Having a small kitchen doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style or functionality. With some clever planning and space-saving solutions, small kitchens can be just as beautiful and practical as larger ones. The key is selecting the right kitchen table that maximizes every inch.
Choosing the Right Small Kitchen Table
When choosing a small kitchen table, you’ll want to consider a few key factors:
Size
Measure your kitchen space carefully, including any awkward corners or protrusions from cabinets or appliances. Make sure there is ample walkway around where the table will sit. Aim for at least 36 inches for main traffic areas.
The table should be in proportion with the room. A tiny table in a large kitchen will look odd and vice versa. Standard 2-4 person table sizes range between 32-42 inches wide and 30-36 inches deep. Extensions and drop-leaf features allow some flexibility for occasional larger gatherings.
Shape
Round – Great for small eat-in kitchens as they have no sharp corners to navigate around. Round tables with leaf extensions offer added flexibility.
Square – Makes efficient use of space in a corner. Allows for extra seating with two people on each side.
Rectangle – Perfect for galley style kitchens. Maximize walkway space behind chairs on the long side.
Oval or Elliptical – Soften hard edges in a small kitchen. An oval table can Angle in a corner.
Design Style
Choose a table style that complements your existing kitchen decor. Some options include:
- Farmhouse – Sturdy wood tables with turned legs and simple styling.
- Modern – Sleek glass, metal, or solid-colored tables in minimalist designs.
- Rustic – Distressed, reclaimed woods with artisan craftsmanship.
- Transitional – A blend of traditional and contemporary elements for a versatile look.
- Retro – Mid-century modern styles with curved or tapered legs and funky retro details.
- Industrial – Iron, steel, and solid wood tables with an unfinished, warehouse aesthetic.
Folding/Stowaway Designs
For extra-small kitchens, consider a folding table or one that tucks entirely out of the way.
- Drop-leaf – Hinge leaves fold down when not in use for a compact, out-of-the-way design.
- Butterfly leaf – Center leaves fold down into a slim console table profile.
- Gate-leg – Legs fold together at the center for very compact storage.
- Pub table – Small bistro height tables tuck against a wall or slide under counters.
- Wall-mounted – Brackets allow the table to fold vertically against the wall.
- Storage benches – Hollow table benches can hold table leaves when not in use.
Space-Saving Design Tips
Take advantage of every inch with these savvy small kitchen table ideas:
- Float the table away from walls for easy access from all sides.
- Use a pedestal base for open leg room rather than a table base with cross bars.
- Select chairs with vertical backs without armrests that tuck neatly under the table.
- Consider backless stools that slide entirely under the table when not in use.
- Install slim hanging pendant lights above the table to zone the space without taking up table surface.
- Opt for lightweight, mobile folding chairs that can be stored elsewhere when not in use.
- For galley kitchens, position the table to separate the kitchen from adjoining spaces while still allowing traffic flow.
- Make use of high traffic zones like near the sink or refrigerator for opportunistic meal seating.
- Multi-purpose furniture like storage ottomans or lifting coffee tables allow for part-time dining spots.
10 Creative Small Kitchen Table Ideas
- Built-In Banquette Seating Tucked-away banquettes are space saving and comfy. Built-in bench seating makes the most of unused room corners. Add plush cushions and throw pillows for cozy meals. Round out the arrangement with a pedestal table for foot room.
- Floating Shelves for Table Storage Take advantage of open air space above the table. Mount floating shelves across or around the table to act as space for table decor, lighting, or extra storage for dining accessories.
- Pub-Height Table and Stools A pub-style table pairs perfectly with bar stools for an elevated small-space solution. Look for factory-style designs with metal bases for an industrial chic aesthetic. Stools tuck neatly under when not in use.
- Multi-purpose Kitchen Island For studio-style kitchens, a movable kitchen island on casters pulls triple duty for food prep, casual dining, and extra counter space as needed. Look for an island with drop-leaf or extension features.
- Compact Bistro Set A tiny bistro set is an excellent small kitchen dining option when floor space is very limited. Opt for a metal mesh table and folding chairs for lightweight, compact stackability. Tuck into a corner or on the patio when not in use.
- Counter Height Table Seating Bar counter height table and chairs make it easy to dine and dash. Choose comfortable counter height stools that tuck under when not in use. Open up floor space with a compact rectangular or square table design.
- Bench Table Seating Get family-style cozy with shared bench seating on both sides of the table. Choose a rectangular table with storage bench seats for keeping dining linens and tableware within reach but out of sight.
- Curved Banquette Seating A curved banquette is a space-saver that invites conversation and community. Use its curve to define the dining zone. Position a round pedestal table near the banquette to take advantage of the shape.
- Rolling Kitchen Cart Table A kitchen cart on wheels easily rolls wherever you need extra surface space. Use it as an impromptu breakfast dining table, then tuck it out of the way when not serving.
- Custom Table + Window Seating Build a custom table for that hard-to-fill awkward corner spot, like near a window. Add built-in window bench seating to make the most of the space. Use removable cushions when not dining for easy transition between uses.
Style Your Small Kitchen Table
Once you’ve selected the perfect table, complete the look with easy decor updates:
- Dress it up with an elegant table runner, placemats, and cloth napkins. Layer in candles, fresh florals, or a vase of decorative greenery.
- Soften hard surfaces by hanging a pendant light low over the surface. Opt for one with a bare bulb or drum shade.
- Keep it casual with cotton throws for bench seats, accent pillows, and textured baskets for napkin and utensil storage.
- Cozy it up with a table skirt trimmed with charming fringe or pom pom edging.
- Reflect style with centerpiece items that coordinate with your decor, like stacked coffee table books, garden planters, or collected vintage items.
- Extend dining with a fold-out tray table or drop-leaf cutting board attachment. Great for casual family meals and pizza nights!
Answers to FAQs About Small Kitchen Tables
How small can my kitchen table be?
For a 2 person table, allow at least 32 inches wide by 30 inches deep. For 4 people, look for tables around 42 inches wide and 36 inches deep. Measure your space and allow ample room all around for seating and traffic flow.
What size should a kitchen table be for 4-6 people?
For a table seating 4-6 people, ideal dimensions are:
- 4 people: 40-42 inches wide x 36 inches deep
- 6 people: 48-60 inches wide x 36-42 inches deep
Can a kitchen table be against a wall?
Yes, a kitchen table will work against a wall, especially in a galley style kitchen. Allow at least 36 inches of clearance from the wall to pull chairs out and sit comfortably. Bench seating is great for maximizing space too.
What is the standard table height?
The standard kitchen table height is 30 inches tall. Standard chair seat height is 18 inches. A 36 inch tall counter height table paired with 24-25 inch bar stools is another great small kitchen option.
How much space do you need around a kitchen table?
Ideally allow 36-48 inches of clearance around all sides of the table for seating and traffic flow. Measure your space carefully and scale your table size proportionately.
Conclusion
A small kitchen can still be highly functional with the right table design tricks. Prioritize clear traffic routes, compact shapes like rounds and squares, and space-saving furniture designs. Focus on multifunctional, mobile pieces that can flex to your needs. With the right small kitchen table idea, you can maximize your tiny home dining space in chic style.
