweaks like the slender pedestal base, adaptable leaves, and elongated shape make these tables ideal for tiny spaces without sacrificing style.
The right pedestal dining table makes mealtimes feel special, no matter how compact your dining room. With the variety of sizes, materials and design aesthetics available, you can find the perfect pedestal table to suit your needs. Use these clever tables to make the most of your small dining space for years of memorable meals to come.